Economic Analyst

JOB PURPOSE

To plan, design and conduct research to aid in the analysis and risking of the relationships between economic factors and issues/problems relating to tax compliance and related activities. This includes building economic models to enhance research and analysis of tax related data and the use of economic concepts, theories and analytical techniques to provide information/ support to Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) in order to optimize revenue collections. 

KEY OUTPUTS

• Economic data analysed; 
• Economic models to aid research and analysis of tax related data developed; 
• Research and analytical activities conducted; 
• Industry profiles developed; 
• Inputs into the development and review of risk models provided;
• Reports prepared and submitted. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

Technical and Professional Duties 

• Plans, designs and conducts research to aid in interpretation of economic relationships and in solution of problems relating to tax compliance and related activities; 
• Devises methods and procedures for collecting and processing data, utilizing knowledge of available sources of data and various econometric and sampling techniques; 
• Uses data mining techniques in the analysis of economic data to aid improvement in the identity and collection of tax revenue that is due; 
• Analyzes economic data to inform and guide the nature and extent of taxpayer service delivery within economic or business sectors; 
• Builds economic models that aid the research and analysis of tax related data; 
• Identifies and quantifies relationships between different taxpayers, various taxpayer types and taxpayer profiles; 
• Collects and incorporates into the database aggregate, information on groups of taxpayers, such as national income and product account information and information on particular industries; 
• Maintains knowledge of current tax policy and economic issues and identifies research opportunities to advance the tax compliance agenda; 
• Reviews and analyzes economic data in order to give estimates of the national domestic tax gap; prepares reports detailing results of investigation and stays abreast of economic changes; 
• Organizes data into appropriate reporting format and arranges for the preparation of research findings for various stakeholders; 
• Participates in the review of risk models relating to payments, debt, refund claims, audits and other variables; 
• Formulates recommendations, policies or plans to aid interpretation or solution of particular problems to support the strategic objectives of TAJ; 
• Supports the identification and management of risks within the organization and by extension the respective area of work; 
• Performs other related duties assigned by the Director, FDU. 

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

This job is satisfactorily performed when: 

• Economic data is analysed and interpreted in a manner that contributes to improvement in tax compliance and related activities; 
• Database on the relationships between taxpayers and related companies is developed and maintained according to agreed standards; 
• Research and analytical economic activities are conducted in accordance with stipulated guidelines and specified timeline; 
• Industry profiles are developed and submitted within the prescribed timeline; 
• Research opportunities to advance tax compliance agenda are identified and shared with the relevant parties;
• Significant inputs are provided in the development and review of risk models; 
• Reports prepared and submitted in keeping with established standard and agreed timelines. 

AUTHORITY TO:

• Access confidential information; 
• Conduct research and make recommendations; 
• Recommend amendments to procedures.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Specific Knowledge 

• Excellent knowledge and understanding of economic theory; 
• Excellent knowledge of theory, system and application of statistical research methods; 
• Excellent knowledge of statistical software and computer systems and the relevant applications; 
• Very good knowledge of econometrics; 
• Working knowledge of Tax Administration Jamaica operations and functions; 

Required Skills and Specialised Techniques 

• Excellent decision-making, planning and organizing skills; 
• Excellent judgement, and analytical skills; 
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and team building skills;
• Excellent quantitative skill; 
• Very good time management skill. 

Qualification and Experience 

• BSc Degree in Economics with a good appreciation for statistics and accounts or the equivalent qualifications; 
• Three (3) years experience in a related field. 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Normal office environment; 
• Travel (25%).

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.