Principal Economist

Strategy & Innovation; Southwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 128,000 - 138,000; Full time

Job summary

A government regulator in Western Australia is seeking a Principal Economist to steer electricity market regulation during the energy transition. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in economics, excellent stakeholder engagement skills, and the ability to lead complex projects. This role involves deep economic analysis and collaboration with various stakeholders to shape effective regulations. The position offers a competitive salary and an inclusive work culture.

Benefits

12% employer contributed superannuation

Flexible working arrangements

Generous leave entitlements

Paid Parental Leave

Professional Development opportunities

Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualifications in economics or a related field.
• Strong background in microeconomics and competition.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Analyse market behaviour and provide public guidance.
• Lead complex regulatory projects and provide recommendations.
• Mentor economists and analysts.
• Influence strategic discussions with stakeholders.

Skills

Strong background in microeconomics

Excellent communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Project leadership

Education

Tertiary qualifications in economics or related field

Job description

Principal Economist Position No : ERA21011 Division : Energy Markets Level / Salary : Level 7, $139,860 to $149,485 pa, PSCSA 2024 + 12% super Work Type : Permanent - Full Time Location : Perth, Metropolitan Closing Date : 2026-01-08 3 : 00 PM Attachments : -

The Economic Regulation Authority (ERA) is Western Australia’s independent regulator of electricity, gas, water and rail. Our purpose is to benefit all Western Australians by promoting strong economic outcomes through effective regulation and decision making. Our work is challenging, complex and sensitive; we strive to make sure current and future consumers pay no more than necessary for safe and reliable utilities.

The ERA has a strong workplace culture of innovation, working with integrity, striving for excellence, and capability building. Our people are from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds, intelligent, passionate and committed, and provide a supportive, collaborative, and collegiate team operating environment.

To find out more about the Economic Regulation Authority please visit our website .

What is the Role?

The ERA is looking for a sharp, strategic economist to help steer the regulation of Western Australia’s electricity markets through the energy transition. In this role, you’ll apply deep economic expertise to real-world regulatory challenges: analysing market behaviour; providing public guidance to prohibit market manipulation and non‑compliant market offers; guiding rule changes; testing the validity of market monitoring tools; and advising on market design in a rapidly changing energy landscape.

You’ll lead complex, high‑impact projects, provide evidence‑based recommendations to decision makers, and mentor highly engaged economists and analysts. You’ll also work closely with industry and government stakeholders, influence strategic discussions, and represent the ERA in various forums.

If you thrive on deep economic analysis, enjoy solving complex regulatory problems, and want your work to shape the future of the energy transition, come join us.

What you’ll bring

• Tertiary qualifications in economics or a related field.
• Strong background in microeconomics and competition, as well as skills and experience in regulatory, policy or market frameworks.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects.

Workplace Diversity & Inclusion

We are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to cultivating a workplace that embraces diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness. We actively support building a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our community.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities. This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disabilities, and individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Employee Benefits

• 12% employer contributed superannuation into a fund of your choice.
• Flexible working arrangements, including working from home.
• Generous leave entitlements which include 4 weeks annual leave, 3 public service holidays each year, accrued long service leave every 7 years and an option to purchase additional leave each year. Access to cultural leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• Paid Parental Leave, up to 18 weeks paid and additional 34 weeks unpaid.
• Reproductive Health Leave up to 5 additional days of paid leave per year.
• Professional Development opportunities and Study leave / assistance
• Perth CBD location across the road from Perth train station
• Employee Assistance Program counselling sessions with qualified psychologists.

How to Apply?

Applications must be submitted via JobsWA. Select the ‘Apply for Job’ button, follow the instructions and provide the following documents :

• comprehensive CV tailored to the position that clearly outlines your skills, experience, and key achievements, including the contact details of two referees, preferably one being your current / most recent line manager; and
• a cover letter (maximum 3 pages) addressing all position competencies outlined in the Job Description Form (JDF) to demonstrate your skills and experience.

All position competencies listed in the JDF will be assessed during the selection process. For guidance on structuring your cover letter, please refer to the Application Assistance Pack.

Ensure you allow plenty of time to lodge your application. Late, pro forma and / or emailed applications will not be accepted.

Need assistance with your application?

We are dedicated to ensuring an inclusive, supportive, and barrier‑free recruitment experience and workplace. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please inform us. All information provided will be treated as private and confidential, and used solely to facilitate reasonable adjustments.

Closing Date: 8 January 2026 3pm (AWST).

Want to know more about the role?

Refer to the Job Description Form (JDF) for more information, including the position competencies and organisational context.

Subsequent Vacancies

This selection process will initially be used to fill the above vacancy. Applicants assessed as suitable during this selection process may be appointed within a twelve‑month period to similar vacancies that may be permanent or contract, including fixed‑term appointments with the possibility of extension or subsequent permanency.

Please note we may use external recruitment consultants to assist with the recruitment process.