Kent’s job market held firm in December 2023, showcasing resilience against national slowdown concerns. While year-over-year growth moderated compared to previous months, the city added jobs across diverse sectors, indicating a robust and adaptable economy.
Highlights:
- 51,689 jobs posted in December: This represents a slight decrease from November’s 52,431 openings but remains significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.
- Unemployment rate at 3.2%: This figure aligns with the national average and reflects continued strong demand for workers.
- Broad-based growth: Job gains were observed in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and retail.
Industries and Occupations on the Rise:
- Healthcare: Added the most jobs (6,542), driven by increasing demand for nurses, aides, and medical technicians.
- Manufacturing: Gained 2,317 jobs, particularly in aerospace, automotive, and food processing sectors.
- Logistics: Expanded by 1,874 positions, fueled by e-commerce growth and international trade activity.
- Retail: Increased by 1,205 jobs, with hiring concentrated in holiday shopping and warehouse operations.
Industries and Occupations Facing Challenges:
- Construction: Witnessed a slight decline (321 jobs) likely due to seasonal fluctuations and project completion cycles.
- Leisure and hospitality: Shed 148 jobs, potentially reflecting post-holiday adjustments and automation trends.
Compared to December 2022:
- Overall job growth was slower, with a 3.4% increase compared to December 2022’s 5.8%.
- Healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics maintained their top growth positions.
- Construction and leisure & hospitality experienced similar trends, with construction facing a larger decline in 2023.
Compared to November 2023:
- December saw a slight decrease in job postings (1.4%).
- Healthcare and manufacturing hiring remained consistent, while logistics and retail experienced a minor dip.
- Construction and leisure & hospitality trends held steady compared to November.
Future Outlook:
- Kent’s economy is expected to maintain its growth trajectory in 2024, albeit at a moderate pace.
- Healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics are projected to continue adding jobs, reflecting ongoing industry trends.
- Construction and leisure & hospitality might see slower growth or potential fluctuations.
10 Growing Occupations in Kent, WA (December 2023):
- Registered Nurses
- Customer Service Representatives
- Software Developers and Applications
- Truck Drivers
- Retail Salespersons
- Warehouse Associates
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Construction Managers
- Personal Care Aides
- Marketing Specialists
10 Companies Hiring Now in Kent, WA (December 2023):
- Amazon
- Boeing
- PACCAR
- Providence Health & Services
- Starbucks
- Walmart
- Target
- Costco Wholesale
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
Resources:
- City of Kent Economic Development
- Washington State Employment Security Department
- Indeed