TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey lost more than 10,000 jobs in February, while the state’s unemployment rate edged lower, according to new federal labor data.
Preliminary estimates from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show nonfarm employment declined by 10,300 jobs during the month, bringing total employment to 4,373,700. Despite the drop in jobs, the state’s unemployment rate decreased by 0.1 percentage point to 5.1%.
Revised figures for January show the state added 3,500 jobs from December, lower than earlier estimates of 6,000. The unemployment rate for January remained at 5.2%.
Three of nine private industry sectors posted gains in February, led by leisure and hospitality, which added 1,800 jobs. Private education and health services added 1,200 jobs, while other services increased by 1,000.
Several sectors recorded losses, including construction, which declined by 5,900 jobs, along with professional and business services, trade, transportation and utilities, financial activities, information and manufacturing. The public sector also saw a loss of 400 jobs.
Over the past year, overall job growth has remained limited. Total private employment increased by 900 jobs, driven primarily by gains in education and health services, which added 28,400 positions, and smaller increases in leisure and hospitality.
However, most other sectors experienced declines over the same period, including trade, transportation and utilities, professional and business services and manufacturing. The public sector has lost 4,500 jobs over the past 12 months.
Updated employment data for March is scheduled to be released April 30.
