Unemployment Figures in December Well Down from Year Earlier

Jobless rates in area counties for December were much lower than one year earlier.

Effingham County's unemployment rate was 5.5%, down from 7.4% in December 2013.

Other area counties and their numbers:

Coles--5.6%, down from 8.5%

Cumberland--6.7%, down from 9.8%

Shelby--6.2%, down from 9.6%

Clay--8.1%, down from 10.9%

Fayette--7.4%, down from 11.1%

Jasper--6.2%, down from 8.9%

The Illinois Department of Employment Security reports that employment levels for temporary and part-time workers at retailers and restaurants remained strong. Construction activity on roads, schools and commercial projects remained at a significant level.

Payroll gains occurred in wholesale trade, transportation and health services. Several area manufacturers added production workers in 2014. Many employment opportunities at the end of 2014 were advertised in healthcare, transportation and sales. Job openings were also reported in office and administrative support, management and production occupations. Employment opportunities included jobs in engineering, computer services and food preparation. Also, there were a number of job openings for social service positions and installation, maintenance and repair occupations.