U.S. job openings jump to 7.6 million in April, beating forecasts despite Iran war

U.S. job openings climbed unexpectedly in April, signaling a resilient labor market even as the economy faced headwinds from the Iran conflict. Vacancies rose to 7.6 million from a revised 6.9 million in March, the Labor Department reported June 2, 2026, outpacing the 6.8 million economists had projected. It was the highest level since May 2024. Layoffs declined, but fewer workers quit jobs, suggesting some caution. The data shows employers remain willing to hire, providing a buffer against economic disruptions from elevated energy prices following the U.S.-led attacks on Iran that began February 28. Job growth has averaged 76,000 a month this year through April, a sharp recovery from a sluggish 2025 when monthly gains dipped below 10,000. The pickup was partly fueled by one-time tax refunds from the 2025 tax cut law, though that stimulus is now fading. A separate report Friday is expected to show employers added 100,000 jobs in May.