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The latest employment summary from the U.S. Department of Labor finds employment levels in U.S. manufacturing rose by 10,000 jobs in February. This follows a slight gain of 3,000 jobs in January for a total gain of 13,000 jobs so far in 2025.
Meanwhile, the overall jobs report found the U.S. economy added 151,000 jobs in February, roughly in line with the 143,000 jobs added in January. The unemployment rate was little changed at 4.1%. Employment gains were led by health care, financial activities, transportation and warehousing, and social assistance. Not surprisingly, with recent DOGE activity, employment in the federal government declined.
Additionally, the latest Job Openings and Labor Turnover survey finds that unfilled positions in U.S. manufacturing continue to decline, though are still at historically elevated rates. The Labor Department recorded 412,000 unfilled positions for the sector in December, compared to November’s 436,000 open positions. (JOLTS data runs a few months behind).
Meanwhile, a more in-depth look at the data from the Labor Department finds some notable gains—and losses within specific subsectors. Let’s take a look:
In February, gains were led by durable goods, which added 11,000 jobs. Meanwhile, nondurable goods lost 1,000 jobs for and net gain of 10,000 positions. Let’s take a look at specific industry subsectors.
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February manufacturing job gains were led by the motor vehicles and parts industry, which added 8,900 jobs, followed by transportation equipment, which gained 5,800. Other subindustries adding jobs included machinery (+3,500); nonmetallic mineral products (+2,000); paper manufacturing (+1,900); wood products (+1,200); and primary metals (+1,100).
Marginal gains were also seen in fabricated metals, seen in machinery manufacturing; food manufacturing; and beverage, tobacco, and leather.
Employment losses in February were sharpest in computer & electronic product manufacturing which shed 2,700 jobs and semiconductors, which lost 2,500 jobs. Apparel manufacturing employment fell by 1,200 jobs and petroleum and coal products lost 700 jobs.
Losses were also seen in printing and related support activities (-600 jobs); textiles (-500 jobs); chemical manufacturing (-400 jobs); and furniture manufacturing (-300 jobs)
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Editor's note: This article is updated on the first Friday of every month, based on the latest data released by the Department of Labor.
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