Rising Number of Workers in Part-Time Jobs Signals Economic Concerns
In a notable shift across the U.S. labor market, recent employment data suggests that an increasing number of workers are grappling with inadequate job arrangements. With a slowing economy, many individuals are finding themselves in part-time positions or juggling multiple jobs to sustain their financial well-being. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a significant surge in the number of part-time workers seeking full-time employment, reaching an eight-year high in November.
Concurrently, statistics indicate that 5.7% of the workforce is currently managing more than one job, marking the highest percentage in over 25 years. This increase has led to approximately 9.3 million Americans holding multiple jobs, a 10% rise compared to the previous year. These trends reflect not only individual economic challenges but also broader disruptions within the labor market resulting from recent governmental interruptions, including a notable shutdown that affected hundreds of thousands of federal workers. Many of those impacted have sought additional income sources, including part-time or freelance roles, to compensate for lost wages.
More critically, the escalating concern over affordability is driving workers to explore extra employment opportunities. The rise in dual full-time positions among Americans, particularly among women, underscores this reality, with an 18% increase in the past year alone. Experts suggest that this need for extra work often signals financial strain. Although some may welcome the opportunity to earn more, the necessity of accumulating multiple jobs raises serious questions about long-term economic stability and worker well-being.
Despite federal workers receiving back pay post-shutdown, contractors and freelancers, who form a significant segment of the workforce, did not enjoy the same benefit. This disparity has led many, such as government contractor Joshua Beers from Columbia, Maryland, to seek side jobs during financial difficulties. Beers, who took on food delivery work to manage his expenses, exemplifies the struggles faced by individuals attempting to balance their primary careers with supplemental jobs.
Moreover, the overall labor market dynamics have cooled in recent months, with employers adding 584,000 jobs throughout 2025 — a stark decline from the previous year’s pace. As of late, the unemployment rate decreased slightly to 4.4%. The current state of the job market presents significant challenges for seekers. While layoffs remain relatively low, the preference of companies to trim expansion rather than workforce indicates a tightening environment for newcomers.
Additionally, an uptick in part-time workers unable to secure full-time positions has been observed since 2023, with an unprecedented 62% rise noted in November. This alarming trend suggests increased underemployment, a classic gauge of economic distress. Many people, like Rachel Fredrickson from Wisconsin, reflect this struggle. Fredrickson, who recently transitioned from long-term unemployment in manufacturing to part-time retail work, faces ongoing uncertainty regarding job security and financial stability.
Ultimately, the current labor market conditions signify growing underemployment and economic uncertainty, compelling individuals to seek multiple employment opportunities while navigating challenges posed by a fluctuating economy. The implications of these trends are vast, touching on worker well-being, economic health, and the overall resilience of the labor market.
Media News Source
