The December 2023 jobs report for Colorado Springs paints a picture of a stable labor market with encouraging signs of growth, despite national economic uncertainties. While job creation slowed compared to previous months, key sectors continued to expand, offering opportunities for job seekers.
Highlights:
- Unemployment holds steady: The rate remained at 3.4%, signaling a competitive job market with potential for qualified candidates.
- Job growth slows, but remains positive: Nonfarm jobs added 300 positions, reaching 2,914,000, marking a decrease from prior months’ momentum.
- Professional and Business Services lead the way: This sector added 100 jobs, encompassing areas like finance, technology, and consulting. Accountants, marketing specialists, and IT professionals could see opportunities.
What Industries and Occupations Grew:
- Professional and Business Services: This sector added 100 jobs, showcasing potential growth in finance, technology, consulting, and other professional services. Accountants, marketing specialists, and IT professionals might benefit.
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: This sector added 50 jobs, potentially tied to expansion in warehousing, logistics, and retail trade. Warehouse associates, truck drivers, and retail salespersons could be in demand.
What Industries and Occupations Shrank:
- No industries reported significant job losses in December 2023. Some seasonal positions in leisure and hospitality might have ended with the holiday season.
Compare to Same Month Last Year:
- Unemployment rate: Lower than 3.7% in December 2022, highlighting a slight improvement in the labor market.
- Nonfarm job growth: Lower than the 800 jobs added in December 2022, showcasing a deceleration in hiring compared to the previous year.
Compare to Previous Month:
- Unemployment rate: Unchanged from November 2023, indicating stability in the labor market.
- Nonfarm job growth: Significantly lower than the 1,200 jobs added in November 2023, marking a slowdown in hiring.
Future Outlook:
Experts offer cautiously optimistic predictions for Colorado Springs’ job market in 2024. The stable unemployment rate and growth in key sectors suggest potential resilience. However, monitoring national economic trends and their impact on specific industries, especially construction and tourism, is crucial. Professional services, trade, and leisure and hospitality could offer opportunities, while adaptability will be key in navigating potential shifts.
10 Growing Occupations in Colorado Springs, CO:
- Registered Nurses
- Software Developers and Applications Developers
- Customer Service Representatives
- Sales Representatives
- Marketing Specialists
- Accountants and Auditors
- Construction Laborers
- Truck Drivers
- Teachers
- Physical Therapists
10 Companies Hiring Now in Colorado Springs, CO:
- The Boeing Company
- USAA
- Centura Health
- Ball Corporation
- Lockheed Martin
- UCHealth
- Memorial Health System
- The Broadmoor Hotel
- Academy School District 20
- El Paso County
Sources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics – Colorado Springs, CO MSA
- Colorado Department of Labor and Employment – December 2023 Labor Market Report
- Indeed Hiring in Colorado Springs, CO
- Glassdoor Jobs in Colorado Springs, CO