September Virginia Jobs Day Report Shows Job Growth

RICHMOND, VA — The Spanberger Administration today released its September Virginia Jobs Day report, providing Virginians with an updated assessment of the Commonwealth’s economy and highlighting employment trends, workforce needs, and career opportunities across Virginia.

According to the latest data from Virginia Works, Virginia added 5,600 jobs in August, including 7,700 private-sector jobs. The Commonwealth’s unemployment rate declined to 3.6 percent, remaining below the national rate of 4.1 percent. Employment gains were led by Professional and Business Services, which added 4,100 jobs, followed by Construction with 2,400 additional jobs and Manufacturing with 800 additional jobs.

While Virginia experienced job growth during the month, the Commonwealth’s labor force participation rate declined to 62.8 percent, and total employment remained 37,700 jobs below its August 2025 level. These figures demonstrate why examining multiple economic indicators is important. The unemployment rate measures the share of the labor force actively seeking work, while labor force participation measures the share of the civilian population age 16 and older who are working or actively looking for employment. Together, these indicators provide a more complete picture of Virginia’s workforce and the challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth’s economy.

“Virginia’s latest employment data demonstrates continued job growth in several important industries, while also underscoring the need to connect more Virginians with opportunities to enter and remain in the workforce,” said Virginia Secretary of Labor Jessica Looman. “Through Virginia Jobs Day, we are providing a comprehensive look at the state of our economy and translating that information into meaningful opportunities for workers and employers. Governor Spanberger’s Administration is committed to making Virginia the best state for business and the best place to go to work by helping employers access the talent they need to grow and ensuring Virginians have the skills, training, and resources necessary to pursue good-paying careers.”

Connecting Virginians with Opportunities in the Skilled Trades

This month’s Virginia Jobs Day report highlights employment opportunities in the skilled trades, including construction, electrical work, plumbing, and other occupations essential to supporting Virginia’s economy.

Virginia’s construction industry added 2,400 jobs in August, while the value of multifamily residential building permits issued in the Commonwealth increased by 56 percent during the first seven months of 2026 compared with the same period last year. These indicators highlight recent construction activity and the importance of preparing workers with the skills needed to support the industry.

The report also highlights electricians, who earn an average annual wage of $67,850 in Virginia. Registered Apprenticeships provide pathways into many skilled trades by allowing participants to earn a paycheck while receiving hands-on training and developing skills that can lead to long-term career opportunities.

“Understanding where employers are hiring and what skills they need is essential to helping Virginians navigate a changing economy,” said Virginia Works Commissioner Nicole Overley. “This month’s focus on the skilled trades demonstrates how labor market information can help individuals explore career pathways they may not have previously considered. Through Virginia Works, we are connecting job seekers with employers, Registered Apprenticeships, and other workforce development resources that can help Virginians gain the skills and experience needed to pursue rewarding careers.”

Virginia Jobs Day provides a monthly report on Virginia’s economy by examining employment trends, industry performance, regional labor market conditions, wages, and employer demand. By bringing this information together, the initiative helps Virginians better understand economic conditions and identify opportunities to enter the workforce, advance their careers, and develop skills for in-demand occupations.

To explore the September Virginia Jobs Day report, view the latest labor market data, and learn more about employment and training opportunities, visitVirginiaHasJobs.com/Virginia-Jobs-Day.

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Richmond is an independent city in the Richmond region.