New state workforce data show Louisiana is adding workers at one of the fastest rates in the nation, while employers across Minden and Webster Parish continue seeking employees in industries ranging from manufacturing and health care to public safety, education, retail, and skilled trades.
According to the Louisiana Works, the state tied for the nation’s largest year-over-year increase in labor force participation, with the rate rising from 57.9% to 58.8%. Nearly 33,000 additional Louisianans entered the labor force during the past year, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking work.
Louisiana also ranked first in the nation for year-over-year construction employment growth, adding approximately 9,300 construction jobs, a 6.7% increase over the previous year.
Gov. Jeff Landry said the latest figures demonstrate continued economic growth across the state.
“Louisiana’s momentum is real, and these numbers show it,” Landry said. “We’re creating an environment where businesses are investing, jobs are growing, and more Louisianans are choosing to participate in the workforce. Every person who enters the workforce represents another opportunity to move from dependence to independence, and we’re committed to building an economy that rewards work and creates opportunity for every Louisianan.”
Louisiana Works Secretary Susana Schowen said the state is continuing efforts to connect workers with employers through education, workforce training, and employment opportunities.
“This is exactly the direction we want Louisiana to be moving,” Schowen said. “We’re seeing more employers create opportunities, more Louisianans stepping into the workforce, and stronger alignment between workforce development, education, and economic development. Our focus now is on keeping that momentum going by continuing to connect more people to good jobs and helping employers find the skilled talent they need.”
Labor force participation measures the percentage of working-age adults who are employed or actively looking for work and is widely considered a key indicator of economic health.
That statewide momentum is reflected locally, where dozens of employers currently have positions available, according to the Greater Minden Chamber’s community hiring listings.
Among the largest local employers hiring is the City of Minden, which has openings for firefighters, police officers, police dispatchers, administrative staff, water and wastewater personnel, street department laborers, recreation staff, maintenance helpers, and utility workers.
Fibrebond is recruiting for a wide range of manufacturing and engineering positions, including electricians, project engineers, project managers, production schedulers, warehouse technicians, quality technicians, assembly technicians, maintenance mechanics, painters, metal fabrication technicians, structural prefab technicians, precast technicians, and utility technicians.
Health care continues to represent one of the strongest hiring sectors in the area. Employers currently seeking workers include Minden Medical Center, Meadowview Health & Rehab, Town & Country Health & Rehab, Professional Home Health Services of Minden, Allegiance Home Health of Northwest Louisiana, Evergreen Life Services, David Raines Community Health Center, Pafford Emergency Medical Services, and The Columns at Germantown.
Education and public service employers also continue recruiting. The Webster Parish School Board and Northwest Louisiana Technical College both have employment opportunities available, while Claiborne Electric Co-op is also among area employers seeking applicants.
Manufacturing, industrial, and skilled trades employers advertising openings include Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Minden, Clement Industries, A.W. Chesterton Company, Hugg & Hall, and AC Services of Minden.
Dixie Overland Construction is hiring both experienced craftsmen and entry-level laborers. The company is offering $25 to $30 per hour for skilled concrete, pipe, and equipment positions, while entry-level laborers can earn $16 to $24 per hour with on-the-job training available for qualified applicants.
Jean Simpson Personnel Services Inc. is recruiting for a variety of clerical and industrial positions throughout the region.
Retail, restaurant, and customer service employers with openings include Brookshire’s, Ivan Smith Furniture, Brick Street Coffee, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Dairy Queen, Acadiana Seafood, Gibsland Bank & Trust, Laura Horton State Farm, Logan McConathy State Farm, and Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Minden.
Several employers are also seeking specialized positions. Moore Veterinary Clinic is hiring a receptionist and veterinary assistant, About Face Medi Spa is seeking a licensed massage therapist, and Ivan Smith Furniture is looking for an office manager.
State officials said they expect continued workforce growth as Louisiana modernizes its workforce development system to better connect education, training programs, employers, and job seekers while reducing barriers for people entering or reentering the workforce.