U.S. Job Openings Surge to 7.62 Million in April, Highest Since 2024

U.S. job openings surged to 7.62 million in April, far exceeding the 6.87 million forecast and reaching the highest level since 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on June 2. The sharp increase in available positions defied expectations of a cooling labor market. The hiring rate fell to 3.2% during the month, signaling that employers are posting vacancies without immediately filling them. Layoffs edged lower, though the overall pace of separations remained historically subdued. The data, drawn from the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, point to persistent demand for workers even as other indicators show economic growth moderating. The April surge complicates the Federal Reserve’s assessment of labor market tightness as it monitors inflation pressures. The gap between openings and hires underscores ongoing imbalances that could keep wage growth elevated, a concern for central bankers.