Job openings trended down to 6.5 million in December, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Job Openings and Labor Turnover Summary (JOLTS) report.  

The JOLTS report provides insights into the number of job openings, hires, quits, and layoffs, offering a detailed snapshot of labor demand in the U.S. The report falls a month behind the jobs report. 

U.S. Employers Report 6.5 Million Job Openings in December 

The overall number of job openings fell from 6.9 million in November to 6.5 million in December, according to the BLS. 

Despite the dip in overall job openings, growth was reported in some industries including: 

• Manufacturing (+34,000) 
• Accommodation and food services (+85,000) 
• Real estate and rental leasing (+23,000) 
• Construction (+8,000) 

Industries reporting a decline in job openings in December included: 

• Finance and insurance (-120,000) 
• Health care and social assistance (-92,000) 
• Retail trade (-195,000) 
• Federal government (-6,000) 

Hiring Increases in December

The number of hires fell from 5.4 million to 5.1 million in The number of hires increased from 5.1 million to 5.3 million in December, according to the latest JOLTS report. Hiring activity is relatively flat year-over-year. 

The industries that increased hiring in December included: 

• Real estate and rental and leasing (+38,000) 
• Accommodation and food services (+57,000) 
• Finance and insurance (+2,000) 
• Information (+27,000) 

Industries that reported fewer hires in the month of December included:  

• Federal government (-11,000) 
• Professional and business services (-52,000) 
• Private educational services (-6,0000) 

Total separations, which include quits, layoffs, discharges, and other separations, increased marginally by 107,000 in December. 

Quits, often regarded as a measure to watch in order to better understand employee confidence, increased by just 11,000 in December.  

Meanwhile, layoffs increased marginally from 1.70 million to 1.76 million. 

 
Looking Ahead: Navigating Soft Market Moments with Strength and Opportunity 

While December’s dip in job openings can signal a cooling labor market, it also marks a moment of transition—one that smart employers and job seekers can use to their advantage. Slower months often create space for strategic planning, thoughtful hiring, and career recalibration. And that’s exactly where Roth Staffing can help. 

For Employers 

A more measured market gives organizations room to refine their teams with precision. Instead of competing in a hiring frenzy, you can focus on securing the right talent at the right time. Our flexible staffing solutions help you stay agile, cost-effective, and positioned for growth—no matter where the market cycles land next. Request staff today! 

For Job Seekers 

Even as openings shift, opportunities don’t disappear—they evolve. With the job market adjusting, candidates have a chance to re-evaluate goals, sharpen skills, and explore roles that align more closely with their long-term aspirations. Our recruiters provide the guidance and insights to help you navigate these changes with confidence. 

Why Roth Staffing? 

In a climate where conditions fluctuate from month to month, adaptability becomes your most valuable asset. At Roth Staffing, we combine real-time labor insights with personalized support—empowering both businesses and candidates to move forward strategically, even when the numbers tell a cautious story. 

Connect with us today and discover how we can help you achieve your goals. 

Source: BLS