Monster’s U.S. employment index ticked up three points in October, following a one-point gain in September, Monster Worldwide Inc. announced today. The index stands at 151. On an annual basis, the index rose 15 points from a reading of 136 in October 2010.

“The index recorded positive momentum coming into the pre-holiday season. Employers are proceeding with hiring as planned, indicated by solid seasonal demand for temporary workers in short-term positions within the retail and manufacturing sectors,” said Jesse Harriott, senior vice president and chief knowledge officer at Monster Worldwide. “Overall, this demonstrates an encouraging sign for the U.S. labor market during the holiday season; however substantial job-creation has yet to occur for the economy to see pre-recessionary levels of recruitment.”

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