Manager, Economic Analysis and Policy

Description

The primary responsibilities of this position require a highly motivated problem solver with robust analytical ability and a keen interest in addressing real-world applied economics questions, including in the areas of industrial organization and market competition. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in conducting rigorous economic analyses, guiding policy development, and providing actionable insights to support the rail industry.

Nature and Scope

Reporting to the Senior Vice President of Policy & Economics, the Manager, Economic Analysis and Policy will oversee one to two economists and lead analytical efforts that inform AAR’s advocacy, regulatory, and industry initiatives. This position offers an opportunity to work on high-impact economic and policy issues, shaping the future of the rail industry.

Principal Accountabilities

• Team Management: Supervise and mentor a small team of economists, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment.
• Economic Analysis: Conduct empirical research and apply advanced econometric techniques to analyze large and complex datasets. Areas of focus include market dynamics, competition, demand forecasting, and regulatory impacts on the rail industry.
• Data Science Integration: Leverage statistical and data science tools (e.g., Python, R, Stata) to enhance modeling, predictive analytics, and data visualization.
• Policy Support: Provide economic expertise to support AAR’s policy and advocacy efforts, including analysis of regulatory frameworks, market conditions, and the economic impact of industry practices.
• Reporting and Communication: Translate complex economic findings into clear, actionable reports, presentations, and policy briefs for diverse stakeholders, including AAR members, industry groups, and policymakers.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Participate in discussions with member railroads, government agencies, and industry groups, delivering economic insights on critical issues.
• Strategic Leadership: Contribute to shaping the team’s strategic direction, aligning economic research priorities with AAR’s mission and member goals.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Economics, with a focus on Industrial Organization, econometrics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in economic research, including expertise in econometric analysis, preferably within the transportation, logistics, or regulated industries.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Proficiency in statistical software such as R, Python, or Stata, and experience handling large datasets.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex economic analyses in a clear and accessible manner.

About AAR

Founded in 1934 and located just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol and the National Mall, AAR is a top-tier trade association representing major freight and passenger railroads operating in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

In addition to representing its members on legislative and regulatory policy matters, AAR sets standards for rail cars and rail car components, certifies manufacturing and repair facilities, and audits facilities for compliance.

Its research subsidiary, MxV Rail, headquartered in Pueblo, Colorado, is the world’s leading railroad research facility, undertaking cutting-edge research for railroads and their suppliers from around the world.

AAR’s information technology subsidiary, Railinc, located in Cary, North Carolina, provides IT services to the railroad industry.

For more information on AAR and its subsidiaries, visit: www.aar.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer

AAR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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