Principal Economist

Bank of Canada; Vancouver; Hybrid; CAD 124,000 - 147,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading central bank as a Principal Economist, where you will engage in economic analysis and research to support monetary policy. You will work closely with regional offices to gather intelligence, conduct research, and prepare reports. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in economics or finance, excellent communication skills, and the ability to analyze complex data. The role offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Defined-benefit pension plan

Comprehensive benefits

Relocation assistance

High flexibility for work-life balance

Qualifications

• Master’s in economics or finance with at least 5 years of experience.
• PhD in economics or finance with at least 2 years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead economic analysis using qualitative findings and statistical methods.
• Conduct econometric analysis on current economic conditions.
• Prepare briefing notes for leadership.

Skills

Economics

Data Analysis

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Master’s in Economics or Finance

PhD in Economics or Finance

Tools

Econometric Tools

Statistical Tools

Job description

Join to apply for the Principal Economist role at Bank of Canada.

The Bank of Canada has a vision to be a leading central bank—dynamic, engaged, and trusted—committed to a better Canada. No other employer in the country offers you the unique opportunity to work at the very center of Canada’s economy, in an organization with significant impact on the economic and financial well-being of all Canadians. You will be challenged, energized, and motivated to excel in our environment.

Building on the principles that have always guided us – excellence, integrity, and respect – we strive to be forward-looking and innovative, welcoming diverse perspectives and talents, and earning trust by living up to our commitments and clearly explaining our policies and actions.

With our defined-benefit pension plan, benefits, and high flexibility for work-life balance, find out more about why we are ranked as one of Canada's top employers: Working Here - Bank of Canada.

Find out more about the next steps in our recruitment process.

Did you know? Our regional offices are crucial for gathering intelligence from Canadian businesses and households, which informs monetary policy and helps us respond to shocks like pandemics or trade wars, ultimately benefiting Canadians.

What You Will Do

The Canadian Economic Analysis Department (CEA) supports the Bank’s monetary policy through economic analysis and research. The Survey and Economic Intelligence Division (SEID) works from regional offices to engage with Canadians through surveys and consultations, such as the Business Outlook Survey, Business Leaders' Pulse, and the Canadian Survey of Consumer Expectations. Using this intelligence, SEID conducts research to support monetary policymaking and maintains a network of contacts across sectors to gather timely economic information.

Under the direction of the Regional Director (Economics) of British Columbia and the Yukon, you will:

1. Help assess information needs and design survey methodologies.
2. Lead economic analysis using qualitative findings and statistical methods on survey data.
3. Conduct econometric analysis on current economic conditions and undertake research projects.
4. Monitor macroeconomic and microeconomic trends and prepare briefing notes for leadership.
5. Lead business interviews with senior executives in BC and the Yukon.
6. Build relationships with external parties for knowledge sharing.
7. Support communication activities to explain Bank policies.
8. Collaborate with colleagues and support a culture of transparency and excellence.

What You Need To Succeed

• Strong understanding of micro- and macroeconomics and monetary policy.
• Experience in analyzing economic developments and preparing written reports.
• Ability to interpret complex data and use statistical or programming tools.
• Excellent communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Effective organizational skills under pressure.
• Teamwork experience within and across departments.

Nice-to-Have

• Experience designing surveys and analyzing microdata.
• Advanced knowledge of econometric tools.
• Innovative problem-solving skills.
• Network of contacts in BC or Yukon.

Education and Experience

• Master’s in economics or finance with at least 5 years of related experience, or
• PhD in economics or finance with at least 2 years of related experience, or
• Equivalent education and experience.

Language Requirement

The work environment supports both English and French. Proficiency in one is essential; proficiency in both is encouraged.

Additional Information

• Priority to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
• Security clearance to obtain Reliability status.
• Relocation assistance may be available.
• Most employees telework part of the month, with on-site presence required at least eight days monthly.
• Salary ranges from CA$124,279 to CA$146,211, with performance incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits and pension plan.