Economist - Green Jobs & Skilling

Economist – Green Jobs & Skilling

Reference Code: JT/NCR-04-03/25

Role Summary: We are seeking looking for an economist to work on the organization’s research and engagement on Green Jobs and Skilling related to just energy transition. Given the role, the candidate must have proficiency in handling labour and workforce related datasets. Also, understanding of skill evaluation frameworks and their application is highly desirable.

Location: Noida, India

About iFOREST

iFOREST is an independent non-profit research and innovation organization. Our work is guided by a commitment to sustainability and equity, ensuring that our solutions are socially just and environmentally responsible. The core foundation of our work is rooted in regional priorities to accelerate environmental actions at the sub-national level and to improve national policies and plans to support it. At our core, we are a regional organization with a national focus and an international reach. Our mission is to address the unique needs of regions by leveraging our resources and expertise to scale up national action and make a global impact.

Required Experience: 5-7 years (minimum) relevant work experience.

Required Educational Qualification

• Minimum Master’s degree in Economics, with specializations in Labour, Development Economics, Applied Economics, or related discipline.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Clear understanding of labour-related data and experience in working with such datasets.
• Understanding of Indian skilling ecosystem, including NSDC, National council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET)Sector Skill Councils (SSCs), and especially the Skill Council for Green Jobs.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting skill gap studies across sectors, with a strong grounding in quantitative and qualitative labour market analysis.
• Understanding of skilling, reskilling, upskilling and skill development ecosystem in India. Knowledge of skill evaluation frameworks and their application is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with tools such as Labour Market Information system (LMIS), employer surveys, value chain assessments, or occupational mapping.Experience conducting job role mapping and occupational transition analysis for workforce moving from fossil fuel-based sectors to green industries.
• Strong research background with proficiency in research methods and data analysis techniques.
• Proven ability to assess demand-supply dynamics of workforce transition, especially within the context clean energy sectors (e.g., solar, wind, bioenergy), climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable industries.
• Sound understanding of government datasets related to the workforce and labor market surveys.
• Knowledge of India’s skilling landscape including programs, implementation agencies, and infrastructure.
• Experience in conducting and guiding primary research.
• Proven ability to engage with government entities and industry representatives.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Flexibility and readiness to take on responsibilities as needed.
• Experience in working with national data sets such as NSSO, PLS is an advantage

Key Responsibilities

Research and Outputs

• Undertake and lead research projects, focusing on Green Jobs and Skilling. This will include both quantitative and qualitative research.
• Develop research methodologies for employment assessment in various clean energy sectors as needed.
• Design and execute primary survey. This includes, but not limited to, designing the survey instruments, devising a robust sampling strategy, training of the enumerators and coordination with survey agency (as needed)
• Develop research reports, policy briefs, technical documents, and factsheets.
• Ensure the quality and timely execution of all project activities and deliverables.
• Develop materials for disseminating research findings, including presentations, articles, and media decks.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and leverage networks with key stakeholders such as government bodies, industries, skilling agencies and CSOs.
• Conduct high-level meetings and deliver presentations to further program objectives.
• Design and facilitate public events, roundtables, and policy engagement meetings.
• Represent iFOREST perspectives and insights in key meetings.

Other Duties

• Provide day-to-day team management and guidance to research associates.
• Support the development of proposals in coordination with programme directors.
• Represent iFOREST on public platforms to enhance institutional brand and impact.

Why Choose iFOREST

• Purpose-driven work: Contribute from regional to national and global goals in sustainability.
• Professional development: Work in areas that address contemporary and critical issues.
• Competitive compensation: We recognize and reward commitment and talent.
• Inclusive culture: Experience a supportive, diverse, and empowering work environment.

Remuneration

• Competitive salary based on experience and proficiency. The final designation will depend on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Application Instructions

• Immediate opening: Position open until filled.
• Application Submission: Please apply online at iFOREST Careers or via LinkedIn. If you encounter any issues, you may send your application to contact@iforest.global. Please mention reference code (JT/NCR-04-03/25) in the subject line.
• Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.