Economist: Policy Costings – Pretoria – Department Of Finance

About the Role

The Department of Finance is seeking a dedicated Economist: Policy Costings to join its team in Pretoria. This pivotal role focuses on developing micro simulation models that will underpin critical tax policies, including corporate income tax (CIT), personal income tax (PIT), and value-added tax (VAT). By contributing to the integrity and accuracy of tax data, you will play an essential role in shaping financial strategies that impact all South Africans. As part of the public service, your work will directly influence how taxation is structured, ensuring fairness and efficiency in the revenue collection system.

In this role, you will collaborate closely with various directorates and teams, making your contributions invaluable to the community. With Pretoria being the seat of government, your efforts will resonate at the heart of national financial policy-making. You will assist in the development of tools that estimate the revenue implications of proposed tax reforms, thereby supporting informed decision-making that benefits the country’s economy.

About the Department

The Department of Finance is committed to fostering economic growth and stability in South Africa. Its mission encompasses the development and implementation of sound fiscal policies that ensure the efficient allocation of financial resources. Working within this department means contributing to a vision of a prosperous nation where economic opportunities are accessible to all citizens, ultimately enhancing public service delivery and community well-being.

What You’ll Do

• Develop excel-based micro simulation models for CIT, PIT, and VAT.
• Update and maintain existing micro simulation models regularly.
• Estimate revenue and distributional impacts of proposed tax interventions.
• Collaborate with policy directorates on tax incentive reviews.
• Compile the annual tax review and ensure data accuracy.
• Coordinate input from the Tax Policy unit for publication integrity.
• Assist with international research on tax expenditure reporting practices.
• Support the South African Revenue Service (SARS) in compiling statistical data.
• Provide analytical support for modeling economic impacts of tax proposals.

What You’ll Need

• Grade 12 and a minimum National Diploma in Economics, Accounting, Finance, or Information Systems (equivalent to NQF level 6 or 7).
• At least 3 years of experience in a tax or tax data revenue management environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the broader tax policy framework.
• Experience with data dissemination and maintaining data integrity.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.