WA private sector sheds 9,000 jobs as government grows - Seattle Red

Washington private employers shed 9,000 jobs in August while government employment increased by an estimated 8,100, according to state data. (Photo courtesy of the Employment Security Department) Washington’s private sector shed 9,000 jobs in August while government payrolls grew by an estimated 8,100, nearly wiping away the losses on paper as the state continues to show signs of a cooling labor market. The latest figures from the Washington Employment Security Department show the state finished August with 900 fewer jobs overall, reversing three consecutive months of job growth. Washington’s unemployment rate dipped slightly to 4.9%, but remained above the national rate of 4.1%.