UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE (UI) RESEARCH ECONOMIST

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE (UI) RESEARCH ECONOMIST

Company: State of Illinois - Department of Employment Security

Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Full Time, Salaried

Category: Government & Public Sector - Data & Analytics / Management & Leadership / Science & Research

Date Posted: May 12, 2026

Closing Date: May 27, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead comprehensive research projects and policy studies focused on Unemployment Insurance (UI) statistics and forecasting for the State of Illinois, leveraging advanced econometric modeling and data survey techniques.

• Serve as a statewide subject matter expert and resource for the application and interpretation of UI data, contributing directly to state government policy planning and decision-making.

• Direct and mentor a small team of subordinate staff, overseeing the organization, development, and review of critical UI statistical analysis and forecasting activities.

• Drive innovation in research workflows by modernizing legacy reporting systems through the automation of data analysis and forecasting processes using statistical software and programming languages.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Public Service Administrator, indicating a significant level of responsibility and leadership within a governmental agency. The "Skill Option: Economist" and detailed requirements point towards a highly specialized role focused on data-driven policy support, rather than a typical corporate revenue or sales operations function. The emphasis on UI statistics and forecasting firmly places this within a public sector economic research domain.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct and lead complex policy studies of a mathematical nature, focusing on Unemployment Insurance (UI) statistics, trends, and forecasting models.

• Utilize and develop multivariate and time-series predictive and forecasting models using statistical software such as Stata, EViews, SAS, R, SQL, or Python.

• Manage and direct a team of analysts, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations to ensure high-quality research output and efficient workflow management.

• Serve as a primary point of contact and expert resource for internal and external stakeholders seeking insights and analysis on UI data and economic forecasts.

• Stay current with advancements in UI legislation, labor economics, and statistical methodologies to ensure the application of best practices and cutting-edge techniques in research and analysis.

• Coordinate the development and production of various reports, information systems, and policy recommendations based on rigorous data analysis.

• Prepare and deliver compelling presentations of complex data and research findings to senior management, policymakers, and external stakeholders.

• Perform other assigned duties that contribute to the mission of the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and its Economic Information & Analysis Division.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities are heavily weighted towards economic research, statistical modeling, and policy analysis within the context of unemployment insurance. This differs from standard operational roles which typically focus on sales processes, CRM management, or revenue forecasting for a commercial entity. The supervisory aspect is also a key differentiator.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Master's degree in Economics or a closely related field (e.g., Statistics, Policy Studies, Sociology, Computer Science).

• Minimum of 18 graduate-level credit hours in Economics, Statistics, and/or Research Methods.

Experience:

• A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public or business organization.

• At least three (3) years of professional experience using statistical software and/or languages such as Stata, EViews, SAS, R, SQL, or Python.

• Demonstrated experience applying research methods and statistical techniques to the analysis and interpretation of economic data.

• Three (3) or more years of professional experience conducting economic research, defining forecasting models, and modernizing research workflows is preferred.

• Two (2) or more years of professional experience preparing reports and presenting complex data to senior management and external stakeholders is preferred.

• Three (3) or more years of experience writing statistical code to automate data workflows and modernize legacy reporting systems is preferred.

• Three (3) or more years of experience specifically analyzing unemployment insurance (UI) data or macroeconomic labor force statistics is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in econometric modeling and statistical analysis techniques.

• Expertise in statistical software and programming languages (e.g., Stata, EViews, SAS, R, SQL, Python).

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills for data interpretation and problem-solving.

• Excellent organizational and project management abilities to lead complex research initiatives.

• Effective leadership and team management skills, including experience in directing and training subordinate staff.

• Proficiency in developing and executing multivariate and time-series predictive and forecasting models.

• Ability to design and implement research methodologies and data survey techniques.

Preferred Skills:

• Deep understanding of Unemployment Insurance (UI) law, data, and labor market dynamics.

• Experience in modernizing legacy reporting systems and automating data workflows.

• Proven ability to translate complex statistical findings into actionable policy recommendations.

