WASHINGTON – U.S. job openings pulled back in February from a near-record in the previous month, as employers had some success in filling vacancies and became more reluctant to dismiss workers, Labor Department data showed Friday.
Highlights of February job openings
The number of positions waiting to be filled decreased by 176,000 to 6.1 million (estimates had averaged 6 million) from a downwardly revised 6.2 million in January.
Key takeaways
The decline in February job postings may help explain jobs data for the month showing a 326,000 gain in nonfarm payrolls, the biggest gain since 2015, suggesting employers found qualified workers. The JOLTS report adds context to monthly payrolls figures by measuring dynamics such as resignations, layoffs and the pace of hiring.
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The drop in openings reflected declines in accommodation and food services, as well as construction; trade, transportation and utilities; and professional and business services. Vacancies increased in finance and insurance; health care and social assistance; and state and local government.
The Labor Department’s March employment report, released last week, showed that despite a weaker pace of hiring, the unemployment rate remained at 4.1 percent, the lowest since 2000.
Other details
There were 1.1 unemployed people vying for every opening in February, compared with 1.9 people when the recession began at the end of 2007.
In the 12 months through February, the economy created a net 2.3 million jobs, representing 65.6 million hires and 63.3 million separations.
