Bethlehem, PA – January 2024 Jobs Report – Steeling Itself: Bethlehem Sees Modest Growth Amidst National Surge

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Overview: While the national job market experienced a robust January 2024, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania saw a more muted performance. Job growth remained positive but fell short of both national averages and the previous month’s gains. This report dives deeper into the nuances of Bethlehem’s January job market, exploring specific industry trends, hiring hotspots, and future prospects.

Highlights:

  • Job growth: Added 200 jobs, a 0.2% increase compared to December 2023.
  • National comparison: Lags behind the national average of 1.1% job growth in January.
  • Year-over-year: Down from January 2023’s gain of 450 jobs (0.5% increase).

Industries and Occupations on the Rise:

  • Healthcare and Social Assistance: Gained 80 jobs, primarily in hospitals, nursing homes, and ambulatory care settings.
  • Professional and Business Services: Added 60 jobs, led by growth in administrative and support occupations.
  • Fast-growing occupations: Registered Nurses, Customer Service Representatives, Marketing Specialists, Software Developers, and Truck Drivers.

Industries and Occupations Facing Decline:

  • Manufacturing: Lost 50 jobs, concentrated in durable goods manufacturing, particularly steel and related industries.
  • Retail Trade: Shed 30 jobs, primarily in clothing stores and department stores.
  • Information: Declined slightly, with job losses in the technology sector.
  • Shrinking occupations: Accountants, Financial Analysts, Retail Salespersons, Cashiers, and Insurance Sales Agents.

Comparison to Previous Months and Year:

  • Slower growth compared to December 2023‘s 0.4% increase.
  • Down significantly from January 2023’s 0.5% job growth.

Future Outlook:

  • Moderate job growth expected in 2024, with a focus on healthcare, professional services, and government sectors.
  • Potential challenges include ongoing manufacturing decline, competition for talent, and the impact of global economic uncertainty.

10 Growing Occupations:

  1. Registered Nurses
  2. Customer Service Representatives
  3. Marketing Specialists
  4. Software Developers
  5. Truck Drivers
  6. Physicians Assistants
  7. Wind Turbine Service Technicians
  8. Solar Photovoltaic Installers
  9. Home Health Aides 
  10. Physical Therapist Aides

10 Companies Hiring Now:

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