Texas jobs grow, but many still struggle to find work

TYLER (KETK) — The Texas job market is currently thriving, as the state added 40,000 non-farm jobs in January, signaling economic expansion across many industries.

Recent data from the Texas Workforce Commission shows that Tyler’s employment is 115%, while Longview’s 123%.’

Despite continued job growth across the state, many Texans are struggling to land interviews and find work. Stephen Lynch, with Workforce Solutions, said one of the biggest barriers is knowing where to look.

“Employers scan resumes and they are based upon keywords and they match up to the job description that they have posted,” Lynch said.

Lynch explained that while this may seem like a disadvantage, Lynch notes it can actually help you find your perfect match faster.

Through its GoodBiz job coaching program, Goodwill helps around 700 East Texans each year find employment. Lewis says industries like manufacturing and service jobs are seeing high wages, like those at Amazon and YellaWood.

While the job market in Texas continues to excel, adults attempting to reenter the workforce are still facing challenges in finding work.

“It’s not just one part-time job. In many cases, they need multiple part-time jobs… their Social Security, a pension—it’s just not enough to keep up with the cost of living,” Lewis said.

For East Texans searching for their next role, the jobs are there; however, finding them in a tech-driven world is the challenge.