The SFN Group Inc.'s employee confidence index rose 0.8  of a point in February to a reading of 53.6, its highest level since October 2007.

The index's survey found that 29 percent of workers believe the economy is getting stronger, no change from last month's survey. Fifty-one percent believe there are fewer jobs available, a drop of six points from January.

The majority of workers believe their jobs are secure, with 70 percent saying it is unlikely they will lose their job, a slight dip from 71 percent in January. Fewer people also report plans to look for a new job. Thirty-three percent of workers are likely to look for a new job in the next 12 months, a drop of seven percentage points from the previous month.

"While worker optimism towards the overall economy continues to reach new heights, there is still a fair amount of uncertainty when it comes to their perception of the permanent job market," said SFN Group President and CEO Roy Krause. "Although some economists indicate a promising return to permanent higher volume hiring, many more believe businesses are operating under a new 'normal' characterized by smaller, but more efficient staffs augmented by more temporary and project work."

The index's survey questioned 1,229 employed U.S. adults between Feb. 15 and Feb. 17.