Oregon Job Market Contracts in July with Over 4,000 Jobs Lost

Oregon's job market experienced a setback in July, with employers cutting more than 4,000 jobs despite a steady unemployment rate.

The state's seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment declined by 4,100 jobs in July, following a revised gain of 1,300 jobs in June, according to the Oregon Employment Department.

The largest job losses were seen in professional and business services, which fell by 1,800 jobs, followed by leisure and hospitality, down 900, and government, down 700. In contrast, retail trade posted a gain of 500 jobs.

Over the past 12 months, professional and business services have continued to decline, shedding 2,500 jobs, or 1.0%, with most of that loss coming from management of companies and enterprises, which cut 2,200 jobs, or 4.6%.