Missouri Sees Strong Economic Recovery

Governor Mike Parson celebrated Missouri's strong economic position as the number of Missourians on unemployment decreases, businesses continue to invest and expand in Missouri, and the state earns several economic recognitions. 

We didn't force businesses to shut their doors or Missourians out of the workforce - Missouri Governor Mike Parson

"Throughout the pandemic, we took a balanced approach that protected the health and safety of Missourians without sacrificing their livelihoods," Governor Parson said. "We didn't force businesses to shut their doors or Missourians out of the workforce. Thanks to our common sense measures, Missouri is now in a strong economic position with a 3.8 percent unemployment rate, thousands of new jobs created, and billions of dollars in business investment." 

In September 2021, Missouri's unemployment rate fell to 3.8 percent from a high of 12.5 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic. Missouri's unemployment rate prior to the pandemic was 3.7 percent.

Only 15,000 Missourians are currently drawing unemployment benefits, down from 124,000 at the beginning of 2021 and 385,000 in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. 

If you are still looking for employment, the Kearney Chamber of Commerce has set up a job board Facebook group which connects local businesses and perspective employees. Here’s a sample of job postings at https://www.facebook.com/groups/kearneyjobboard:

Ply Gem is NOW HIRING and making on the spot job offers on a weekly basis. Ply Gem is located at 303 W Major St. in Kearney.

Assured Healthcare is hiring highly motivated, compassionate and reliable caregivers and nurses. Applicants must have a driver's license, car insurance and reliable transportation. They are accepting resumes and scheduling interviews daily. Applicants can call 816-415-8200 for more information and interviews.

Signarama is looking for a production associate  and sign maker who can help us make signs and apply vinyl. Starting pay $17-18/hr. and they are located at 1005 Middlebrook Dr. Liberty, MO. Applicants should email resumes to  Info@signarama-kcnorth.com

Three Birdies Boutique is looking to fill a part time position in a fun work environment that keeps you busy all day. They're looking for a fun, enthusiastic, hard working, self motivated person to join their team. Visit https://forms.gle/LUKcTnqMwap1xxKt5 to apply.

Verizon in Kearney and Excelsior Springs are looking for two full-time Sales Associates for IMMEDIATE HIRE. For more information call 816-986-8777 or visit either location at the following addresses: 408 W. 6th Street, Kearney, or 122 Corum Rd., Excelsior Springs, MO.

Mr. Dell’s Foods is hiring production line associates. Starting wage for 2nd Shift is $15.10 per hour and includes great benefits. For more information, call 816-628-4644, stop by 300 West Major Street, or visit www.mrdells.com.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story