July unemployment rate rises as more people decide to go back to work - Aug. 14, 2007

07-060

Media contacts: Evelina Tainer, 360-438-4812
Caitlin Cormier, 360-902-9215

Audio: http://fortress.wa.gov/esd/portal/info/newsroom/audiofiles/audionews

OLYMPIA – Washington’s unemployment rate rose to 4.9 percent in July from June’s rate of 4.5 percent, according to the state Employment Security Department.  

The number of non-agricultural jobs grew by 7,800 last month (seasonally adjusted). But the labor force, which includes not only those with jobs but also those who are looking for work, grew even faster. 

That pushed Washington’s unemployment rate up slightly, although it still remains near historic lows.  

“Washington’s economy is still going strong and that is reflected in the number of people who want to join the work force and in the number of new jobs being created,” said Governor Chris Gregoire.  “We are seeing all parts of the state benefit from this continued growth.”

The pace of growth among various industries was mixed in July, but gains far outpaced losses.  Industries with the largest employment growth in July were government, with 2,600 new jobs, professional and business services, up 1,500, and manufacturing, with 1,000 new jobs. 

In Washington, the construction industry remains a top job producer. Construction payrolls increased by 500 in July and have not declined since July 2006. Construction remains robust in Washington, despite weakening in the United States over all since February.

Among major industry sectors, the largest declines were reported in leisure and hospitality, down 700, retail trade, down 200, and education and health services, down 100. 

Since July 2006, 89,100 net new jobs were created in Washington.  Over all, non-agricultural job growth increased by 3.1 percent, compared to a national rate increase of 1.4 percent.  This was the fastest year-over-year growth rate since September 2006, when employment posted a 3.3 percent growth over the prior year.

“The higher unemployment rate during these strong economic times shows that more people are getting out there and looking for jobs,” said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee. “Anyone who needs a refresher on writing a resume, conducting a job interview or finding the right job should visit a local WorkSource center for assistance.  We can help make the job-search process go faster and smoother.” 

An estimated 160,800 people (not seasonally adjusted) currently are unemployed and seeking work in Washington. Free job-readiness and job-search assistance is available online at go2worksource.com and at local WorkSource offices.

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