Economist/Senior Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The Institute for Capacity Development (ICDMF) is a prominent division within the International Monetary Fund (IMF), established to enhance the capacity of member countries in macroeconomic and fiscal policy analysis. ICDMF is the largest of the four delivery divisions at the IMF, employing a diverse team of professionals with backgrounds in academia, international organizations, ministries of finance, and central banks. The organization is dedicated to delivering technical assistance and training to build capacity in forecasting and policy analysis for fiscal agencies and public institutions. With a focus on developing new models and approaches for macroeconomic frameworks, ICDMF manages over 40 macroeconomic framework technical assistance projects and conducts over 50 training courses annually, contributing significantly to the IMF's mission of fostering global economic stability and growth.

Job Overview:
The Economist/Senior Economist position within the General Macro and Fiscal Division of ICDMF involves a multifaceted role that encompasses leading and participating in capacity development missions, coordinating macroeconomic frameworks technical assistance, and contributing to the development of analytical tools and training materials. The successful candidate will engage in project design and implementation, manage project work and team dynamics, and prepare various reports and documentation related to technical assistance. This role requires a strong analytical background in macroeconomic and fiscal policy issues, as well as the ability to deliver training in macroeconomic analysis and fiscal policy. The position also offers opportunities to contribute to departmental initiatives aimed at advancing macroeconomic frameworks across the IMF, making it a critical role in supporting the organization's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Economist/Senior Economist include leading and participating in capacity development missions, coordinating all aspects of macroeconomic frameworks technical assistance, and managing project design and implementation. The successful candidate will prepare individual technical assistance work programs, develop analytical tools, and oversee project work and team management. Responsibilities also include preparing briefing notes, back-to-office reports, and Technical Assistance Reports. The candidate may be tasked with delivering external and internal training, leading the development of capacity development materials such as tools, models, applications, lectures, case studies, and workshops. Additionally, the role involves participating in Analytics and Development efforts to support divisional and departmental capacity development, as well as taking on other responsibilities as assigned by divisional management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong educational background in economics, typically acquired through considerable graduate work or equivalent experience. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in macroeconomic and fiscal policy issues, economic modeling, and medium-term forecasting. Strong analytical abilities and institutional knowledge of central banks and ministries of finance are essential. Experience in macroeconomic modeling and project management within public institutions is highly advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate advanced knowledge of time series analysis, including state-space modeling, Bayesian and classical inference, and optimization methods. Proficiency in standard computing environments for economic modeling, such as Python, Matlab, R, and Excel, is required, along with the ability to develop new tools and assist others in building analytical tools. Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills are also necessary.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in economics or a related field is required, with a strong emphasis on macroeconomic and fiscal policy analysis. Candidates should have completed considerable graduate work that equips them with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to excel in this role. Additional certifications or specialized training in economic modeling and analysis may be beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in macroeconomic modeling and project management, particularly within central banks, ministries of finance, or similar public institutions. Experience in delivering capacity development and working on macroeconomic and fiscal policy analysis is crucial. Prior involvement with semi-structural and DSGE modeling in emerging markets and developing countries will be considered a strong advantage. The role requires a demonstrated ability to lead projects and teams effectively, showcasing a track record of successful project delivery.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as the role requires strong communication skills for both oral and written presentations. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders across different regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is a one-year contractual appointment, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years of cumulative contractual service, contingent upon performance, budget availability, and ongoing business needs. The IMF is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that employment decisions are made without discrimination. Reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process are available upon request.