U.S. Travel Association

Summary:

Are you passionate about travel and driven by a desire to use data to shape industry and policy? Do you thrive on telling meaningful stories through economic research and impact analysis? We are looking for a talented and curious economist to join our team and help illuminate the power of travel through rigorous, insightful research. If you enjoy applying advanced quantitative methods to real-world policy questions and translating complex findings into accessible, actionable insights—this role is for you.

We are seeking a highly skilled Economist with a Ph.D. in Economics, Econometrics, or equivalent ability and experience to expand our research team. This role is central to producing data-driven analyses that quantify the economic contributions of the travel industry and inform advocacy on policies affecting travel, tourism, and related sectors. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in economic impact modeling, cost-benefit analysis, and applied econometrics, with a strong desire to influence decision-making and public discourse.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and execution of economic impact models to assess how travel and tourism contribute to U.S. employment, GDP, tax revenues, and economic development.
• Author and present high-quality economic reports, white papers, and policy briefs that translate analytical results into clear, compelling narratives.
• Utilize input-output modeling tools (e.g., IMPLAN, RIMS II) or custom-built frameworks to estimate the economic ripple effects of industry trends, government policies, or infrastructure investments.
• Conduct advanced analysis using datasets from sources such as BEA, BLS, Census Bureau, and proprietary travel data.
• Translate complex economic data into clear, actionable insights through presentations, briefings, and data visualizations for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Partner with advocacy, communications, and membership teams to ensure economic analysis supports strategic goals and policy initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent advanced degree) in Economics, Econometrics, or a closely related quantitative discipline.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in applied economic research, ideally with a focus on economic impact modeling, regional economics, or public policy analysis in the travel sector.
• Deep familiarity with tools and frameworks for economic impact analysis (e.g., IMPLAN, RIMS II), including experience building and interpreting such models.
• Proficiency with statistical and econometric software (e.g., R, Python, SPSS, or Stata); advanced Excel skills and comfort working with large datasets.
• Proven ability to author economic research reports or policy briefs for both technical and general audiences.
• Excellent communication skills, with a talent for transforming complex quantitative findings into persuasive, accessible narratives.
• Genuine interest in travel and public policy—and a commitment to using research to drive real-world impact

Other:

• Position based in Washington, DC. U.S. Travel staff work in the office Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays.
• Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 
• Salary Range: $130k - $145k

 Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare package with fertility coverage
• Generous paid leave including family leave
• Transportation and cell phone benefits
• Robust wellness initiatives and Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
• Snacks, lunches, and many opportunities for social connections
• Education and professional development assistance