Arkansas’ unemployment rate jumped five-tenths of a percentage point in October to 7.6%.  September’s state jobless rate was 7.1% and one year ago, unemployment in Arkansas stood at 5.4%. The U.S. jobless rate pushed higher to 10.2%.

Unemployment in Arkansas is at its highest level since September 1988, according to the latest report from the state’s Department of Workforce Services.

There were no real surprises in the sector gains and losses.  Government employment rose during the month by 2,800, mostly in public schools.  Professional and business services added 2,700 workers.

The trade, transportation and utility sector saw a decline in jobs of 1,600 from September to October.

In a year-over-year comparison, manufacturing employment has fallen by 18,500 jobs.  The trade and transportation sector has seen a decrease of 14,100 workers.  Construction jobs have dropped by 5,200.

Educational and health services have grown employment by 9,800 since October 2008.  Most of those gains are in health care and social assistance.  Government employment has risen by 5,100.