Graduate Economist

• Work directly alongside the Chief Economist of Auckland Council!
• Provide evidence based economic advice that helps enhance the city’s liveability and prosperity. 
• A unique 2-year graduate programme that will support the development of both your analytical and advisory capability.
   

He angitūtanga: The opportunity
The Chief Economist Unit is part of the Policy, Planning and Governance Directorate. We advise decision makers, including elected members and senior leadership, on urban issues from an economic perspective. We assess the resource impacts of policy proposals by analysing the benefits, costs and trade-offs for Aucklanders. Our focus includes land use, housing, transport, infrastructure, funding, and the natural environment.

Ultimately, we support elected members, colleagues and the public to understand the urban policy issues facing Auckland, and the choices and trade-offs involved. 

For more insights, check out our quarterly economic report here.

Working in a small close-knit team, your day-to-day tasks may include:

• Analysing policy settings and monitoring and interpreting relevant data.
• Applying economic theory to analysis of large datasets to draw out insights. 
• Presenting findings visually, in written format and in person.
• Critically evaluating proposals to identify improvements and offer constructive feedback.
• Preparing economic advice to decision makers.

With several rotations to other teams, we will provide a healthy mix of on-the-job learning, mentoring from experienced professionals, and meaningful work. 

Start date: 9 February 2026 
 

He kōrero mōu: About you
We are looking for someone who takes an inclusive approach to their work, is highly collaborative and motivated to apply their passion for economics to urban policy issues. 

We welcome applicants who hold a degree majoring in Economics. 

To be eligible to apply, you must have the following:

• Eligibility to work in New Zealand for more than 3 years without sponsorship.
• Minimum of a relevant Bachelor’s degree completed January 2024 – January 2026.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
Our 2-year Graduate Programme aims to provide you with the opportunities and support you need to launch your career and develop as a future leader or specialist within Auckland Council.  With over 80 areas of business and the chance to work on large-scale projects, we want to see you achieve your goals while making a real difference in the lives of Aucklanders. At the end of the programme, you’ll also be supported in securing a permanent role within one of our Auckland Council entities.

Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tāmaki Makaurau a world-class city.
 

We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible.

To view all the benefits we have to offer at Auckland Council visit our Careers website.   
For more information on our Graduate programme visit our Grads, Interns and Cadets page.

Help us make a difference to Tāmaki Makaurau. 

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!
We will be reviewing and progressing applications  
Find a copy of the position description here.

If you have any support or access requirements, please advise us when submitting your application so we can assist you.

This role has a starting salary of $65,000.
Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

#workingforauckland 
 

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.