Texas grew by an estimated 21,400 nonfarm jobs in August. The state has added jobs in 16 of the last 17 months. Texas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 4.7 percent in August, up slightly from 4.6 percent in July, and remained below the national rate of 4.9 percent.
“Texas employers added 190,600 jobs over the past year, with the diversity of our economy highlighted by nine out of eleven industries adding jobs,” said Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Andres Alcantar. “TWC will continue to build partnerships that provide workers with in-demand skills to boost job creation.”
The Financial Activities industry recorded the largest industry employment gain over the month with 6,200 jobs added. Trade, Transportation and Utilities employment added 4,000 jobs in August. Construction employment expanded for the second consecutive month with the addition of 1,300 jobs.
“Private-sector employment was strong over the year with the overall job growth of 150,900 and 18,500 jobs added in August,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ruth R. Hughs. “The fact that our state has added jobs for 16 of the last 17 months is a credit to the diversity and resilience of employers in Texas.”
The Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded the lowest unemployment rate for August with a 3.4 percent rate for the month. The Austin-Round Rock MSA had the second-lowest rate at 3.5 percent followed by the Lubbock MSA with a rate of 3.8 percent.
“Texas workers have much to offer and there are resources available to help them find the perfect occupational fit, I encourage all job seekers to contact their local Workforce Solutions office for assistance with job training and placement,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez.
(News release from the Texas Workforce Commission)
