The number of US job openings in October rose 3.2 percent from September to 4.8 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 both professional and business services and accommodation and food services. The job openings rate — a measure of job openings compared with total employment — rose to 3.3 percent in October from 3.2 percent in September.

However, the number of hires edged down 0.4 percent in October to about 5.0 million. The number of separations also edged up 0.3 percent to approximately 4.8 million.

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