Research Associate, Payments

CompanyFederal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

When you join the Federal Reserve-the nation's central bank-you'll play a key role, collaborating with leading professionals to strengthen and protect our economic, financial and payments systems. We invest in contemporary and emerging technology each year to support the Federal Reserve and our economy, and we're building a dynamic and diverse team for our future.

The Economic Research Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City is recruiting for the full-time position of Payments Research Associate (RA). The Department conducts innovative analysis and research on a variety of topics, including applied microeconomics, consumer finance, payments, macroeconomics, monetary policy, international trade, and regional economics, among others. The Department has an opening for an RA to start in fall/winter 2026. The program generally runs for two years with the opportunity to extend, if applicable

This is an excellent position for someone who is passionate about research and considering a PhD in economics. RAs develop analytical and communication skills as well as technical skills, such as programming and working in a high-performance computing environment. RAs have gone on to PhD programs at Boston College, Columbia University, New York University, Stanford University, University of Chicago, University of Michigan, University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, University of Texas at Austin, University of Rochester, and Georgetown University

Key Activities

• Working with PhD economists on policy briefings and academic research projects.

• Analyzing data and creating charts from large transaction-level datasets and national surveys, including payment network and settlement data, consumer credit panels, and household survey microdata.

• Participating in econometric or theoretical research, writing for Bank publications, and delivering speeches to civic and educational groups.

Required Education and Skills

• Bachelor's or master's degree in economics or a closely related field such as statistics, mathematics, or computer science.

• Coursework or experience in economics required; coursework or experience in econometrics, mathematics, statistics, and computer science highly desirable.

• Proficiency in programming languages and statistical software packages such as Stata, R, Python, or Matlab highly desirable.

• Strong academic record and experience with empirical research and data analysis highly desirable.

To Apply

• Please attach a resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcript copy. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

• We will review applications on a rolling basis, so applying early is recommended.

• Applications will be pre-screened prior to interview selections. You will receive notification if you have been selected for a virtual interview.

• Please apply before November 1, 2026 to be considered for a fall/winter 2026 (start date is flexible).

For more information on the Economic Research Department and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, please visit us on the web at www.kansascityfed.org. For information on RA openings throughout the Federal Reserve System, visit www.fedeconjobs.org.

Additional Information

How We Work:

• On-site, full-time with 5 days per month remote work flexibility

• Location: Kansas City, MO

Salary:

• $59,000 - 76,300 / Research Associate I

• Final offers are determined by factors including the candidate's qualifications, internal alignment considerations, district assignment, and geographic location.

Citizenship Requirements: Generally, non-U.S. citizens are eligible to apply if they are able to obtain the legal status to work in the United States for at least two years without sponsorship from the Bank. F-1 visa holders with STEM OPT extension are eligible to apply.

Screening Requirements: Certain eligibility requirements may apply.

Sponsorship: The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City will not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization for this position. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

About the KC Fed

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Full Time / Part TimeFull time

Regular / TemporaryRegular

Job Exempt (Yes / No)Yes

Job CategoryEconomics/Research Family Group

Work ShiftFirst (United States of America)

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Salary : $59,000 - $76,300