Agricultural Economist
Description of Work Unit:
The Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) has provided economic analysis and market projections concerning the livestock industry since 1955. It is a North American cooperative effort involving 29 U.S. land-grant university extension programs, eight USDA agencies, and associate industry and educational organizations. Associate members include both U.S. and Canadian institutions. The LMIC mission statement is to “provide timely and comprehensive livestock marketing resources through cooperation.” The LMIC is a non-advocacy virtual center of excellence. Commodities/sectors focused on are cattle/beef, hogs/pork, sheep/lamb, dairy, poultry, and feedstuffs.
Staff continuously produce unbiased, science-based materials to strengthen and supplement education and research activities of cooperating institutions. Specialists at LMIC conduct applied market analysis, and staff maintain a comprehensive database. The LMIC maintains a website (lmic.info) and uses other forms of electronic distribution. This position is supported by a combination of funds from the participating cooperating institutions and is administered by Colorado State University Extension.
We are committed to increasing the diversity of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. We invite you to review Colorado State University’s Principles of Community that guide our mission and vision of access, teaching, service, and engagement.
Job Description:
The LMIC seeks to hire a CSU student to support the economic analysis and existing data systems at LMIC. The individual in this position will be working under the supervision of the LMIC Director. The individual in this position will be responsible for conducting economic analysis in the form of data compilation and data analysis resulting in economic reports and materials pertinent to the LMIC. The ideal candidate will have experience in the field of agricultural economics with a focus on and interest in livestock and feed markets. This position offers an excellent opportunity to broaden knowledge and skills in the field of agricultural economics and research a myriad of topics and issues related to the livestock sector.
Typical work week will be 5-10 hours/week with the option to increase hours depending on student’s schedule. Occasional weekend and evening work may be required.
Job Duties/Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain a stable analytical information structure allowing for efficient dissemination and steady flow of data pertaining to industries or economies of interest to LMIC and its cooperating institutions.
- Ability to problem-solve, learn quickly and succeed in a fast-paced work environment. (CT/PS)
- Produce analysis of economic conditions in a concise and timely manner based on disciplined analysis consistent with commonly understood principles of macro and micro economic theory.
Required Skills:
- Pursuing an agricultural economics or a closely related degree at Colorado State University. (Both undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to apply, but graduate students are preferred. The ideal candidate will have interest and experience in the livestock and feed markets.)
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, including experience developing technical reports and presenting analysis results to a diverse range of audiences. (V/WC)
- Knowledge and experience with computer applications (e.g., spreadsheet, word processing) and the internet.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, manage time to meet deadlines, and demonstrate responsibility and integrity. (PA)
- Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience engaging with diverse audiences, including faculty, students, and community partners.
- Knowledge and experience with database applications.
- Ability to analyze and integrate data and information from diverse sources.
- Demonstrated skill working with people both individually and within a team to accomplish goals.
- Must be a self-starter with demonstrated evidence of drive and initiative.
Hourly Pay Rate: $20-30 per hour depending on skills and experience
Background Check Disclaimer: Colorado State University may conduct a Background check on all final candidates.
Benefit Information: Employee Benefit information can be found on HR’s Website: https://hr.colostate.edu/current-employees/benefits/