The number of US job openings in November rose 2.9 percent from October to 5.0 million, according to seasonally adjusted numbers released today by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job openings level increased over the year for many industries, including professional and business services, healthcare and social assistance, and accommodation and food services. The job openings rate — a measure of job openings compared with total employment — rose to 3.4 percent in November from 3.3 percent in October.

However, the number of hires fell 2.2 percent in November to about 5.0 million. The number of separations also fell 4.9 percent to approximately 4.6 million.

Click on chart to enlarge.