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Central Texas sees increase in jobs, job seekers
Employment numbers are steadily climbing across the country.
AUSTIN, Texas - More than 500 thousand jobs are available in Texas, the highest in months after the state took an economic hit at the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
Workforce Solutions is helping more employers get Texans back to work.
“This past month we’ve posted almost 700 jobs and we are posting and updating them on a daily basis,” said Leslie Puckett, Director of Research and Career Awareness of Workforce Solutions Capital Area.
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The healthcare industry has the highest demand for workers and is currently hiring medical assistants and nurses. Now that Texas is in phase three of safely re-opening, businesses have opened up their doors at limited capacity. Puckett said it’s causing a hiring uptick in two other industry sectors.
“We have seen the construction industry and we are also seeing some in the hospitality industry as people are starting to travel, stay in hotels and visit restaurants on a limited basis,” said Puckett.
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The latest U.S job report shows 2.5 million jobs available in May and an unemployment rate steadily dropping at 13.3 percent. Texas Workforce Commission will report May’s unemployment rate on June 19th. In the meantime, the agency has been working with Workforce Solutions on providing employment assistance.
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Gov. Abbott announces Phase III to Open Texas
Under Phase III, effective immediately, all Texas businesses will be allowed to operate at up to 50% capacity with limited exceptions. Furthermore, businesses previously allowed to operate at 100% capacity may continue to do so.
RELATED: Texas Supreme Court declines to hear Austin appeal in paid sick leave case
Workforce Solutions Capital Area has teamed up with Austin Community College on certification programs. Puckett said the organization is also offering training and apprenticeship programs. The focus now is providing resources online. Workforce Solutions hosts webinars and roundtable discussions with employers.
“We have a lot of virtual job fairs coming up and employers are still hiring so I would encourage people to check those out and learn about all the different job opportunities available today,” Puckett said.
RELATED: Emergency SNAP benefits in Texas extended during COVID-19 pandemic
A virtual job fair is scheduled for June 17 geared towards people 18 to 24 years old. A list of immediate job openings and career opportunities can be found here http://www.wfscapitalarea.com
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