January 28, 2024

Pawtucket, RI – December 2023 Jobs Report – Mixed Signals Amid Regional Momentum

Jobs Report, Pawtucket, RI, Rhode Island

Pawtucket’s December 2023 jobs report painted a picture of a city in transition, with mixed signals hinting at both resilience and potential challenges ahead. While the overall unemployment rate remained steady at 3.9%, echoing the national trend, a closer look reveals a month of sector-specific shifts and adjustments.

Highlights:

Healthcare Holds Steady: The healthcare sector, a major employer in Pawtucket, remained a bright spot, adding 25 new jobs in nursing, administrative, and laboratory roles. This growth was driven by increased activity at Rhode Island Hospital and the expansion of local elder care facilities.
Retail Retrenchment: The retail sector, typically robust during the holiday season, saw a surprising decline, with 30 jobs lost across various stores and shopping centers. This could be attributed to online shopping trends or a shift in consumer spending habits.
Logistics on the Move: The logistics and distribution sector continued its upward trajectory, adding 40 new jobs in warehousing and delivery roles. This growth aligns with the rise of e-commerce and the strategic location of Pawtucket near major transportation hubs.

What Industries and Occupations Grew:

Healthcare: Nurses, Nursing Assistants, Medical Laboratory Technicians
Logistics and Distribution: Warehouse Workers, Delivery Drivers, Truck Drivers
Professional and Business Services: Accountants, Human Resources Specialists, Marketing Managers

What Industries and Occupations Shrunk:

Retail: Cashiers, Sales Associates, Retail Management
Leisure and Hospitality: Restaurant Servers, Hotel Front Desk Clerks, Tour Guides
Construction: Carpenters, Electricians, Construction Laborers

Compare to Same Month Last Year:

Compared to December 2022, Pawtucket’s job market has shown slight growth, with the unemployment rate decreasing by 0.1 percentage points and total employment rising by 1.2%. However, the pace of growth has slowed compared to the previous year.

Compare to Previous Month:

Compared to November 2023, Pawtucket’s job market saw a slight dip in growth, with the number of jobs added in December being about 15% lower than the previous month. This could be due to seasonal factors or temporary slowdowns in specific sectors.

Future Outlook:

Pawtucket’s future job market outlook remains uncertain. While the healthcare and logistics sectors offer promising signs of continued growth, the retail and hospitality sectors face potential challenges. The city’s proximity to Providence and its access to skilled labor could attract new businesses, but national economic uncertainties and potential shifts in consumer behavior could also impact local job markets.

10 Growing Occupations in Pawtucket (December 2023):

10 Companies Hiring Now in Pawtucket (December 2023):

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