Report: Jobs on the rise

Missouri had a net gain of 1,000 jobs in 2010, following net losses in both 2009 and 2008, according to Missouri Department of Economic Development data released Feb. 25.

The state's seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate remained flat at 9.6 percent in January. Missouri employers, however, added 7,600 new jobs during the month, according to a DED news release.

The Springfield metropolitan area experienced relatively little growth during January. The St. Louis MSA saw the largest growth - an increase of 5,700 jobs during the month, according to the release.

Statewide employment increased in the following sectors:

• manufacturing, up by 4,700 jobs;
• retail trade, up by 3,800 jobs;
• financial activities, up by 2,100 jobs;
• professional and business services, up by 2,800 jobs; and
• private educational and health services, up by 1,100 jobs.

The gains were partially offset by a loss of 2,900 jobs in the construction sector and a loss of 1,900 jobs in the information sector.