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GEORGIA (WALB) -Georgia’s workforce is hitting new milestones, even as some job numbers show slight declines.

The newest Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) report indicates both the state’s labor force and total employment reached record highs in February, with more than 5.4 million people working or actively looking for work.

The state’s unemployment rate sits at 3.6%, which is below the national average.

Health care continues to lead job growth, adding the most positions and reaching an all-time high.

“Georgia continues to set record highs in both employment and the size of its workforce. That means more Georgians are working and contributing to our economy than ever before. Our focus remains on connecting Georgians to good, mortgage-paying jobs and supporting the employers who drive job creation across this state.”

However, overall job numbers dipped slightly for the second straight month, signaling a cooling trend in some sectors despite broader workforce gains.

At the same time, unemployment claims fell to their lowest level in months, suggesting continued stability in layoffs.

Jobs were down over the month in construction, transportation, warehousing and utilities, retail trade, accommodation and food services, and professional and technical services.

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