Economics Research Intern

McKinsey; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The McKinsey Global Institute in San Jose invites you to join the Client Capabilities Network as a 12-month full-time intern focused on economics research and data analytics. You will work closely with analysts, client service teams, and thought leaders to drive client impact.

You will collect and analyze data with Excel, Python, and other tools, uncover actionable insights, and contribute to scalable analytics assets while learning McKinsey’s methodologies and global trends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in economics or currently pursuing one.
• Strong understanding of global and regional economic trends.
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to retrieve, synthesize, and present complex information effectively.
• Proficiency in conducting research using web‑based sources and electronic databases.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel; familiarity with Python is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct economic research to drive client impact and support the research agenda of the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI).
• Collect, prepare, and analyze economic data using Excel, Python, and other data preparation platforms.
• Develop scalable economic analytics tools and contribute to client projects and research initiatives.
• Collaborate with analysts, client service teams, and thought leaders in the San Jose office.

Skills

Excel

Data analysis

Economic research

Synthesis

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in economics

Tools

Python

Job description

You will work closely with analysts, client service teams, and thought leaders to collect, prepare, and deploy economics-focused data analytics.

Do you want to do work that matters, alongside supportive leaders who will help you grow faster than you ever thought possible? Are you a creative problem-solver who is energized by challenges? You’ve come to the right place.

YOUR IMPACT

You will conduct economic research to drive client impact, support the research agenda of the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI), and help build scalable economic analytics tools. Your work will involve collecting and analyzing economic data using tools such as Excel, Python, and other data preparation platforms. You will uncover actionable insights that support client projects and research initiatives. Additionally, you will master McKinsey’s research methodologies, terminology, and problem-solving approaches, while deepening your knowledge of core information sources, the firm’s Client Capabilities Network, and global economic trends. Your work offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that shapes global decision-making and to develop a strong foundation for a career in economics, consulting, or data analytics. You will join our San Jose office as part of the Client Capabilities Network for the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI). This global network is dedicated to delivering exceptional client impact through innovative assets and expertise. Founded in 1990, MGI serves as McKinsey’s independent economics research arm. Its mission is to achieve breakthrough microeconomic understanding of today’s most pressing global macroeconomic issues and to generate insights that influence the decisions of corporate leaders and policymakers worldwide. As part of this team, you will work in a collaborative, innovative environment alongside some of the brightest minds in economics and business. This internship is a 12-month, full-time opportunity designed for students or early-career professionals eager to take the next step in their professional journey. You will have the opportunity to work on research that shapes global decision-making, gain hands‑on experience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, and collaborate with a team that values innovation and impact. Your work offers a unique chance to grow your skills, contribute to meaningful work, and build a strong foundation for your career.

YOUR GROWTH

Driving lasting impact and building long-term capabilities with our clients is not easy work. You are the kind of person who thrives in a high performance/high reward culture - doing hard things, picking yourself up when you stumble, and having the resilience to try another way forward. In return for your drive, determination, and curiosity, we'll provide the resources, mentorship, and opportunities you need to become a stronger leader faster than you ever thought possible. Your colleagues—at all levels—will invest deeply in your development, just as much as they invest in delivering exceptional results for clients. Every day, you'll receive apprenticeship, coaching, and exposure that will accelerate your growth in ways you won’t find anywhere else. When you join us, you will have:

• Continuous learning:Our learning and apprenticeship culture, backed by structured programs, is all about helping you grow while creating an environment where feedback is clear, actionable, and focused on your development. The real magic happens when you take the input from others to heart and embrace the fast‑paced learning experience, owning your journey.
• A voice that matters:From day one, we value your ideas and contributions. You’ll make a tangible impact by offering innovative ideas and practical solutions, all while upholding our unwavering commitment to ethics and integrity. We not only encourage diverse perspectives, but they are critical in driving us toward the best possible outcomes.
• Global community:With colleagues across 65+ countries and over 100 different nationalities, our firm’s diversity fuels creativity and helps us come up with the best solutions for our clients. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from exceptional colleagues with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• World‑class benefits:On top of a competitive salary (based on your location, experience, and skills), we provide a comprehensive benefits package to enable holistic well‑being for you and your family.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• Bachelor’s degree in economics or currently pursuing one
• Strong interest in and understanding of economic concepts and trends at global and regional levels
• Exceptional analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to retrieve, synthesize, and present complex information effectively
• Proficiency in conducting research using web‑based sources and electronic databases
• Advanced proficiency in Excel; familiarity with Python is a plus
• Strong orientation toward customer service, collaboration, and proactive initiative
• Fluent level language skills in written and verbal English and Spanish

FOR U.S. APPLICANTS: McKinsey & Company is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

FOR NON-U.S. APPLICANTS: McKinsey & Company is an Equal Opportunity employer. For additional details regarding our global EEO policy and diversity initiatives, please visit our McKinsey Careers and Diversity & Inclusion sites.