Government Economic Service

About The Government Economic Service

Ready to start your economics career? Join the Government Economic Service

Think economics is just theory? Think again. At the Government Economic Service (GES), we're the UK's largest recruiter of economists, with over 3,500 members working across more than 50 government departments nationwide. We turn economic theory into real-world impact.

What could you be working on?

Imagine analysing data that shapes government policy, preparing briefings that go straight to ministers, or researching solutions to challenges like climate change, housing, productivity or economic inequality. Our economists have been at the heart of responding to major events like Covid-19 and supporting communities through economic uncertainty. Your work here doesn't just build your CV; it genuinely makes a difference to millions of people's lives.

How to work for us

There are three main pathways into the profession, depending on your level of experience and qualification.

For undergraduate students:

Summer Placements (6-12 weeks): perfect if you're in your penultimate year of undergraduate study and want to test-drive a government career. You'll earn a salary over your summer holiday, while getting hands-on experience that many of our permanent staff say was "life changing."

Sandwich Placements (up to a year): take a full year out from your undergraduate studies to dive deep into government economics. The best part? If you successfully complete your placement, you’ll get a guaranteed interview for a permanent role when you graduate, and many of our sandwich students come back to work with us.

For those without an economics degree:

Degree level apprenticeship programme (usually 4 years): if you're curious about how the world works, enjoy problem-solving, or want to understand the "why" behind government decisions, economics might be your perfect fit. Our degree apprenticeship programme offers a fee-free economics degree from the University of Kent alongside working in a government department. This scheme allows you to earn whilst you learn. No economics experience is necessary, just a desire to learn!

For economics graduates:

Assistant Economist Graduate Scheme: As an Assistant Economist in government, you'll collaborate on solutions to today's most pressing public policy challenges. You could be developing insightful analysis, exploring data patterns, sharing advice on policy options, and preparing essential briefings for ministers. There is also the GES Scheme which is part of the Civil Service Fast Stream programme.

Why work for us?

• Real responsibility: from day one you'll be contributing to policies that matter
• Diverse experience: our economists work across the entire span of government, and can be found working in departments from HM Treasury to Natural England
• Locations across the UK: from Edinburgh to Cardiff, Manchester to London
• Flexible working: we understand that work-life balance matters
• 25 days holiday plus public holidays: because everyone needs downtime
• Inclusive environment: we celebrate diverse perspectives because they make our analysis better
• Professional development: join a community of over 3,500 economists with ongoing training, learning and networking

What our economists say:

"My placement was life changing. Not only did I gain technical and analytical skills, but the life skills I developed have shaped me as a person." Eliza, Sandwich Placement Student

“I really enjoy the range of work you’re exposed to in government and the responsibility you’re given, even as an apprentice. I find it really rewarding to know that the work that I’m doing will ultimately improve the lives of ordinary people in the UK. As an apprentice, you are treated like any other civil servant and are given lots of responsibility.” Néha, Economics Degree Apprentice

Your future in economics starts here, and it starts with making a real difference.