The job growth rate in the Tri-Cities slowed in April, but the overall labor market continued to improve. The number of advertised jobs declined and the unemployment rate (3.3%) fell for the third straight month.

Employers added 700 jobs in April, down from 1,300 in March. These figures are seasonally adjusted.

The monthly rate of new job creation dropped from 300 to 175. Most new jobs emerged in the professional and business services, as well as leisure and hospitality sectors. Healthcare employers continued to struggle with hiring.

Health, education, and professional services remain the primary drivers of stable job growth. Manufacturing has plateaued despite ongoing demand for skilled labor. Meanwhile, demand is rising in IT, logistics, and other skilled trades, suggesting broader regional industrial diversification.

Where Are the Jobs?

According to Jobs4TN and other state employment data:

• There are currently 771 healthcare job openings, including 182 for registered nurses. Salaries for those RNs range from $56,244 to $84,929.
• A total of 5,253 jobs are currently advertised across Northeast Tennessee, down from 5,468 in March.
• The median salary for advertised jobs is $37,440.
• The most in-demand job categories include healthcare practitioners and healthcare technicians.

Average Wage Overview

• The regional average wage stands at $26.95 per hour, compared to the state average of $30.93.
• Wage growth has been moderate, with the most significant increases in healthcare and construction industries.

Rising Demand by Occupation

Despite persistent demand for healthcare workers, the fastest-growing job categories and their respective average annual wages are:

• Counter and fast-food workers – $26,698
• Retail salespersons – $29,568
• Servers – $26,086
• Customer service representatives – $35,080
• Cashiers – $26,115

Employment Claims

The latest report shows:

• 130 new unemployment claims in Northeast Tennessee
• 316 continued claims

Labor Force Participation

Washington County leads the region with a labor force participation rate (LFPR) of 60.1%, up from 59.3%.

• The regional LFPR stands at 53.6%, largely because of an aging population and increasing retirements.
• Comparatively, the U.S. rate is 62.6%, and Tennessee’s is 60.3%.

County LFPR Breakdown:

• Unicoi  – 54.9%
• Sullivan – 54.4%
• Carter  – 51.8%
• Greene  – 48.9%
• Hawkins – 47.9%

Categories: LABOR MARKET