US Bureau of Economic Analysis Interview Questions
& Process

The interview was very methodical and dry. Although I was applying for a position that requires this type of thinking, the interview was serious in tone. It mainly involved my ability to enhance the methodology of how macroeconomic data is processed and how to ensure its validity. To do this, one must know how this has been done in the past using a programming language such as SAS.

I got a call from HR and had to pay for my own travel to interview with three different divisions: Regional Economics, Balance of Payments, and International Investments. I first met with a lady in Regional Economics and her boss, the section chief. It was a standard skills interview, and I felt I did pretty well, honestly thinking I was a top candidate. Then, I interviewed at Balance of Payments, where they are really top-notch folks. They asked me a lot about current accounts, GDP, and similar topics, and they also explained a lot to me. I was interviewed by the branch chief and two economists, and then later by the section chief. Finally, I interviewed at International Investment, but it only took about five minutes because I didn't like what they do. I told them straight up I wasn't interested in working for them, and they understood.

I applied online and then got an email saying I was invited to interview. We set up a time and I had a one-on-one meeting with someone. The interview was pretty standard, mostly discussing my resume and what my responsibilities would be. My initial impression was that the organization seemed a bit disorganized. I got an unofficial offer in early September and am still waiting for the official paperwork from HR. I felt like they offered me the role mainly because my availability worked for them, not necessarily due to my other skills.

after applying online, I got an email to schedule and then did a panel interview with 7 people. The interview was all behavioral questions. I noticed 3 red flags during the process. First, they didn't tell me who I'd be interviewing with beforehand, which is unusual. Second, when they gave me a verbal offer, they expected a decision that same day or on Tuesday, and wouldn't give me more than 3 days to decide. They also wouldn't send a formal offer letter until I accepted, which is not standard. Usually, you get an offer letter before a call and have 2 weeks to decide. I felt rushed to decide without any documentation. Third, when I tried to negotiate salary, my email was forwarded to management, and the director asked for references and my current salary, neither of which were on my resume. They claimed reference checks are done last, before the offer, and asking for current salary is illegal in Maryland, as it prohibits employers from using wage history for employment decisions. I've never been asked my current salary before.