Construction jobs in Austin have risen 6 percent in the month of February compared to the same month last year. This employment boost marks an increase of about 2,500 jobs. On a larger scope, Texas has also shown a 6 percent increase in construction employment, totaling about 43,800 additional jobs.

This announcement comes just a few weeks after Austin was ranked the number one metro in the nation for job creation. Between January 2011 and January 2012 Austin has added 26,800 jobs. During the same period, the state of Texas added 258,000 jobs.

The Associated General Contractors of America chief economist Ken Simonson said the increase can be credited in large part to the growing private-sector demand. New company expansions in Austin can also be attributed to an increase in the demand for construction jobs lately. Companies like Apple, Whole Foods, and HEB have all announced expansion in the Austin area that will require some sort of new construction.

There are several other major construction projects currently underway in Austin that are positively affecting construction employment. A few of these include the upcoming F1 track, the new Federal Courthouse, and the Cirrus Logic headquarters building.

Furthermore, increases in local housing market could also be a determining factor in the increase in construction job demand.

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