Simply Hired’s Employment Outlook Shows Increase in Openings in July 2014

 Simply Hired today released its August 2014 U.S. Employment Outlook report, which finds that nationwide job openings grew 1.74 percent month-over-month in July 2014. Nearly all of the largest U.S. metros (23 out of 25) experienced an increase in job openings over this period. Three-quarters of all industries (14 out of 18) also posted gains, led by technology (7.72 percent), hospitality (7.31 percent), and retail (6.96 percent).

“The Simply Hired August Employment Outlook shows clear improvement in the U.S. job market this summer, with a 10.6% surge in job listings in June 2014 and an additional 1.74 percent increase in July 2014,” James Beriker, president and CEO of Simply Hired, said. “We’re seeing broad-based growth across metros, industries and occupations, and paying close attention to gain in the retail sector as merchants begin to ramp up seasonal hiring plans.”

Key findings from the monthly report include:

• Twenty-three of the 25 largest U.S. metros saw an increase in job openings between June and July 2014. Sacramento, CA (3.58 percent), Pittsburgh, PA (3.56 percent) and Tampa & St. Petersburg, FL (3.07 percent) posted the largest gains. Minneapolis, MN (- 0.05 percent) and St. Paul, MO (- 1.47 percent) experienced the only declines in this group.

• Job openings increased in 14 out of 18 industries in July 2014, with technology (7.72 percent), hospitality (7.31 percent), and retail (6.96 percent) showing the largest month-over-month gains. Most occupation categories (45 out of 54) also experienced growth in job openings, led by psychologist (10.42 percent) and equipment installation (5.34 percent) roles.

• Nearly one-half of the top posting companies in July 2014 were healthcare-related, making healthcare the top posting industry. There were also a significant number of job openings at financial services and academic institutions.