U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (09/09/15)

The number of job openings rose to a series high of 5.8 million on the last business day of July, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The prior series high was 5.4 million in May. The series began in December 2000. The number of hires and separations edged down to 5.0 million and 4.7 million, respectively. Within separations, the quits rate was 1.9% for the fourth consecutive month, and the layoffs and discharges rate declined to 1.1%.

Several sectors saw an increase in job openings in July, including professional and business services (122,000), accommodation and food services (82,000), retail trade (77,000), and nondurable goods manufacturing (27,000).