2027 Economist

The Aerospace Corporation•Chantilly, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Economic and Market Analysis Center (EMAC) at The Aerospace Corporation seeks an early-career Ph.D. 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. Its applied economists and financial analysts work closely with U.S. government officials on empirical questions concerning the future of the space sector. Research supports government agencies in 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 role is based in Chantilly, Virginia, and requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government TS/SCI security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain clearance. Applicants must submit a cover letter, CV, letters of reference, job market paper, and transcripts. Applications are due November 27, 2026, with virtual interviews expected to begin around mid-December.

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 issued by the U.S. government; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain clearance.
Transcripts are required.
Applicants must submit a cover letter, CV, letters of reference, and job market paper.

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.
A broad range of research interests and methods.
Prior knowledge of the commercial space sector.

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 a company-paid benefit 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.