Monster’s U.S. employment index edged down four points in November following a three-point gain in October, Monster Worldwide Inc. announced today. The loss, which follows seasonal patterns, leaves the index at 147. On an annual basis, however, the index is up 13 points from a reading of 134 in November 2010.

“The index continues to remain positive and in-line with typical mid-autumn recruitment trends recorded in recent years,” said Jesse Harriott, senior vice president and chief knowledge officer at Monster Worldwide. “While recruitment activity continues across a broad range of sectors, the current outlook on hiring as we approach 2012 remains cautious with continued business and economic uncertainty.”

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