Economist Erin Weir has joined the race to lead Saskatchewan's New Democratic Party.

Weir, 30, who was born in Saskatoon, grew up in Regina and has in recent years lived in Ontario, announced Friday he's in the running.

The party's top spot opened up after former leader Dwain Lingenfelter lost his own seat in the 2011 election. Veteran MLA John Nilson has been the interim leader.

In making the announcement, Weir pointed to his experience with the NDP, as a former president of the party's youth wing and a candidate for Wascana in the 2004 federal election won by Liberal Ralph Goodale.

Weir said he will not attack Premier Brad Wall personally, saying that was one of the biggest mistakes the previous NDP leader made.

"Instead we need to go after the Sask Party's agenda and propose policy alternatives," he said. "We need to articulate what the government is doing wrong and what we as New Democrats would do differently."

Weir is the second person to announce he's a candidate.

Earlier this week, Saskatoon MLA Cam Broten, 34, threw his hat in the ring.

Party members will elect a new leader next March.