Workforce

Unemployment rates in the US Route 33 corridor are commonly 30% - 40% higher than Ohio’s average. It is not that residents do not want to work; on the contrary, it is a lack of jobs that causes unemployment.

Our region’s strong, traditional work ethic is demonstrated as nearly 2,000 residents of Hocking County travel outside the area for employment opportunities daily. Many of these workers spend more than two hours commuting to and from work.

Not only are available workers plentiful in the US Route 33 corridor, they are also affordable. According to state statistics, the average weekly earnings for the residents of our region are 15% below Ohio’s average. For manufacturing workers, the disparity is even wider.

As the region’s economy has changed, more businesses have come to rely on technology and communications. Our workforce has changed accordingly. Local employers can access customized training throughout the region either in classrooms or at their work sites directly.

Additionally, higher educational institutions are constantly interacting with employers to create course offerings that meet the changing needs of business.

Labor Force Facts
Employed workers: 13,000
Unemployment rate: 7.3%
Median age: 37

Wage Rates (per hour)
Unskilled and service: $6-$8
Manufacturing, entry level (semi-skilled): $9.10
Journeyman, manufacturing: $14.50
Journeyman, skilled: $20 (average)

Union tradesmen comprise 10% of work force.

Job Service Center

City of Logan