• Experience in public administration or government research environments.

• Demonstrated success in preparing and delivering presentations to executive-level stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong academic and practical background in economics and statistics, with a clear preference for candidates with experience in labor market analysis and UI data. This aligns with the specialized nature of the role within a government agency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated experience in designing and executing complex research projects, showcasing a structured approach from problem definition to final analysis and reporting.

• Examples of statistical models developed, particularly multivariate and time-series forecasting models, with clear explanations of methodology and application.

• Case studies illustrating the use of statistical software (e.g., R, Python, Stata, SAS) for data analysis, automation, and reporting.

• Evidence of policy analysis or study contributions, highlighting how research findings informed decision-making or policy development.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of research protocols or methodologies employed for conducting economic studies.

• Documentation of statistical analysis processes, including data cleaning, model validation, and interpretation steps.

• Workflow designs for the development and production of regular reports or information systems related to economic data.

• Evidence of process improvement initiatives within a research or analytical context.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a traditional "operations portfolio" might focus on CRM optimization or sales enablement processes, this role's portfolio requirements will center on research methodologies, statistical modeling projects, and the impact of economic analysis on policy. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their analytical rigor and ability to translate data into actionable insights.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Anticipated starting salary of $8,281 - $10,000 monthly. This translates to an annual salary of approximately $99,372 - $120,000.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans for employees and dependents.

• Retirement Plans: Robust pension program offering a secure retirement future.

• Flexible Work Options: "Flexible jobs" are mentioned, suggesting potential for some schedule adaptability within the on-site requirement.

• Paid Time Off: Standard state employee benefits typically include vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement.

• Life Insurance: State-provided life insurance coverage.

• Other Benefits: Potential for dental, vision, and other ancillary insurance options.

Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (37.5 hours per week).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided monthly. For comparison and context, it has been converted to an annual range. The benefits package is typical for state government employment, emphasizing long-term stability and comprehensive coverage, which is a significant draw for public sector roles. The mention of "flexible jobs" is noted but the primary work arrangement is on-site.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government & Public Sector, specifically focused on Labor Market Information, Employment Services, and Unemployment Insurance administration.

Company Size: The State of Illinois employs a vast number of individuals across numerous agencies. The Department of Employment Security (IDES) is a significant agency within this structure.

Founded: The State of Illinois was founded in 1818, and its government agencies have evolved over centuries. The Department of Employment Security has a long history of serving Illinois workers and employers.

Team Structure:

• This role is within the Economic Information & Analysis Division of the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).

• The Research Economist will serve as a full-line supervisor, directing a small team of subordinate staff.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Utilizes advanced statistical software and econometric modeling techniques to analyze large datasets, identify trends, and generate actionable insights regarding the labor market and unemployment insurance.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Focuses on modernizing research workflows, automating data analysis processes, and improving the efficiency of reporting and forecasting systems.

• Automation & Efficiency: Employs programming languages (R, Python, SQL) to automate repetitive tasks, enhance data processing capabilities, and ensure the accuracy and timeliness of research outputs.

Company Website: https://www.illinois.gov/ides/

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is rooted in public service, emphasizing compassion, equity, and dedication to improving the lives of Illinois residents. The operations within this context are geared towards serving the public interest, informing policy, and administering essential programs efficiently and effectively.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level administrative and research position, equivalent to a Public Service Administrator with a specialized focus as an Economist. It involves significant responsibility for leading research initiatives and managing personnel.

Reporting Structure: The UI Research Economist will report to a higher-level manager within the Economic Information & Analysis Division and will directly supervise a team of subordinate staff.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts statewide policy planning and decision-making by providing critical data analysis, research findings, and forecasts related to unemployment insurance and the labor market. This information guides resource allocation, program development, and legislative considerations for the state.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher-level management or administrative roles within IDES or other state government agencies, overseeing broader research divisions or policy initiatives.

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in labor economics, UI policy, and advanced statistical modeling, becoming a recognized authority in the field.

