US job openings increase in January
Employers in the U.S. posted slightly more jobs in January despite harsh weather in many parts of the country, a positive sign for the labor market in coming months.
Job openings rose to nearly 4 million in January, a 1.5% increase from the month before, the Labor Department said Tuesday. That was just south of November's five-year high of 4.1 million.
Leisure and hospitality added 156,000 net openings in the first month of 2014. Construction opened up 32,000 extra slots, while education and health services added 65,000 openings.
PHOTOS: World's most expensive cities
The Tuesday report estimated that for every open job, there are about 2.6 unemployed U.S. workers. That's a big improvement from the 2009 peak of 6.7 jobless Americans per open position.
However, not all the news was rosy.
Hiring overall actually fell 0.9%, to 4.5 million, from the month prior. Although more companies are posting open positions, many are still taking their time and hiring carefully.
PHOTOS: Richest and poorest cities in America
The U.S. economy in January added 129,000 net new jobs, the second straight month of weak gains. But February perked up with a surprisingly robust 175,000 new jobs despite continued snowstorms and bad weather.
ALSO: For DWP customers, a long wait to go solar Grocery chain Safeway in talks to sell itself More than 1 in 4 Americans go to work while sick
We've upgraded our reader commenting system. Learn more about the new features.
Los Angeles Times welcomes civil dialogue about our stories; you must register with the site to participate. We filter comments for language and adherence to our Terms of Service, but not for factual accuracy. By commenting, you agree to these legal terms. Please flag inappropriate comments.
Having technical problems? Check here for guidance.
Post a Comment for "US job openings increase in January"