ne’s December 2023 jobs report paints a picture of continued stability despite national economic fluctuations. While job growth slowed compared to previous months, the city maintained a low unemployment rate and saw expansion in key sectors like healthcare and professional services.
Highlights:
- Unemployment rate: 3.8%, slightly higher than November’s 3.7% but still indicating a robust labor market. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Job growth: Added 58 new positions, slowing down from November’s 105 but remaining positive. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Key growth sectors: Healthcare and professional services led the way, adding 42 and 37 jobs respectively. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
What Industries and Occupations Grew:
- Healthcare: Hospitals, physician offices, and home healthcare agencies continued to add jobs, fueled by an aging population and increased demand for medical services. (Career Connect @ Get.It)
- Professional Services: Accounting, legal, and engineering firms expanded their teams, reflecting continued business activity in the city. (Career Connect @ Get.It)
- Construction: Despite national slowdowns, Irvine’s construction sector remained steady, adding 18 new positions. (Career Connect @ Get.It)
What Industries and Occupations Shrank:
- Leisure and Hospitality: Restaurants and hotels saw a small decline in jobs, likely due to seasonal factors and ongoing competition. (Career Connect @ Get.It)
- Retail: Brick-and-mortar stores continued to face challenges from online shopping, losing 12 jobs. (Career Connect @ Get.It)
Compare to Same Month Last Year:
- Unemployment rate: Lower than the 3.9% recorded in December 2022, indicating continued economic resilience. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Job growth: Slower compared to the 147 positions added in December 2022, reflecting the national economic slowdown. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Compare to Previous Month:
- Unemployment rate: Up slightly from November’s 3.7%. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Job growth: Lower than November’s 105 new positions. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Future Outlook:
While national economic uncertainty persists, Irvine’s diversified economy and strategic location position it well for continued job growth in key sectors like healthcare, technology, and professional services.
10 Growing Occupations:
- Software Developer
- Registered Nurse
- Marketing Specialist
- Financial Analyst
- Sales Representative
- Customer Service Representative
- Accountant
- Operations Manager
- Human Resources Specialist
- Engineering Manager
10 Companies Hiring Now:
- Pacific Premier Bank
- Irvine Technology Corporation
- TR ACCOUNTANTS
- Pacific Rim Capital
- Edwards Lifesciences
- Blizzard Entertainment
- Broadcom
- Allergan
- Taco Bell
- Amazon
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