Analyst, Planning & Land Economics

Who we are At Watson & Associates Economists Ltd.

• (Watson), we provide data-driven insights to help municipalities and school boards make informed decisions.

We focus on financial and economic analysis to develop solutions in municipal finance, education and land economics, including demographic forecasting, development charge studies, economic assessments, long-term financial planning, school board accommodation planning, and ward boundary studies. For the past four decades, we have led the industry by evolving our offerings to meet the needs of our public sector clients.

Across Canada, Watson has worked closely with over 344 municipalities, utilities and school boards to grow and sustain better economies and communities.

Our clients partner with us to identify and solve complex challenges, make informed strategic choices and better understand the long-term outcomes.

We work to protect the economic assets and interests of every client we serve.

Our ability to collect, distill and interpret the right data allows us to develop key insights and strategic solutions that make a difference.

Our cross-functional team of municipal economists, urban planners, and accountants is responsive, collaborative, and innovative, and we are dedicated to producing the highest quality results for our clients.

Recognized as a leading authority on the fiscal policy and land economics matters of the municipal government and school board sector, Watson is known for achieving results that translate into successful client outcomes. We have earned our reputation for quality of analysis, as well as pragmatic and insightful interpretation of the issues we address.

Joining us now is a chance to be part of a dynamic team of specialists who are respected and sought out for our expertise.

Who we need Our Planning & Land Economics team helps municipalities and government agencies understand how communities grow and how to plan for that growth.

Through demographic forecasting, housing and real estate market analysis, employment land strategies, economic impact assessments, and growth management studies, the team delivers the analysis and insights needed to support evidence-based planning and long-term decision-making. Reporting to the Manager, we are hiring an Analyst to join our Planning & Land Economics team.

As our new Analyst, you will contribute to a wide range of consulting projects that help municipalities and government organizations make informed planning and investment decisions.

You will apply quantitative analysis, statistical modelling, and research to support population, housing, employment, land use, and economic studies, working across multiple projects at once while collaborating with Consultants and Project Managers to deliver meaningful insights for clients.

This is an existing full-time position operating within a hybrid work environment.

What's in it for you?

Variety and impact.

No two days are the same.

You will contribute to a diverse portfolio of projects spanning demographic forecasting, housing and real estate market analysis, growth management, economic impact assessments, and land use planning.

Your analysis will help municipalities and government agencies make informed decisions that shape communities across Canada.

Develop deep analytical expertise.

This is an opportunity to strengthen your skills in quantitative analysis, statistical modelling, and data interpretation while working alongside experienced economists, planners, and consultants.

You will gain exposure to advanced modelling techniques, GIS, and emerging analytical tools, building expertise that is highly transferable across consulting, economics, and public policy.

Flexibility and collaboration.

Join a collaborative team that values curiosity, knowledge sharing, and thoughtful problem-solving.

With a flexible hybrid work model and the opportunity to work across a wide variety of projects, you will have the support, autonomy, and exposure to continue growing your expertise.

As our new Analyst, Planning & Land Economics, you will: Analyze complex data.

You will gather, interpret, and analyze demographic, economic, housing, employment, and land use data to support a wide range of client projects.

Using quantitative analysis, statistical modelling, and forecasting techniques, you will transform complex information into meaningful insights that support evidence-based decision-making.

Build models and deliver insights.

You will develop and maintain analytical models, conduct research, and prepare reports, presentations, and technical documentation.

Working closely with Consultants and Project Managers, you will communicate findings clearly and contribute to recommendations that help clients address growth, infrastructure, and planning challenges.

Collaborate across diverse projects.

You will work on multiple assignments simultaneously, partnering with colleagues across the Planning & Land Economics team to deliver high-quality consulting services.

As you build your expertise, you will gain exposure to GIS, emerging analytical tools, and a broad range of projects supporting municipalities, school boards, government agencies, and private sector clients.

You have: The analytical foundation.

You have developed strong quantitative and analytical skills through a Bachelor's or Master's degree in economics, geography, mathematics, statistics, econometrics, urban planning, or a related discipline, or through a combination of education and practical experience.

More importantly, you are comfortable working with data, identifying patterns, building models, and using evidence to solve complex problems.

The technical skills.

You have advanced Excel skills and experience using spreadsheets to analyze, model, and interpret data.

Exposure to GIS, Python, SQL, or other analytical tools is considered an asset, but you are eager to learn new technologies and continuously expand your technical capabilities.

The communication skills.

You can translate complex data into clear, concise reports, presentations, and recommendations tailored to different audiences.

You enjoy collaborating with others, asking thoughtful questions, and contributing to projects that require both independent analysis and teamwork.

The mindset.

You are curious, accountable, and motivated by solving challenging problems.

You thrive in environments where priorities shift, enjoy working across multiple projects, and are excited by the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to meaningful work that helps shape communities.

Join Us At Watson, we are more than a professional services consulting firm—we are a community of experts dedicated to making a meaningful impact in municipal government and education.

Over the past 40 years, we have grown from a one-person firm into a thriving team of over 40 professionals.

Our success is rooted in mentorship, transparency, and a commitment to developing future partners.

We ensure sustainability and shared success by focusing on building expertise across our organization.

We believe in growing talent from within, offering clear paths for career progression, regular mentorship, and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the continued development of Watson.

From annual business plan discussions to transparent performance reviews, we prioritize knowledge sharing and professional growth.

At Watson, you will join a legacy of collaboration and innovation supported by a culture that empowers every team member to thrive.

Compensation This permanent, full-time role offers a salary range of $62,000–$68,000, reflecting the current scope and responsibilities of the position.

As the role evolves and your impact grows, compensation is reviewed to ensure it continues to align with your responsibilities, contributions, and market conditions. We are intentional about creating opportunities for growth—both in the work you do and how you are rewarded for it.

Apply Now If you have 70% of what we are looking for, apply now.

We can't promise an interview, but we will consider your application.

What you can expect from our interview process: A virtual interview with a Talent Advisor to discuss your interest in joining Watson & Associates Economists Ltd.

and the role.

The conversation will be recorded using BrightHire, an AI-powered video interview tool.

More details will be shared when you are invited to interview.

An in person interview with the Manager, Planning & Land Economics and the Managing Partner, Planning & Land Economics.

You will have the opportunity to discuss your experience, learn more about the role and the team, and gain insight into our culture.

As part of this stage, you may be asked to complete a technical assessment designed to evaluate your technical proficiency and your ability to analyze, interpret, and summarize data.

Watson is firmly committed to diversity within its community and welcomes applications from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous People of North America and the world, veterans, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

We are committed to providing accessible employment practices that comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act ('AODA').

If you require accommodations at any stage of the interview process, please email us at careers@watsonecon.ca.

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