September 17, 2026 | Kiera McKinney, KESQ News Channel 3

Finding a job can be a challenge, even as employers continue to post openings across the region.

The latest federal data shows the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario area had an unemployment rate of 5.7% in July, with about 125,000 people unemployed. Overall nonfarm employment was up 0.8% compared to a year earlier, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and California’s Employment Development Department (EDD).

But the job market looks very different depending on the industry.

Construction employment was down 5.4% from a year earlier, while other sectors have continued to grow.

News Channel 3 is speaking with a local staffing company SEEK Personnel Staffing about what employers are looking for, what job seekers are experiencing and how the hiring process has changed.

SEEK helps connect workers with temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent positions throughout the Coachella Valley.

Staffing experts say some job seekers are submitting multiple applications before landing an interview, while employers can also be more selective about experience and qualifications.

OneFuture Coachella Valley hosted its Regional Coachella Valley College & Career Fair Thursday at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage. The event brought students and families together with colleges, universities, career and technical education programs, employers, military representatives and other organizations.

Organizers say the event has drawn as many as 4,000 students and family members in previous years.