N.J. employment was down in August, government reports

New Jersey employment shrank by 900 jobs in August, according to preliminary data from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.That pushed the state unemployment rate slightly higher, to 6.6 percent, the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development reported.

Employment in New Jersey now stands at 3.95 million, as measured by the BLS through its monthly employer survey.

Despite an 800-job dip in August, private sector employment has grown by 26,600 jobs through the year’s first eight months.

Public sector employment fell by 100 jobs in August.

Among industries, the biggest gainer in August was professional and business services, which added 3,200 jobs. On the other hand, trade, transportation and utilities lost 3,000 jobs and construction lost 1,600.

In addition, July estimates were revised slightly lower, by 200 jobs, resulting in a revised total gain of 5,500 jobs for the month.

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