Department: The Center for Economic Development & Business Research (CEDBR)

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: $55,000-$65,000/yr (commensurate with experience)

Work Schedule: Mon-Fri, 8-5pm

Export Compliance Requirement: No export control requirement.

Job Story

The Center for Economic Development and Business Research (CEDBR) at WSU seeks a collaborative and client-focused Research Economist to support applied economic research and community engagement initiatives.
This is a front-facing role, someone who is able to work closely with businesses, government agencies, and community partners to lead projects from initial intake and scoping through final delivery. You will manage multiple projects, track progress using project management tools, and develop high-quality deliverables, including public reports, executive summaries, presentations, and interactive or web-based content tailored to our client's needs. This person will need to live in the Wichita Metro area, since this is not a remote position.
This position requires strong analytical, communication, and client management skills, with the ability to translate complex economic data into clear, actionable insights. Candidates should be comfortable facilitating high-level discussions, presenting to public audiences, and building relationships across the community.
Our ideal candidates will have a master’s degree in economics or a related field, relevant applied or industry experience, strong time management skills, and intellectual curiosity. This role operates in a professional work environment, with occasional travel required, and plays a key role in supporting CEDBR’s strong reputation for impactful, community-centered research.

Job Summary

Provides local and state forecasts, analyzing regional economies, building data tools, and conducting business research.

Essential Functions

Provides applied business and economic research analysis for the local area. Maintains and updates online research and department information as needed. Develops and maintains econometric forecasting model for local and state economies. Analyzes and reports on the local and regional economy. Updates and maintains fiscal impact model, annually, or as needed. Solicits contracts to conduct applied research on the regional economy. Leads major research projects.

Job Duties

Client Engagement & Project Design
• Lead client needs assessment and translate requests into defined research projects.
• Support client relationship development through technical expertise.

Research & Analysis
• Conduct applied economic research, including impact studies, forecasting, market analysis,
and regional economic assessments.
• Develop and maintain analytical models and tools.
• Analyze and report on local and regional economic trends.
• Prepare reports and present findings to clients, stakeholders, and public audiences.

Project Portfolio Management & Delivery
• Manage a portfolio of research projects from initiation to completion
• Manage project administration and reporting.
• Support Center initiatives and research-related events.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in economics, finance, business or related field.
• Two (2) years of experience in business research, financial analysis or related field.

Required License/Certifications/Training:

None

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI or similar)
• Proficiency in R or another statistical programming language
• Experience with IMPLAN economic input-output modeling is preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Project management and organizational abilities
• High attention to detail and analytical rigor
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong preference for candidates with a master’s degree in economics, finance, business or related field
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Physical Requirements:

Ability to remain in a stationary position. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.