More Opportunities for Northland Job Seekers

Job Opportunities Increase in the Northland

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Now might be a good time to whip out those resumes and cover letters!

Employment officials say the tides are changing and things are working in job seekers favor.

A study done by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development found there were 8,000 job openings last winter, which is more than double the amount of openings from winter of 2013.

Currently the Arrowhead region has a 5.9% unemployment rate with Duluth coming in at 4.5% which is a full percentage point less than last year.

Jobs in food services and accommodations, healthcare occupations and construction have the most openings and are expected to continue to grow.

If you are looking for a job employment officials recommend taking advantage of resources like the Duluth Workforce Center and different workshops.

“Not only will you be able to determine whether your resume is good, whether it’s something that’s gonna be attractive to the employees with the different classes that are offered, but you can also get that one on one counseling,” Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Regional Analyst Erik White says. “As well as find out more about the resources that are available.”

Job analysts also believe Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton’s more than $800 million jobs bill aimed at paying for a range of local projects has the potential to create even more employment if it goes through.

While this is a good time for job seekers, analysts tell FOX 21 it might be a difficult time for employers.

Some businesses paying lower wages with less desirable work are struggling to recruit and retain their employees because they’re workers are moving on to higher paying jobs and advancement now that those opportunities are becoming available.

Superior, Wisconsin is also seeing an uptick in job growth.