U.S. Job Growth Slows: 160K Jobs Added in Feb Amid Layoffs, Spending Dip

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U.S. employers likely added 160,000 jobs in February, up from 143,000 in January but slower than late 2024, amid federal layoffs and weaker consumer spending. The unemployment rate is expected to hold at 4%, with the labor market facing uncertainty due to rapid policy shifts, including Elon Musk’s push to shrink the federal government.

-.07%

As per the Indeed report, despite low unemployment (4%) and a low quit rate, most job seekers are already employed. Job searches dropped 32% in late December but rebounded 22% in January. High-remote job postings are down 0.07% year over year, though remote job availability is nearing pre-pandemic levels. Employers may have a larger talent pool but must adapt to an aging workforce and potential immigration declines.

68%

A new report warns of "shadow AI" as 68% of employees use personal GenAI tools like ChatGPT at work, even when company-provided options exist. While AI boosts speed (60%), ease (57%), and performance (49%), it also raises security risks—57% admitted to sharing sensitive data. With 44% of companies lacking AI policies, experts stress that providing AI tools isn’t enough to prevent misuse.

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Apple plans to hire 20,000 people over four years as part of its $500-billion U.S. investment, focusing on R&D, AI, and software development. The company is also launching the Apple Manufacturing Academy in Detroit to help businesses adopt AI and smart manufacturing. The initiative includes free upskilling courses amid growing concerns about workforce readiness. Apple’s expansion follows recent layoffs and aims to boost American innovation.

30%

The Trump administration launched an air traffic control "hiring supercharge" at the FAA academy to address long-standing staffing shortages. The new streamlined process cuts hiring steps from eight to five and boosts air traffic controller pay by up to 30%. Despite recent FAA layoffs, the move aims to attract top talent and strengthen aviation safety. Hiring runs until March 17, with faster training and nationwide placements for recruits.