Government Economic Service Assistant Economist Graduate Scheme

Do you want to build a brilliant and meaningful career as an economist, working on some of the UK's most important issues? Then apply to our Assistant Economist Graduate Scheme!

As an Assistant Economist, you will have the opportunity to influence how the government responds to the most important public policy topics of the day. You could find yourself collating and analysing data, providing advice on policy options, and preparing vital briefings for ministers.

There are so many benefits to working in government. Here are just a few:

• Meaningful work that that makes a difference to society
• Wide range of government departments across the UK
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Adaptable working
• 25 days annual leave (+8 public holidays)
• Generous pension scheme
• Inclusive working environment

Who is eligible?

To be eligible, you need to have, or be on track to receive, a first or upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in economics, or a postgraduate degree in economics.

By August 2025, you must hold one of the following:

• An economics degree
• A joint economics degree in which least 50% of the course modules studied are in economics
• A postgraduate degree in economics

All candidates must have studied both micro and macroeconomics to qualify.

If you graduated more than five years ago then you must give examples of how you have maintained your economic knowledge in the relevant section of the application form.

Join our online Q&A session

We will be hosting a virtual Q&A session where you will be able to hear from some of our current Assistant Economists and ask any questions you may have about the role and recruitment process. This will take place on Tuesday 11 February, 16:30-17:30 and joining details are on the application webpage.

"I have worked on issues ranging from children and poverty to pensions and welfare. In the Climate Change Committee, our advice affects everything from the vehicles we drive and the food we eat, to the places we work and live.”

Ramesh, Economist, The Climate Change Committee