City Economist

City of Albuquerque•Albuquerque, NM

About The Position

Forecast, monitor, and report on City revenues. Develop, coordinate, and participate in programs for collecting, researching, analyzing, and interpreting economic, financial, and statistical data; advise on City financial policies and goals; monitor and report on the local economy; and serve as the main point of contact for City departments and individuals requiring economic data and analysis. The position supports the City’s financial management through revenue forecasting, budget and capital planning, analysis of fiscal impacts, and communication of economic and financial information to City officials and other audiences. The role includes developing and maintaining econometric revenue forecasting models and financial databases, with particular emphasis on General Fund resources and five-year estimates. It also involves researching tax distributions and applicable laws, working with state and federal agencies, supporting bond programs and presentations, and providing consultation and technical assistance to City staff. The description notes that listed duties are general and may not include every task performed.

Requirements

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in economics, statistics, or a related field.
Five years of experience in public finance, economic analysis, and/or econometric forecasting.
Four years of direct supervisory experience.
Ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

PhD in Economics preferred.

Responsibilities

Initiate, design, oversee, coordinate, and conduct economic research and analysis, including collecting and interpreting economic, financial, and statistical data.
Establish schedules and methods for providing economic and financial data and analysis services, and implement related policies and procedures.
Develop expertise in State Gross Receipts Tax revenue received by the City, research distribution anomalies, obtain relevant training, and build professional contacts at the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department.
Consult with the state as new revenue estimates are developed.
Research City resolutions, ordinances, state statutes, and federal laws that may affect City revenue.
Project City financial resources to support revenue and expenditure policy, the annual operating budget, five-year financial estimates, capital planning and budgeting, and debt issuance.
Apprise City officials of resource constraints and advise them on options.
Study historical trends and monitor local and national economic trends for revenue forecasting.
Interpret economic and financial data for City fiscal management, highlight issues, make recommendations to elected officials as needed, and respond to City Council staff concerns.
Develop, oversee, coordinate, and maintain a program for estimating and monitoring City resources over a five-year period, including creating and maintaining econometric revenue forecasting models for major revenues, especially General Fund resources.
Develop financial and economic databases, document revenue sources, develop and estimate methodology, and work with departmental fiscal staff to improve estimating capabilities and revenue accountability.
Provide assistance and consultation to professional and technical personnel in City departments conducting economic research, financial analysis, and statistical activities.
Analyze resource allocations to identify needs or excess; review and recommend action on proposed City, State, and Federal legislation; and evaluate program organization and reporting procedures.
Complete forms and questionnaires for national organizations and State government.
Maintain liaison and working relationships with Federal and State agencies, private employers, organizations, and professionals involved in economic and financial data, tax research, forecasting, and revenue estimation.
Present and explain economic and financial information and research results to City Council members and public and private groups.
Establish, evaluate, and interpret technical materials, economic publications, research studies, and regulations for management staff and subordinates.
Oversee and participate in City bond programs; forecast resources and prepare and present information on the City’s economy and finances for disclosure documents and bond-rating presentations.
Oversee and participate in fiscal impact analyses, including analyses using computer-based models, and provide staff training and technical assistance.
Update and maintain revenue data in the City’s financial systems, currently PeopleSoft and Hyperion.
Maintain awareness of developments in economic and financial analysis and incorporate them into programs as appropriate.
Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.