Analyst - Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit
CBO’s Budget Analysis Division seeks an analyst in its Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit, which covers a wide range of federal programs including agriculture, commerce, justice, energy and the environment, and the management of federal lands and natural resources as well as public investments in science, telecommunications, and transportation infrastructure. The analyst’s specific responsibilities will evolve over time and will depend on the needs of the Congress.
CBO’s analysts have broad responsibilities, and they often contribute significantly to the legislative and budget process by preparing cost estimates for pending legislation and developing short- and long-term budget projections. Their work requires extensive contact with key Congressional staff, federal and state agency officials, subject matter experts in industry and academia, and other CBO staff. The Congress relies on CBO’s analyses to prepare its annual budget plans, evaluate the President’s budget proposals, gauge the potential budgetary consequences of policy ideas, and estimate the cost of proposed legislation.
The analyst will estimate the cost of legislative proposals, develop baseline budget projections, and provide technical assistance to Congressional staff as they develop legislative proposals.
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a graduate degree in public policy, economics, or a related discipline with an economic and quantitative background. The position requires the following:
- The ability to accurately interpret and analyze legislative proposals;
- Strong quantitative skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Excel;
- Resourcefulness in investigating unfamiliar issues;
- Superior written and oral communication skills, especially the ability to explain technical material to nonspecialists; and
- The ability to work on several projects simultaneously and to independently complete projects under tight deadlines.
Preferred background includes some or all of the following:
- Familiarity with activities related to developing federal agency budgets;
- Knowledge of federal agency programs, policies, and procedures; and
- Experience with the Congressional budget process.