(WO) — U.S. energy services employment continued its upward trend in May, increasing by 3,619 jobs to 633,115 positions as activity levels improved across portions of the sector, according to the latest report from the Energy Workforce & Technology Council.
EWTC President Molly Determan
The gain marks the third consecutive month of employment growth and extends a recovery that began earlier this year. Since reaching a recent low of 625,057 jobs in January, the energy services sector has added more than 8,000 positions.
The report, based on preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Energy Workforce analysis, reflects what industry leaders describe as measured hiring in response to gradually improving market conditions.
“We continue to see a slow-and-steady increase in activity across portions of the energy services sector,” said Energy Workforce President Molly Determan. “Companies are receiving more requests for work and responding with measured workforce growth, but they remain disciplined in their hiring decisions and long-term planning.”
Determan noted that service companies continue to balance increasing demand with uncertainty surrounding commodity prices, global markets and geopolitical developments.
“While activity is improving, this is not a rapid expansion cycle,” she said. “Service companies are focused on sustainable growth, maintaining a skilled workforce, and positioning themselves to meet future demand as market conditions continue to evolve.”
The employment gains came as the broader U.S. labor market also exceeded expectations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employers added 172,000 jobs nationwide in May despite ongoing concerns about inflation and economic growth.
The latest figures suggest energy service companies remain cautiously optimistic, adding workers where activity supports growth while avoiding the aggressive hiring cycles seen during previous industry upturns.
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