Are you a data-driven economist passionate about international trade, antitrust analysis, and supply chain dynamics? If you’re seeking a high-impact federal role that blends economic research with real-world policy influence, the Industry Economist (Direct Hire) position at the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is calling your name. Announced under Direct Hire Authority, this opportunity skips traditional rating processes to fast-track top talent into shaping U.S. maritime policy.
With applications open through February 5, 2026, now’s the time to apply for this GS-11 to GS-13 level role in Washington, DC. Whether you’re a recent Ph.D. grad or a seasoned analyst, this job offers competitive pay, job security, and the chance to testify before the Commission on critical shipping market issues.
Job Snapshot: Key Details at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of this standout federal economist opportunity:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Title | Industry Economist (Direct Hire) |
| Announcement Number | DE-12855391-26-CH |
| Agency | Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) |
| Location | Washington, DC (1 vacancy) |
| Salary Range | $84,601 – $156,755 per year (GS-11 to GS-13, plus locality pay) |
| Open Period | December 18, 2025 – February 5, 2026 |
| Job Type | Full-Time, Permanent |
| Who May Apply | Open to U.S. citizens; Direct Hire – no veterans’ preference rating |
| Telework Eligible | Yes, per agency policy |
Source: Official USAJOBS Listing – https://economist.usajobs.gov/job/852789000
What You’ll Do: Duties That Drive Maritime Policy
As an Industry Economist, you’ll dive deep into the economics of international transportation, focusing on ocean shipping and marine terminals. This isn’t desk-bound research—expect collaboration with attorneys, industry stakeholders, and even courtroom testimony. Major responsibilities include:
- Antitrust-Style Analysis: Use economic and data science tools to review carrier agreements, mergers, and practices for competitive impacts, spotting rate hikes or service drops that distort markets.
- Expert Testimony: Prepare economic reports and testify in FMC hearings or U.S. District Court cases on shipping regulations.
- Market Monitoring: Track trade lanes for red flags like prohibited carrier actions under the Shipping Act, referring issues for enforcement.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Meet with carriers and terminal operators to discuss agreement effects and regulatory compliance.
- Tech-Savvy Data Work: Build SQL databases, run queries for reports, and employ web scraping or APIs to pull supply chain data.
This role is perfect for economists who thrive on quantitative rigor and policy relevance, especially in global trade amid rising supply chain challenges.
Who We’re Looking For: Qualifications and Requirements
To qualify, you’ll need a strong foundation in economics plus specialized experience. Here’s the breakdown by grade level:
- Basic Education Requirement: Bachelor’s in economics (21+ semester hours in economics + 3 in stats/accounting/calculus) or equivalent combo of education and experience (e.g., economic research, teaching, or advisory roles). Master’s preferred. Foreign degrees? Submit equivalency certification.
- GS-11: 1+ year GS-9 equivalent experience in market/competition analysis, programming for datasets, and quantitative techniques. Or Ph.D./3 years grad education/LL.M. Or combo.
- GS-12: 1+ year GS-11 equivalent, applying econ/data science to antitrust reviews like mergers or agreements.
- GS-13: 1+ year GS-12 equivalent, providing expert testimony/analysis in litigation, including economic evidence evaluation.
Pro Tip: Resumes limited to 2 pages—focus on quantifiable achievements (e.g., “Automated data retrieval reducing analysis time by 40%”). Expect USA Hire assessments on competencies like decision-making, math reasoning, and teamwork, plus four 200-word essay questions on Constitution commitment, efficiency improvements, Executive Orders, and work ethic. No AI/consultant help allowed—keep it authentic!
Ideal candidates have FMC-relevant experience in shipping, trade policy, or antitrust, but private sector, academia, or nonprofits count too.
Perks of Federal Life: Why Choose This Economist Job?
Joining the FMC means more than a paycheck—it’s a gateway to meaningful public service with unbeatable benefits:
- Salary & Growth: Starts at $84K+, up to $156K+ with step increases and DC locality (about 33% boost).
- Comprehensive Package: Health/dental/vision insurance, TSP retirement (5% match), 13–26 days paid leave, 11 holidays, and student loan repayment eligibility.
- Work-Life Balance: Telework options, flexible hours, and no new probation for most current feds (but possible under Direct Hire).
- Impact & Prestige: Influence U.S. trade policy, collaborate globally, and build a resume that opens doors in econ consulting or international orgs.
- Diversity & Inclusion: Direct Hire promotes merit-based hiring; special authorities for veterans, disabled applicants, and CTAP/ICTAP eligibles.
In a volatile global economy, roles like this offer stability while letting you tackle issues like supply chain resilience head-on.
Ready to Apply? Your Step-by-Step Guide
Don’t delay—applications are reviewed on a rolling basis under Direct Hire. Here’s how to submit:
- Head to the official USAJOBS page: View Full Job Announcement & Apply.
- Create/log in to your USAJOBS account and upload a tailored resume (≤2 pages, MM/YYYY dates, hours/week).
- Answer the eligibility questionnaire and free-response essays.
- Attach required docs: Transcripts (unofficial OK initially), SF-50 (if federal), DD-214/vet docs (if applicable), and performance appraisal.
- Complete USA Hire assessments within 48 hours of invite (post-min quals).
Top candidates may interview; no travel reimbursement. Questions? Check USAJOBS help or FMC’s site.
Final Call: Seize This Industry Economist Opportunity
The shipping world’s complexities demand sharp economic minds like yours. This FMC role isn’t just a job—it’s a platform to safeguard fair competition, innovate with data, and advance U.S. economic interests. With the application window open until February 2026, polish that resume and apply today.