Construction Firms Add 19,000 Jobs in July as Unemployment and Average Pay Increase
Construction employment reaches 7,791,000 in July as data shows firms can’t find enough workers to replace retiring workers and association officials call for new investments in construction education
The construction industry added 19,000 jobs in July even as the sector’s unemployment rate increased, according to an analysis of new government data the Associated General Contractors of America released Aug. 4. Association officials noted that tight labor conditions are bringing more previously employed construction workers back into the job market as firms continue to boost pay levels.
“The construction industry continues to add workers at a steady clip as demand for many types of construction remains strong,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “Firms are boosting pay to cope with tight labor market conditions, which is bringing more former workers back into the job market.”