Job openings across the U.S. remained fell slightly to 7.2 million in March 2025, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Job Openings and Labor Turnover Summary (JOLTS) report. The JOLTS report, which provides insights into the number of job openings, hires, quits, and layoffs, offers a detailed snapshot of labor demand in the U.S.  

The latest reading is a drop from 7.48 million openings (revised from 7.56 million) reported in February and fell short of market projections for 7.5 million, according to FXStreet. 

7.2 Million Job Openings in the United States  

Job openings have decreased by 901,000 over the past year, reflecting a softening trend in labor demand.  

In March, job openings decreased across several key industries, including:  

• Construction (-38,000)  
• Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities (-59,000)
• Real Estate and Rental and Leasing (-39,000)  
• Professional and Business Services (-21,000)  

Still, some sectors reported an increase in openings, showcasing pockets of growth despite the overall decline:  

• Finance and Insurance (+25,000)  
• Manufacturing (+4,000)  

While the numbers show little change month-over-month, the year-long contraction in openings highlights a broader cooling of the labor market. 

Hiring Remains Stable  

Despite a decrease in job openings, hiring activity in March stayed level. 5.4 million hires were recorded across the U.S., for an unchanged hiring rate of 3.4%. Most industries reported minimal changes in hiring activity, with total hires rising by just 30,000 overall from February.  

The sectors that experienced the most notable changes in hiring were:  

• Finance and Insurance (+24,000)  
• Health Care and Social Assistance (+31,000)  
• Construction (-45,000) 
• Professional and Business Services (-43,000) 

Separations See Little Change  

Total separations, which include quits, layoffs, discharges, and other separations, were little changed in March, holding steady at 5.1 million (3.2% of the workforce).  

Quits, often seen as a barometer of employee confidence and job market strength, remained flat at 3.3 million. Sector-specific changes included:  

• Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities: -49,000 quits  
• Accommodation and Food Services: +60,000 quits  
• Finance and Insurance: +25,000 quits  

Layoffs and discharges edged down slightly to 1.6 million, with a rate of 1.0%. The decline was most pronounced in retail trade (-66,000) and federal government (-11,000). However, state and local government sectors (excluding education) saw an uptick of 17,000 layoffs and discharges. 

These figures suggest relative stability in employee movements. 

Understanding the Broader Context  

Job openings remain lower than the highs of recent years, and hiring activity has been relatively stable. The shortfall in job openings could be indicative of various factors, according to Investing.com, including “slower business growth, cautious hiring practices, or a lack of suitable candidates. It could also potentially signal an increase in job competition among job seekers.” 

Underlying economic factors, such as trade policies, labor supply challenges, and geopolitical uncertainties, may continue to impact hiring and labor demand in the months ahead.  

How We Can Help  

At Roth Staffing, we’re closely monitoring the labor market to provide you with the insights and support you need to make smart decisions in this evolving landscape.  

For Employers  

Navigating today’s hiring environment can be challenging, but partnering with the right staffing experts can make all the difference. We can help you:  

• Build flexible teams with temporary, temporary-to-hire, or direct hire solutions.  
• Secure top talent in competitive industries using our extensive networks.  

• Simplify recruitment processes to attract and retain exceptional professionals.  

If you’re looking for a trusted partner to aid in your hiring efforts, contact us today. 

For Job Seekers  

Whether you’re new to the job market or considering a career switch, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our team can help you:  

• Access exclusive roles with leading employers.  
• Stay ahead with tailored advice on hiring trends.  
• Find positions that align with your skills and career goals.  

Take the next step in your career with our support. Start your search now.  

By adapting proactively to the shifting labor landscape, you can ensure that your workforce remains resilient and ready to thrive, no matter what challenges come next. 

Sources: BLS, Indeed Hiring Lab, FXStreet, Investing.com