Business Economy · Historical report

U.S. Job Openings Were Unchanged in May, BLS Reports

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that job openings and hires were unchanged in May, while total separations changed little.

By Ethan Mercer · · Published

Key takeaways

  • Job openings were unchanged in May, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  • Hires were unchanged, and total separations changed little during the month.
  • The release reports job openings as positions open on the last business day of the month, while hires and separations cover payroll changes during the full month.
  • BLS revised its April estimates for job openings, hires, total separations, quits, and layoffs and discharges.

May labor turnover measures showed limited change

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey release reported no change in job openings or hires from the prior month. Total separations changed little.

The survey presents estimates for job openings, hires and separations across the total nonfarm sector, industries and establishment-size classes. The May estimates are preliminary.

Openings are measured differently from hires and separations

Job openings are positions open on the last business day of the month. For a position to qualify, work must be available, the job must be able to begin within 30 days, and the employer must be actively recruiting outside the establishment.

Hires and separations measure changes to payrolls during the entire month. Separations include quits, layoffs and discharges, and other separations.

BLS reported selected industry changes

The agency reported an increase in job openings in wholesale trade. It also reported an increase in hires in federal government.

Across industries, total separations changed little. BLS reported a decrease in layoffs and discharges in arts, entertainment, and recreation.

April estimates were revised

BLS revised the April estimates for job openings, hires and total separations. It also revised the April estimates for quits and for layoffs and discharges.

The agency said monthly revisions reflect additional reports from businesses and government agencies, as well as recalculated seasonal factors.

Survey coverage and next release

JOLTS covers private nonfarm establishments and civilian federal, state and local government entities in the 50 states and the District of Columbia.

BLS scheduled publication of the June JOLTS release for August 4, 2026.