Who Do We Hire?

Depending on recruiting needs, the Bureau could have vacancies for economists, statisticians, IT specialists, and some administrative professionals. Our staff works on a variety of projects that involve the production of many crucial economic indicators such as the unemployment report, consumer price index, and Occupational Outlook Handbook.

To check for vacancies for the positions described below, locate job announcements at Job Openings in Washington DC and in our Regional Offices.

Economists in the BLS are responsible for the review, collection and/or compilation of data from either primary or secondary sources. Data is reviewed for accuracy and consistency at which time an analysis of the findings is prepared. Results of the analysis may be in the form of internal reports, press release, or a portion of an article for publication.
Typical duties may include:

• planning and conducting surveys to collect economic data
• analyzing and interpreting data
• preparing reports on economic trends and activities
• briefing the news media, industry, labor, and Federal and State governments about economic trends
• assisting in the development and application of computer software
• reviewing specialized methods, tools, and analysis, and techniques for quantifying, measuring, and understanding economic relationships
• writing and editing articles, reports, and other communications published by the BLS.

Information Technology Specialists analyze, design, implement and maintain computer systems to support the Bureau's many statistical surveys. In all stages of planning, design, and implementation, computer specialists work closely with economists and statisticians. BLS uses state-of-the art hardware and software computing and communications technologies to collect, process, and distribute data. Computer programming languages include Visual Basic, Powerbuilder, Visual C++, C, SAS and Java. Database management systems include Sybase and Microsoft Access. Operating systems include Microsoft Windows, Windows NT and UNIX. BLS uses an Object Oriented (OO) methodology for systems development

Mathematical Statisticians are primarily responsible for assuring the statistical integrity of the sample survey estimates. As a result, many positions offer opportunities in the design of large-scale sample surveys, and some positions involve research into new techniques for sample design and estimation. In planning and designing sample surveys, professionals work closely with economists and computer specialists regarding program objectives, survey design, and systems development.

Mathematical Statisticians perform work involving the development and adaptation of mathematical statistical theory and methodology for a wide variety of statistical investigations. They investigate and evaluate the applicability, efficiency, and accuracy of the theory and methods used by subject-matter specialists or other statisticians in various statistical programs and studies. Typical duties may include:

• developing and refining sampling frames
• defining and implementing the sample
• survey design
• measuring the quality of the data collected and improving the data collection and processing procedures
• deriving or selecting appropriate estimation procedures and preparing written systems requirements
• evaluating the results of surveys with respect to sample design and accuracy
• researching and developing statistical measures and procedures to improve BLS surveys
• serving as statistical consultants for the economic analysts of the Bureau.

Other Career Opportunities at BLS

While Economists, Computer Specialists and Mathematical Statisticians are the primary positions in which BLS recruits, listed below are a list of other job opportunities.

• Accountants design, install and operate the Bureaus' accounting systems; prepare and analyze financial statements, records and reports; and examine accounts to ensure appropriate expenditure of the Bureaus funds.
• Budget Analysts work in any or all phases of the budget review and approval process, including analyzing existing or proposed legislation for fiscal implications. Budget analysts may study work programs to suggest changes for more effective and economical operations.
• Personnel Management Specialists are concerned with the acquisition, retention, motivation, development and use of the human resources of the organization. It is an integral part of total management. Occupational areas of human resources include Operations/ Hiring, Recruitment, Training and Development, Equal Employment Opportunity, Organizational Planning and Automation. Specialists also formulate and implement personnel policies that enable the Bureau to carry out its mission most effectively.
• Program/ Management Analysts compile data and information, and assist senior staff specialists with review and preparation of regulatory documents. BLS analysts work with regulatory documents to ensure consistency and that all significant issues are addressed.
• Secretaries manage daily front desk operations including greeting visitors and answering telephone calls and inquiries. They also prepare correspondence and other government forms; establish and maintain files; and perform a variety of secretarial duties as assigned: travel and conference arrangements, maintenance of supervisor's schedule, timely submission of progress reports.

Last Modified Date: October 12, 2004