The total wage and salary employment in the Inland Empire metro area increased by 5,600 in November. This followed a strong increase in October of 8,200 jobs. November's employment figure was 4.6% below the 11/'08 level, the lowest year-over-year decline in a year. The construction sector lost another 1,200 jobs in November. Compared to its peak in 6/'06, this sector has lost 49% of its job base. The manufacturing sector lost another 400 jobs in November. Manufacturing employment is down 26% from its peak also in 6/'06. The logistics sector posted its fourth month-to-month job gain by adding 200 jobs in November. Much of the increase is likely seasonal to meet the needs of retailers during the holiday shopping season. This sector tends to see job losses in January. Retail employment rose in November as expected, but at a rate significantly below the levels during "normal" economic times.
January 29, 2010
