Job loss underscores Wyoming employment projections

A drop in Wyoming’s first-quarter unemployment rate was accompanied by a corresponding decrease in the state’s overall workforce.

According to the Department of Workforce Services, from first quarter 2016 to first quarter 2017, average monthly employment fell by 7,099 jobs. The largest job losses occurred in construction (-2,004 jobs), mining (-1,753 jobs), and retail trade (-1,139 jobs). On the positive side, total payroll increased slightly to $14.1 million (.5 percent).

Teton County added 626 jobs (3.3%) and its total payroll increased by $20.1 million (9.7%). Large job gains were seen in arts, entertainment & recreation (approximately 200 jobs) and accommodation & food services (approximately 200 jobs). More modest gains occurred in local government, transportation & warehousing, real estate & rental & leasing, professional & technical services, and health care & social assistance.

Lincoln County’s employment increased by 92 jobs (1.6%) and its total payroll rose by $8.0 million (13.0%). Small jobs gains were seen in accommodation & food services, professional & technical services, real estate & rental & leasing, retail trade, and other services.

Based on preliminary data, the state projects total employment fell by another 3,600 jobs in the second quarter of the year.