• Cross-Agency Collaboration: Opportunities to engage in high-profile projects and initiatives that involve collaboration with various state and federal agencies, enhancing professional network and visibility.

• Continuous Learning: Access to professional development resources, training, and potentially opportunities to attend conferences or pursue further certifications in economics or data science.

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth in this public sector role is typically characterized by progression through administrative ranks and increasing responsibility for policy influence and program oversight, rather than rapid advancement or a typical corporate ladder.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based at the IDES headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. This is an on-site role within a government office building.

Office Location(s): 115 S LaSalle St, Chicago, Illinois, 60603. This is a central downtown Chicago location.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is within a professional government office environment, likely involving cubicles or private offices for administrative staff.

• Access to standard office technology, including computers, network infrastructure, and relevant software applications for data analysis and communication.

• Opportunities for collaboration with colleagues within the Economic Information & Analysis Division and other departments through meetings and project work.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. While the role is on-site, the mention of "flexible jobs" might imply some flexibility in scheduling within core business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is formal and structured, characteristic of a government agency. Collaboration will be professional and focused on achieving departmental objectives.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Applications will be screened based on the minimum and preferred qualifications, with a strong emphasis on detailed resumes/CVs.

• Skills Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a written exercise or case study demonstrating their economic research, statistical modeling, and data analysis skills, potentially focusing on UI data or related labor market scenarios.

• Interviews: Typically involves multiple rounds, including interviews with hiring managers, potential peers, and senior leadership. Expect questions focusing on:

  • Technical expertise in econometrics, statistical software, and forecasting.
  • Leadership and supervisory experience.
  • Problem-solving abilities and approach to complex research challenges.
  • Understanding of public policy and government operations.
  • Communication and presentation skills.

• Background Check: A standard Illinois State Police background check is required.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Highlight specific projects where your research or analysis directly influenced policy decisions, program improvements, or strategic planning. Quantify impact whenever possible (e.g., "analysis led to a X% improvement in forecast accuracy," or "research informed the reallocation of Y resources").

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include examples of code (e.g., R scripts, Python notebooks, SQL queries) demonstrating your ability to automate processes, conduct complex analyses, and build models. Ensure code is well-commented and clearly explains the logic.

• Detail Methodologies: For each project, clearly articulate the research question, the data sources used, the statistical methods or models applied, and the key findings and conclusions.

• Demonstrate Leadership: If possible, include examples of projects where you led a team, mentored junior analysts, or managed project timelines and deliverables.

• Tailor to Government Context: Emphasize experience with public data, policy analysis, and working within government or public sector frameworks, if applicable.

Challenge Preparation:

• Economic Theory & Application: Be prepared to discuss economic principles, particularly in labor economics and unemployment insurance, and how they apply to real-world scenarios.

• Statistical Modeling: Review common forecasting techniques (e.g., ARIMA, regression analysis, time-series decomposition) and be ready to explain their strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate use cases.

• Data Interpretation: Practice explaining complex statistical outputs and their implications in clear, concise language for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Policy Analysis: Think about how economic data and research can inform public policy decisions. Consider current labor market trends and potential policy responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a strong resume and likely a portfolio that showcases technical skills and research impact. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not just their analytical capabilities but also their leadership potential and understanding of public service.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Statistical Software & Languages: Stata, EViews, SAS, R, Python (including libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, Statsmodels).

• Database Querying: Structured Query Language (SQL) for data extraction and manipulation from various databases.

• Data Analysis & Visualization: Tools for processing, analyzing, and visualizing large datasets.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in generating formal reports for government and stakeholder consumption.

• Dashboarding Tools: Potentially used for internal analysis and visualization of key metrics, though less emphasized than core statistical tools.

CRM & Automation:

• Automation Tools: Experience with scripting and programming (R, Python) to automate data workflows, reporting, and analysis processes.

