Economists held about 21,500 jobs in 2014. The industries that employed the most economists were as follows:
Federal government, excluding postal service
21%
Management, scientific, and technical consulting services
18
State and local government, excluding education and hospitals
15
Scientific research and development services
15
Finance and insurance
5
Economists typically work independently in an office. However, many economists collaborate with other economists and statisticians, sometimes working on teams. Some economists work from home, and others may be required to travel as part of their job or to attend conferences.
Some economists combine a full-time job in universities or businesses with part-time consulting work.
Work Schedules
Most economists work full time. Some work under pressure of deadlines and tight schedules that may require overtime hours. About 1 out of 4 economists worked more than 40 hours per week in 2014.