2027 Economist

The Aerospace Corporation•Chantilly, VA

6d•$125,000 - $140,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Economic and Market Analysis Center (EMAC) at The Aerospace Corporation seeks an early-career research economist with a strong empirical background in applied microeconomics and/or industrial organization. EMAC conducts economic research for civil and national security space communities, working with U.S. government officials to investigate empirical questions about the future of the space sector. Its research supports understanding market dynamics, designing regulatory frameworks, assessing supply chain vulnerabilities, and strengthening the space industrial base. The economist will conduct applied research on economic issues related to the space sector, build econometric models, and develop sector-specific expertise. Research may span industrial organization, labor, policy evaluation, network analysis, forecasting, and trade. The position is full-time and based in Chantilly, Virginia. Applicants must submit a cover letter, CV, letters of reference, job market paper, and transcripts. The application deadline is November 27, 2026; virtual interviews are expected to begin around mid-December. The Aerospace Corporation is a nonprofit federally funded research and development center that provides technical expertise and analysis to the U.S. space enterprise, with a commitment to objective and rigorous analysis. The position offers an annual grade-based salary range of $125,000 to $140,000. Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required for clearance eligibility.

Requirements

Recent or anticipated 2027 Ph.D. in economics or a closely related field, pursued or conferred within the last 12 months.
Demonstrated ability to conduct independent empirical research.
0–1 year of industry experience.
Proficiency in statistical software such as R, Python, STATA, or MATLAB.
Excellent writing skills, including the ability to communicate complex quantitative findings to non-technical audiences.
Excellent presentation skills, including the ability to give clear, concise, and persuasive presentations to senior government officials.
Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
Transcripts are required.

Nice To Haves

Specific research expertise in causal inference, industrial organization models, network analysis, and/or supply chain modeling.
Research experience in defense economics or economics of the space industry.
Active TS/SCI clearance.
Prior knowledge of the commercial space sector.
A broad range of research interests and methods.

Responsibilities

Conduct quantitative research and write reports on economic questions related to the space sector.
Design and implement econometric models of commercial space markets, supply chains, and government policies.
Provide timely analysis and input on emerging economic developments affecting government customers.
Build relationships with government customers and identify new research opportunities.
Collaborate with colleagues across Aerospace on cross-cutting research questions.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) plan with company-paid contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service, plus matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs
Education assistance programs
Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect