Unemployment figures
Big Thicket Messenger - November 2007

Statewide, the unemployment rate continues to fall and new jobs are being added in profession and business services sectors.

When seasonal factors are calculated to the equation, the state’s September unemployment was 4.3%, down slightly from the 4.2% rate posted in August. The latest seasonally adjusted rate was down from the 4.8% rate recorded in September 2006.

In the report, TWC officials noted seasonally adjusted nonagricultural employment in Texas grew by 23,200 jobs in September, for a total of 217,400 jobs in the past year.

 “Our continued job growth reflects the state’s solid economic foundation and remains the best indicator of a strong Texas economy,” said TWC Chair Diane Rath. “At 4.3%, the Texas unemployment rate remains well below the national unemployment rate of 4.7%.”

Trade, Transportation and Utilities employment recorded the largest over the month gain since November 2005, adding 10,700 jobs in September.

Professional and Business Services posted gains of 5,800 positions in September, producing 65,700 positions since last year for an annual growth rate of 5.3%.

 “Texas employers continue to spark the state’s economy with the annual job growth rate of 2.2%, well above the national rate of 1.2%.,” said TWC Employer Ron Lehman. “Texas’ significantly outpaces the nation in job growth in Industries such as Construction, Professional and Business Services, plus Natural Resources and Mining.”

The Construction Industry spurred job growth again this month, adding 3,800 jobs in September and bringing 17,200 positions to the state since last year.

Education and Health Services employment also showed strong results with a growth of 3,100 positions, for a total of 25,900 jobs over the year.

Leisure and Hospitality added 4,200 positions this month, an increase of 39,900 jobs since September 2006.

“Texas workers and job seekers can find opportunities in almost every field with job growth across most industries,” said TWC Labor Commissioner Ronny Congleton. “Now is the perfect time to find new jobs or improve careers.