The Congressional Budget Office is a small nonpartisan agency that provides economic and budgetary analysis to the Congress. CBO’s Budget Analysis Division, which develops multiyear budget projections and cost estimates for nearly every bill approved by Congressional committees, seeks an assistant analyst to work in its Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit. The assistant analyst will work mainly on topics in agriculture, conservation, and other areas in the unit’s portfolio.

CBO’s assistant analysts work both independently and collaboratively and often on tight deadlines to respond to Congressional requests. They typically work on several bills simultaneously, gathering and synthesizing information by collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data. They are required to communicate often with other CBO staff members and with staff at federal agencies and other organizations.

This is an entry-level position limited to a three-year appointment. It is ideal for a candidate who is interested in gaining substantive work experience before attending graduate school in public policy, economics, law, or another analytical field. It is open only to those who have or are completing a bachelor’s degree; it is not for someone who has or is completing a graduate degree.

Qualifications

Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree by June 2024 and have a strong academic background in economics, mathematics, statistics, finance, computer science, policy analysis, or a related field. The position requires strong quantitative skills, exceptional written and oral communication skills, perseverance, and a desire to work on issues of interest to the Congress.

Experience with Excel and other Microsoft Office products is required. Proficiency with statistical software packages or programming languages is desirable. Knowledge of or experience with agriculture support programs is preferred but not required.

Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Tier 1 (NACI) investigation.

Salary and Benefits

The starting salary will be $60,000. CBO offers excellent benefits and a collegial, respectful work environment.

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter, a one- to two-page résumé, a writing sample of no more than three pages, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for three references at www.cbo.gov/careers. To ensure consideration, apply by April 22, 2024; incomplete applications will not be considered. This position is governed by the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998, as made applicable to CBO by the Congressional Accountability Act, as amended.

Contact

Kate Green or Annita Gulati Cox, Washington, D.C., careers@cbo.gov.