Senior Economist

Date: 13 Aug 2026

Location: Melbourne, VIC, AU, 3000

Company: VicGov People Careers

About us  

 

The Essential Services Commission is Victoria’s independent economic regulator of essential services supplied by a range of industries. The commission’s functions include: 

 

  • making regulatory decisions with respect to prescribed industries (including price determinations, licensing, customer protection and access disputes).  
  • undertaking reviews and providing advice to Ministers on a range of economic and regulatory matters.  
  • administering the Victorian Energy Upgrades program. 

 

About the role 

The Senior Economist leads economics-focused research and analysis within the commission’s Economics and Insights Team in the Energy Division. The role identifies emerging issues in energy markets and informs regulatory decisions to promote the long-term interests of Victorian energy consumers.

You will manage research and analytical projects involving large and complex datasets. You will also build stakeholder relationships and communicate complex findings to varied audiences.

A tertiary qualification in economics, data or a related discipline is required.

This is a fixed term position until 30 June 2027. The work location for this position is 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne.

Key accountabilities 

  • Lead economic research and analysis that identifies emerging issues in energy and informs the commission’s strategic and regulatory priorities.
  • Manage projects involving large and complex datasets using advanced analytical tools and programming languages.
  • Provide economic and data insights to support commission statutory reporting, energy reform, licensing, compliance, enforcement and other commission projects.
  • Communicate complex research and analysis clearly to a range of internal and external audiences.
  • Coach and mentor other economists while promoting innovation and high-quality work.

Please refer to the attached position description for the principal functions and key selection criteria.

How to apply 

 

Click the ‘apply now’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application.  

 

All applications should include:  

  • a resume; and 
  • a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria, highlighting your skills and relevant experience in relation to the role. 

 

For further information about the role, please contact Rachael Fry, Director Market Operations via email, rachel.fry@esc.vic.gov.au.

 

Our commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive and flexible workplace  

 

Be part of a highly respected and professional organisation that allows you to apply your knowledge while supporting flexible working arrangements that allow you to balance work and life. You’ll be working in a dynamic and collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.  

 

We are Equal Employment Opportunity employer with inclusive leaders committed to driving a workplace culture that prioritises equity, safety, respect, and flexibility for all staff. We uphold the principles of Aboriginal self-determination in caring for our community.  

 

We welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of any age, gender identity, parental/carer status, ability, religion, or cultural backgrounds.  

 

If you require any adjustments to equitably participate in the recruitment process, or need an alternative format to any of the application material, please contact people.culture@esc.vic.gov.au for support.  

 

Other relevant information 

 

Applicants must have corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period to be appointed to this role. Ongoing positions are only available to Australian/New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents.  

 

Preferred applicants are required to undergo mandatory pre-employment screening, which includes a national criminal history check, right to work verification, qualification checks, statutory declaration disclosing any previous misconduct investigations and declaration of private interests.