Principal Labor Economist
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for labor economists with a strong grasp of digital skills and remote work dynamics is on the rise, with a 25% increase in job openings in the past year. As the job market continues to evolve, professionals with expertise in labor economics and macroeconomic trends are in high demand. UKG stands out as a leader in workforce intelligence, and this Principal Labor Economist role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of workforce analytics. With the global workforce expected to reach 3.5 billion by 2027, the need for data-driven insights has never been more pressing. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their expertise in labor economics, as well as their ability to work autonomously in a remote setting.
Job Description
About the Role
As a Principal Labor Economist at UKG, you will be part of a highly strategic and forward-looking analytics and insights function focused on shaping the future of workforce intelligence. The team partners closely with product, strategy, data science, and executive leadership to transform one of the industry's most comprehensive workforce datasets into actionable insights. This role requires a highly autonomous leader who thrives in ambiguity and operates at the intersection of data, strategy, and influence.The Principal Labor Economist will serve as a senior thought leader and trusted advisor, guiding the evolution of workforce and labor market analytics. You will connect labor economics, macroeconomic trends, and financial systems to shape both internal strategy and external market positioning. Your expertise will be crucial in driving innovation in how organizations understand labor supply, wage dynamics, productivity, and macroeconomic trends.
UKG's workforce operating platform is used by tens of millions of workers, and your work will have a direct impact on the future of workforce intelligence. You will have the opportunity to work with a comprehensive dataset spanning over 20 million frontline workers, and your insights will influence enterprise strategy and build differentiated, client-facing workforce intelligence solutions.
What You Will Do
- Establish and expand thought leadership in labor economics through publications, speaking engagements, and industry engagement
- Define and advance the strategic direction of workforce and labor market analytics aligned to long-term business objectives
- Lead complex, high-impact, cross-functional initiatives with significant visibility and strategic importance
- Develop advanced economic models, forecasting frameworks, and scenario analyses to guide strategic planning
- Integrate large-scale internal workforce data with external macroeconomic and financial indicators to produce differentiated insights
- Anticipate economic, regulatory, and market shifts, translating them into new analytical approaches and product opportunities
- Partner with product, strategy, and data science teams to embed economic insights into client-facing solutions
- Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, influencing decisions through data-driven recommendations
- Communicate complex economic concepts clearly to executive, technical, and external audiences
- Mentor and elevate team capability in advanced economic analysis, modeling, and methodology
What We Are Looking For
- Master's or PhD in Economics, Econometrics, or related discipline
- 7-10+ years of experience in economic analysis, including exposure to financial services (banking, asset management, fintech, or consulting)
- Deep expertise in labor economics and its intersection with macroeconomic and financial trends
- Strong experience developing advanced econometric models, forecasting frameworks, and analytical methodologies
- Expertise working with large, complex datasets and modern statistical/AI-driven techniques
- Proven ability to translate complex economic insights into business impact
- Strong understanding of financial systems and macroeconomic dynamics
- Recognized expert in labor economics with a strong understanding of financial systems and macroeconomic dynamics
Nice to Have
- Experience working with cloud-based data platforms and tools
- Familiarity with machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques
- Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, R, or SQL
Benefits and Perks
- Flexible and remote work arrangements
- Comprehensive health insurance plan
- Generous paid time off and holiday policy
- Professional development opportunities and training budget
- Access to cutting-edge technology and tools
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Recognition and reward for outstanding performance
- Opportunities for career advancement and growth
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong understanding of labor economics and its intersection with macroeconomic and financial trends to stand out in this role.
- Showcase your expertise in advanced econometric models, forecasting frameworks, and analytical methodologies in your portfolio or resume.
- Be prepared to communicate complex economic concepts clearly to executive, technical, and external audiences during the interview process.
- Highlight your experience working with large, complex datasets and modern statistical/AI-driven techniques.
- Research UKG's workforce operating platform and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience can contribute to the company's mission and goals.
- Negotiate salary based on industry standards and your level of experience, and don't hesitate to ask about benefits and perks.
- Look for red flags such as lack of clear communication, unclear expectations, or unrealistic goals during the interview process.
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