• Data Management: Handling and managing large, complex datasets common in government research.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on statistical analysis, data manipulation, and automation using specialized software and programming languages. This is distinct from typical CRM-centric sales operations tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Public Service: A core commitment to serving the citizens of Illinois by providing essential services and informing policy that impacts their lives.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on rigorous analysis, evidence-based research, and objective interpretation of data to guide policy and programmatic decisions.

• Equity and Compassion: A dedication to fairness, inclusivity, and understanding the diverse needs of Illinois workers and employers.

• Efficiency and Effectiveness: Striving for optimal resource utilization and program delivery to maximize public benefit.

• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in research, data handling, and public interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working collaboratively with colleagues across the Economic Information & Analysis Division and other IDES departments to share insights and achieve common goals.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Professional and communicative engagement with internal leadership, policymakers, and potentially external partners to present research and gather feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing expertise, best practices, and lessons learned within the team and the broader agency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is defined by a strong sense of public duty, ethical conduct, and a commitment to using data for the betterment of the state and its residents.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Data Complexity & Volume: Managing and analyzing vast, potentially complex datasets related to unemployment insurance and the labor market requires robust technical skills and careful data governance.

• Policy Relevance: Ensuring research findings are not only statistically sound but also relevant and actionable for state government policy-making, which can involve navigating political and administrative complexities.

• Modernization of Legacy Systems: Updating and automating traditional reporting and analysis processes can be challenging, requiring technical expertise and effective change management.

• Balancing Research and Management: Effectively balancing the demands of conducting high-level economic research with the responsibilities of supervising a team and administrative duties.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Statistical Techniques: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in specialized areas of econometrics, forecasting, and data science.

• Policy Analysis & Government Operations: Gaining a deeper understanding of public policy development, legislative processes, and government administration.

• Leadership & Management Training: Developing skills in team leadership, performance management, and project oversight within a public sector context.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Potential to attend relevant economic and labor market information conferences to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are typical for a senior research role within a government agency, focusing on data, policy impact, and operational modernization. Growth opportunities are geared towards deepening expertise and advancing within the public service framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex economic research project you led. What was the objective, your methodology, the key findings, and the impact on policy or decision-making?" (Focus on structured approach, technical rigor, and demonstrable impact).

• "How would you approach forecasting unemployment rates for Illinois over the next 12-24 months, considering current economic indicators and potential future shocks?" (Prepare to discuss forecasting models, data sources, assumptions, and limitations).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the State of Illinois and the Department of Employment Security specifically?" (Connect your passion for public service, data-driven policy, or labor market analysis to the agency's mission).

• "How do you handle disagreements or differing opinions within a team setting, particularly when analyzing sensitive economic data?" (Highlight collaborative problem-solving, respect for diverse perspectives, and data-driven resolution).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 2-3 Key Projects: Choose projects that best demonstrate your technical skills (modeling, coding), research capabilities, and impact on policy or operations.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate: The Problem/Objective, Your Role/Approach, The Methodology/Tools Used, The Results/Findings, and The Impact/Outcome.

• Quantify Success: Use metrics and data to support your claims about efficiency gains, forecast accuracy, or policy influence.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Prepare to answer detailed questions about your statistical models, code, and analytical choices.

• Showcase Automation: If you have examples of automating processes, highlight the efficiency gains and improvements in data accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong analytical and leadership skills, as well as a clear understanding of economic principles and their application to public policy within the UI context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the State of Illinois jobs portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume/CV is highly detailed, specifically highlighting your Master's/PhD in Economics or related field, your years of experience with statistical software (mentioning Stata, R, Python, SQL, etc.), and any experience with econometric modeling, forecasting, policy studies, or supervisory roles.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of your research projects, statistical analyses, code snippets (if possible), and any documented policy studies or reports you have authored or contributed to. Focus on showcasing impact and technical proficiency.

• Research IDES: Familiarize yourself with the Illinois Department of Employment Security's mission, services, and recent reports or initiatives related to unemployment insurance and labor market information.

• Practice Presentation Skills: Be ready to articulate your experience and project examples clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a panel of economists and administrators.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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