Economist

Economist, Full time starting 2027

Counterfactual Consulting · Chicago / New York

Apply economics to real-world problems using big data alongside Professor John A. List and other UChicago economists. We help firms make evidence-based decisions using field experiments and rigorous causal methods from economics. Build a career in data science or prepare for a top economics PhD program. 

About Counterfactual

Counterfactual Consulting is a boutique economic consulting firm that applies the frontier of economics research to help our partners tackle real-world problems using tools from behavioral economics, causal inference, and data science. Our firm has expertise in designing economic experiments as well as using existing data to deliver insights.

We have extensive experience working with firms and governments on six continents to leverage this expertise and help drive desired outcomes in industries including private equity, financial services, insurance, transportation, retail, technology, and professional sports.

The Full Time Role

This role is for current fourth year undergraduate students who want to build a career applying the toolkit of economics research to impact business decisions. Counterfactual economists work directly with clients on projects that leadership treats as top priorities. This is not a back-office research role. Successful candidates will be able to plan, execute, and present their own research findings directly to client leadership.

What You'll Do

Design and analyze experiments. Deploy field experiments that measure the impact of pricing, product, policy and other changes to generate decision-grade evidence.

Estimate causal effects. Use naturally occurring firm data to estimate causal relationships via appropriate econometric and machine learning methods.

Frame and evaluate trade-offs. Define the business trade-offs at stake and quantify them so clients can make strategic decisions under uncertainty.

Apply behavioral economics. Use insights on how consumers make decisions to inform overall strategy.

Required Qualifications

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program at a four-year university

Expected graduation between December 2026 and August 2027

Strong interest in economics, academic research, and its real-world applications

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with large datasets in SQL, R, or Python

Coursework in econometrics, statistics, or experimental design

Experience as a research assistant on academic or applied research

Details

Start dates: January – July 2027 · Compensation: $110-180k/year · Location: Chicago and New York

How to Apply

Send resume and transcript to recruiting@counterfactualconsulting.com by 11/9