Semiconductor job growth on the up and up

Semiconductor manufacturing jobs have outpaced US job growth and increased 3.7% over last year, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA).

The US semiconductor industry now employs almost a quarter of a million workers and added jobs three times faster than the rest of the US economy, according to an analysis of government data. Total direct US semiconductor employment is estimated at 244,800.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the semiconductor industry’s manufacturing workforce grew by 3.7% over the previous year. In comparison, jobs throughout the broader US economy increased by 1.2% over the same time period.

All employment figures reflect recently released 2011 BLS data. Total semiconductor employment data is based on the number of semiconductor employees in the US manufacturing sector as reported by BLS, plus an estimate for the number of semiconductor workers employed by semiconductor fabless firms, which BLS currently counts in the wholesale trade sector. For more detailed information, please view SIA’s Employment Issue Paper.

“Semiconductor workers - a quarter of a million strong and growing - are creating the technology breakthroughs that improve our lives, strengthen our country and build our future,” said Brian Toohey, SIA president and CEO. “Through their hard work, the US semiconductor industry continues to create jobs and spur growth despite a challenging national economy.

“Semiconductor job growth is an encouraging sign for our industry and the US economy,” said Toohey. “With effective government policies that encourage growth and remove barriers to innovation, the semiconductor industry will continue to drive America’s economic strength, national security and global competitiveness.”