Chattooga County Unemployment Rate Edges Up In May

Chattooga County’s unemployment rate edged slightly higher in May, according to newly released figures from the Georgia Department of Labor.

The county posted a jobless rate of 3.8 percent for May, up from 3.7 percent in April. Despite the small monthly increase, the local rate remains relatively low as Georgia continues to report strong employment numbers statewide.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said May traditionally brings a new wave of workers into the job market as graduates begin looking for employment. She said Georgia’s growing workforce remains one of the reasons companies continue to invest across the state.

Statewide, Georgia has now surpassed 5 million jobs, a milestone labor officials say reflects continued opportunity for both new workers and experienced professionals.

For Chattooga County, the latest numbers show a modest increase in unemployment heading into the summer months, while the overall labor market remains steady.

Chattooga County School System Hiring Maintenance Technician

The Chattooga County Board of Education is accepting applications for a Maintenance Technician position to help ensure school facilities throughout the district remain safe and operating efficiently.

The full-time position is benefits eligible and follows a 208-day work schedule each school year. Employees work a four-day schedule with most Mondays off and participate in a rotating on-call schedule to respond to after-hours emergencies. Pay is based on certifications and experience, with wages up to $27.21 per hour.

Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED along with HVAC certification and/or electrical technician experience. Candidates should also have working knowledge of building maintenance trades, be able to work independently or as part of a team, climb ladders or scaffolding, lift heavy objects, possess a valid driver’s license, and successfully complete fingerprinting and a criminal background check.

Applications are available through the Superintendent’s Office or online at www.chattooga.k12.ga.us by selecting Menu, District Services, then Human Resources.

Completed applications should be submitted to Dawn Campbell, Human Resources Director, at the Chattooga County Board of Education, 33 Middle School Road, Summerville, Georgia 30747.

GNTC Offering Night Classes For Diesel Technician Program

Georgia Northwestern Technical College is making it easier for working adults and others with busy schedules to prepare for a career in the diesel industry by offering night classes in its Diesel Equipment Technology program.

According to GNTC, diesel technicians are in high demand as freight transportation continues to grow, creating an ongoing need for skilled professionals to maintain and repair diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of settings, including independent maintenance and repair shops, corporate fleet maintenance, truck leasing and rental operations, and trucking logistics facilities.

Early registration for fall classes is underway, with the registration deadline set for August 4.

For more information about the Diesel Equipment Technology program or to apply, visit gntc.edu or call 866-983-4682.

Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office Hiring Victim Witness Advocate

The Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office is currently hiring for a Victim Witness Advocate position.

The office prosecutes state-level criminal offenses in Dade, Catoosa, Chattooga and Walker counties and says its mission is to seek justice for the citizens of Georgia with courage, integrity and professionalism.

The District Attorney’s Office works in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with a focus on professional development, ethical prosecution and public service. The office’s team includes assistant district attorneys, investigators, victim advocates and support personnel.

Anyone interested in applying should send a resume and cover letter to:

Lookout Mountain Judicial District Attorney
Attn: Elena Floyd
P.O. Box 1025
LaFayette, GA 30728

Applications may also be emailed to efloyd@pacga.org.

Georgia Surpasses 5 Million Jobs As Unemployment Rate Falls To 3.4 Percent

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state has reached a major economic milestone, surpassing 5 million jobs for the first time in state history.

According to the latest labor report, Georgia recorded 5,002,400 jobs in May, an all-time high. The state’s labor force also reached a record 5,470,704, while total employment climbed to a new high of 5,283,862.

Georgia’s unemployment rate fell to 3.4 percent in May, down from a revised 3.5 percent in April and well below the national unemployment rate.

“Five million jobs, an all-time high labor force, and record employment in a single month: This is what a modern, adaptable economy looks like when it works for all Georgians,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes.

The state added 6,900 jobs during May and has now experienced job growth for three consecutive months. Employment increased by more than 56,000 jobs over the past year.

Among the industries posting the largest gains in May were accommodation and food services, administrative and support services, transportation and warehousing, local government and state government.

Over the past year, health care and social assistance led all sectors with nearly 25,000 new jobs added statewide.

The labor department also reported that initial unemployment claims declined in May, another sign of continued strength in Georgia’s workforce and economy.

Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Falls To 2.7 Percent

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.7 percent in April, down six-tenths of a percentage point from the previous month. The rate was 2.8 percent one year ago.

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City Of Summerville Accepting Applications For Gas Maintenance Worker

The City of Summerville is accepting applications for the position of Gas Maintenance Worker.

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Manufacturing Continues To Drive Chattooga County Economy

Manufacturing remains the leading employment sector in Chattooga County, continuing its long-standing role as the backbone of the local economy.

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Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach All-Time Highs in April

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state reached new all-time highs in both labor force participation and total employment during April, while Georgia’s unemployment rate remained well below the national average.

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Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Drops To 3.3 Percent

Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate unchanged at 5.6 percent, Rome Down

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a point over the month to 3.3 percent.

That compares to 3.2 percent one year ago.

The region’s labor force increased by 2,155 over the month and by 4,086 over the year, reaching 459,952, an all-time high. The number of employed residents also rose, increasing by 2,996 over the month and 3,515 over the year to 444,625, also an all-time high.

Initial unemployment claims were up by 718 over the month and by 852 over the year, reaching 2,557.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the numbers are a strong sign during Economic Development Week, noting that more Georgians are securing jobs that support families and strengthen communities.