Construction Jobs Slip in February, but Employment Remains Up Year Over Year

Washington, DC, March 6, 2026-The construction industry lost 11,000 jobs in February, according to an analysis by Associated Builders and Contractors of new employment data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Economists noted that winter weather likely contributed to softer construction hiring during the month.

Despite the decline, construction employment remains up by 42,000 jobs year over year, a 0.5% increase.

Across the broader economy, total nonfarm payroll employment declined by 92,000 in February, while the unemployment rate held steady at 4.4%.

Average hourly earnings rose by 15 cents, or 0.4%, to $37.32, marking a 3.8% increase over the past year. The average workweek remained unchanged at 34.3 hours.

Job losses during the month were largely concentrated in health care, information and federal government employment. Health care employment fell by 28,000, largely reflecting strike activity affecting physician offices, though hospitals added 12,000 jobs.

Overall, the number of unemployed people held steady at 7.6 million, and labor force participation remained unchanged at 62.0%.