by Michelle Choi of Lease Advisors
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that October marked the lowest unemployment rate for the telecommunications industry workforce in 2015. According to the figures released on a monthly basis, the national unemployment figures for October were 5.0%, down from 5.1% in September and August. But for individuals working in telephony, VoIP, cable and satellite television distribution, Internet access, and telecom reselling, the unemployment figures were dramatically less — October 1.4%, down from 3.8% in September and 4.1% in August. Unemployment has typically ranged between 2-11% for the past decade, peaking in 2010.
Low unemployment rates have been in contrast to recent decisions made by the largest U.S. carriers. Typically, carriers have announced layoffs in the third and fourth quarters. On December 16, Sprint begin reducing its workforce reportedly by the “thousands” with the intention to save an estimated $150 million. In addition, Verizon has announced plans to consolidate 20 regional operating centers to six. AT&T said it was cutting 200 jobs in Houston at a credit and collections center. Despite these announcements, the unemployment rate has not reflected carrier plans as of yet.
Radio and cellular tower equipment installation and repair specialists in particular saw 13,310 individuals employed with a relative standard error (RSE) of 4.2%. This includes repair, installation, and maintenance of mobile or stationary radio transmitting, broadcasting, and receiving equipment, two-way radio communications, mobile broadband, and radio equipment in service and emergency vehicles. Employment rates are highest in California, Washington, Colorado, Texas, Florida, New York, and a majority of the Midwest.
For more detailed statistics regarding monthly employment trends in the cell tower industry and the telecommunications industry, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational employment statistics here.
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