Economic Analyst

Job Summary. Region 1 Planning Council is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Economic Analyst to support strategic initiatives tied to infrastructure, economic vitality, and regional growth. This role will support the Economic Development District and cross-sector partners to administer development activities, manage grants, and interpret economic data to inform investment decisions.
Illustrative Essential Job Functions. The duties listed below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work of this position.
Economic Development
• Conduct demographic analysis and industry analysis to contribute to industrial development.
• Contributes to the regional planning process, including but not limited to identifying and gathering data for regional planning frameworks, particularly the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)
• Develop benchmarking criteria and monitor the progress of R1’s Economic Development District against peer regions.
• Conduct comparative analysis across jurisdictions to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement.
• Assist in the implementation of economic development strategies by analyzing and translating economic, demographic, and labor statistics into actionable insights for feasibility studies, grants, and investment strategies.
Research
• Utilizes quantitative and qualitative research methodology.
• Assists in maintaining key economic and demographic datasets, and researching and identifying additional datasets to be tracked to inform internal decision-making and benefit R1 clients and partners as needed.
Governmental Affairs
• Attends meetings, events, and other engagements representing R1.
Supervision Received. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Economic Development Principal.
Supervision Exercised. No current supervisory responsibilities; however, may be required to supervise staff as the organization grows.
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Education, Training, Experience
Graduation from an accredited institution with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Urban Planning, Business, Public Administration, or related field, and 1-2 years of relative experience. A satisfactory equivalent combination of experience and training which ensures the ability to perform the work may be considered.
Job-Specific Skills. Critical knowledge and fundamental skills required for the position, include:
• Ability to prepare written reports and presentations in a clear, straightforward and engaging manner.
• Quantitative and qualitative economic and general research methodology, including extensive familiarity of economic development and government data sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Bureau of Economic Analysis, etc.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (especially Excel). Proficiency with ArcGIS, economic impact modeling, and statistical analytic programs are strongly preferred.
• Statistical analysis and synthesis of large amounts of information in a clear, ordered manner that is usable for a variety of audiences.
• Strong writing skills, including editing, oversight or preparation of technical reports and the presentation of information to government entities and various R1 committees and clients.
• Knowledge of the theory, principles, and techniques of economic development, including regional economic development planning.
• Ability to understand and perform in high-profile, sensitive, or controversial situations.
• Organization and management of complex projects
• Strong public speaking and interpersonal communication skills
Working Conditions and Special Demands
Work is performed primarily in an office session, sitting at a desk and operating a personal computer. Work may require attending meetings and may involve travel throughout the region. Work may include occasional field inventory and data collection as needed.
Frequently
• Sit
• Use hands to finger, handle, or feel
• Reach with hands and arms
• Speak and hear
Occasionally
• Stand
• Walk
• Climb or balance
• Stoop, kneel, or crouch
• Lift up to 25 pounds
Necessary Special Requirements.
• Possession of a valid Illinois driver’s license
• Insured, personal vehicle for business use; business-related mileage reimbursement available
• Drug screening and background check
• Annual completion of Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act training
Region 1 Planning Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer