The number of registered unemployed persons in Bulgaria has reached 155,007, with the unemployment rate settling at 5.47% by the end of August, according to the Employment Agency. During the same month, 9,659 vacancies were announced on the primary labor market, representing a 14% increase compared to July (an increase of 1,211 positions).
The largest share of job vacancies was observed in the education, manufacturing, public administration, trade and automotive repair, administrative and support activities, hospitality and catering, as well as transport, storage, and postal sectors. In comparison, 8,448 positions were announced in July, with the highest demand being in education, manufacturing, public administration, trade and automotive repair, hospitality and catering, administrative and support activities, as well as human health and social work.
The list of most in-demand professions in August includes:
- teachers;
- caregivers;
- waste collection workers;
- workers in mining, manufacturing, construction, and transport;
- sales clerks, cleaners, and assistants;
- motor vehicle drivers;
- stationary machine and equipment operators;
- business and administrative specialists;
- personal service workers and others.
In September, 9,496 people utilized the Employment Agency's services for professional development, job seeking, or career changes. Through the mediation of local labor offices, 8,837 unemployed individuals have started working. Simultaneously, 659 people—including retirees, students, and those already employed—received assistance for professional development or career advancement.
Specialized subsidized employment measures helped 503 people from vulnerable groups enter the workforce. These groups include the long-term unemployed, individuals over the age of 55, youth without professional experience, and people with disabilities. Of the total number of those who started working through subsidized measures, 379 are part of projects under the "Human Resources Development" Program 2021–2027, which is co-financed by the European Social Fund Plus.
Labor market data in the country is relevant for residents of Burgas and the region when planning career development.
Furthermore, over 4,500 economically inactive persons were motivated to join the labor market in August. To achieve this goal, labor offices actively utilize the assistance of youth and Roma mediators, the Employment Agency added.