Economist

Victorian Government; Melbourne; Hybrid; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Essential Services Commission is seeking Economists to support its Economics and Insights function. The roles involve economic research and data analysis to inform regulatory decisions, including energy markets, with hybrid work arrangements and a fixed-term contract. Two positions are available: twelve months and eight months.

Work location is 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne. The team will analyse large datasets using R, synthesize insights for policy development, and communicate findings to

Qualifications

• Experience conducting economic research and data analysis to inform regulatory work.
• Ability to synthesise data, research and evidence to support policy and regulatory projects.
• Experience communicating complex findings clearly to stakeholders.
• Experience coordinating analytical work and managing multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct economic research and analysis to support regulatory decisions and outcomes for Victorian consumers.
• Analyse large and complex datasets using R and other analytical tools.
• Synthesize insights from data, research and evidence to inform regulatory projects.
• Coordinate analytical work and communicate findings clearly to stakeholders.
• Contribute ideas to improve how data and insights are used and presented.

Skills

Economic research

Data analysis

R

Regulatory context

Tools

R

Job description

Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs

Reference: 12766

About us

The Essential Services Commission is Victoria’s independent economic regulator of essential services supplied by a range of industries. The commission’s functions include:

• making regulatory decisions with respect to prescribed industries (including price determinations, licensing, customer protection and access disputes).
• undertaking reviews and providing advice to Ministers on a range of economic and regulatory matters.
• administering the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.

About the roles

The Economist plays a key role in supporting the commission’s Economics and Insights function by using economic research and data analysis to inform its regulatory work. The role contributes to better outcomes for Victorian consumers and the effective regulation of energy markets.

There are two positions available. Both are fixed term. One is for twelve-months, the other is eight months.

The work location for this position is 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, with hybrid work arrangements available.

Key accountabilities

• Conduct economic research and analysis to support regulatory decisions and positive outcomes for Victorian consumers.
• Analyse large and complex datasets using R and other analytical tools.
• Bring together data, research and evidence to synthesise insights that support policy and regulatory projects.
• Coordinate analytical work and communicate complex findings clearly to stakeholders.
• Contribute ideas, share knowledge and identify opportunities to improve how data and insights are used and presented.

Please refer to the attached position description for the principal functions and key selection criteria.

For further information about the role, please contactJames Owen, Manager, Economics & Insights at [e-mail]

Our commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive and flexible workplace

Be part of a highly respected and professional organisation that allows you to apply your knowledge while supporting flexible working arrangements that allow you to balance work and life. You’ll be working in a dynamic and collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.

We are Equal Employment Opportunity employer with inclusive leaders committed to driving a workplace culture that prioritises equity, safety, respect, and flexibility for all staff. We uphold the principles of Aboriginal self-determination in caring for our community.

We welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of any age, gender identity, parental/carer status, ability, religion, or cultural backgrounds.

If you require any adjustments to equitably participate in the recruitment process, or need an alternative format to any of the application material, please contact [e-mail] for support.

Other relevant information

Applicants must have corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period to be appointed to this role. Ongoing positions are only available to Australian/New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents.

Preferred applicants are required to undergo mandatory pre-employment screening, which includes a national criminal history check, right to work verification, qualification checks, statutory declaration disclosing any previous misconduct investigations and declaration of private interests.

Applications close Monday 26 October 2026 at 11.59pm