Monster’s employment index of online job posting activity in the U.S. rose 10 points in February to a reading of 143 following a seven-point drop in January, Monster Worldwide Inc. announced today. On an annual basis, the index is up 14 points from a reading of 129 in February 2011.

The rise in February was in line with seasonal patterns. Nineteen of the 20 industries monitored showed growth. The only industry posting a decline was public administration.

The index is based on a review of online job ads taken from a selection of websites, including Monster.com.