Senior Research Consultant (Economist)

Are you passionate about creating positive change? Develop your research career with the Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF), at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). For nearly three decades, ISF has been a recognised leader in applied sustainability research, both in Australia and internationally. We deliver impactful research through partnerships with government, industry, civil society, and the global research community.Due to our continued growth, ISF is seeking a talented and dynamic researcher with qualifications and experience as an economist that can undertake quantitative and qualitative economic analysis within applied research projects for community, industry and government clients.

You will work on engaging and impactful research projects primarily in our Energy Futures research program focusing primarily on employment modelling and programs association with the transition of Australia’s energy system, decarbonisation of regional, national and global energy systems, innovation in consumer energy technologies (such as EVs, battery storage etc).

Working with a team of exceptional senior researchers on multiple concurrent projects, you will gain mentorship and support across a range of disciplines and contribute to applied research that makes a real difference. ISF undertakes game-changing sustainability research at UTS. Located in central Sydney, UTS is consistently ranked as Australia’s top young university, with exceptional people working together in a vibrant, creative precinct.

About the Role

We are looking for early career researchers with qualitative and/or quantitative skills who are capable of contributing to high-impact research in a consultancy-style environment. You will be able to apply research economist techniques (e.g. modelling, cost-benefit analysis) across different sustainability domains, in particular clean energy technologies, labour markets and employment.

For quantitative researchers, proficiency in Excel is essential. Experience using other quantitative programs is desirable. For qualitative researchers, experience with literature reviews, essay and report writing, and qualitative research skills will be well regarded.

You will contribute as a team member to research project tasks, stakeholder engagement and outreach, and assisting with the preparation of proposals for external funding opportunities and written reports and publications.

It is expected the candidate would hold a degree in economics or related discipline and demonstrated experience in applying quantitative and/or qualitative economics methods. Experience or interest in labour market economics would be an advantage.

Selection Criteria

In a separate document, please respond to the detailed numbered selection criteria found at the end of the position description by writing up to half a page for each criterion.

The selection criteria are:
1. Research skills (qualitative or quantitative): experience specifically in economics modelling or cost benefit analysis. You enjoy working with data and/or people to answer research questions, using qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods. You have completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree relevant to economics. You will contribute to the design of research projects as well as analysis.
2. Communication skills: You have excellent written and verbal communication skills, contributing to reports, presentations or engagement activities.
3. Project management and teamwork skills: You can proactively manage tasks, timelines and competing priorities at a team level, and prepare and oversee project budgets and work as part of a team of researchers.
4. Community engagement/relationships experience: You have proficiency in professional networking and creating external partnerships and have capacity to influence industry and government through research.
5. Technical knowledge as an economist: You bring technical expertise as an economist, including quantitative economist techniques (e.g. modelling, cost-benefit analysis) and qualitative (e.g. policy analysis). You will have a high level of skill in excel, including developing and using models.

Base Salary Range: $109,014 - $120,596 pa (HEW 7)

This role attracts 17% superannuation in addition to the base salary.

UTS staff also benefit from a wide range of Employee Benefits include flexible work practices, generous parental leave and salary packaging opportunities.

This position is full-time and appointment will be made on a fixed term basis for two years

Submit your resume, selection criteria and cover letter as part of your application. Please ensure that the file name for each document submitted includes IRC and your name .

Applications should be submitted only via the UTS online recruitment system.

Closing date: Wednesday, 1st July 2026 at 11:59 PM (AEST)

For specific enquiries or issues with your application, please direct them to the UTS Recruitment Team at

UTS is committed to building a culturally safe and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply and welcome your contribution to our research community.

UTS prioritises safety, respect, and inclusion for every member of our community. In support of this, and in line with our statutory obligations under the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2026, all prospective employees must declare any past investigations relating to gender-based violence. Employment at UTS is contingent upon completion of this declaration, and, where necessary, assessment of any identified risk factors. We appreciate your role in upholding the standards and behaviour expected of our community.