The unemployment rate in the State of Illinois has been steadily declining, and the Quad Cities has followed that trend as a whole.
But compared to 2014, there are fewer jobs available in the Quad Cities. From last year, the number of nonfarm jobs went down about 3,600, according to a report from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). Of other metro-areas in the State of Illinois, the Quad Cities had the largest decrease of available jobs.
In July alone, employers in the area advertised for 7,100 positions and about 86 percent of them were for full-time positions.
"Employers actually need more workers than the help wanted advertising indicates because some industries, such as construction, typically do not advertise job openings," read the IDES report.
In the Quad Cities, the following job fields increased: leisure and hospitality (+1,600); retail trade (+500); transportation, warehousing and utilities (+300); and financial activities (+100). All reported payroll gains.
In the Quad Cities, the following job fields decreased: Professional business services (-2700); educational health services (-1,500); manufacturing (+800); and government (-500).