Columbia, South Carolina, September 21, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce reports over 2.5 million individuals are employed, but the unemployment rate has risen to 4.3%. Governor McMaster has updated remote work policies, limiting telecommuting for state employees to enhance accountability. An ‘Education and Workforce Portal’ is being developed to connect students with job opportunities. Despite a significant number of job openings, the labor participation rate remains below the national average.
Columbia, South Carolina — The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce has announced that the state has achieved record employment levels, with more than 2.5 million individuals now employed. This marks an increase of over 30,000 employed individuals compared to the same time last year. However, despite this growth in employment numbers, the unemployment rate in South Carolina has risen to 4.3%.
In response to evolving work patterns, Governor Henry McMaster issued an executive order (2025-31) on September 12, updating remote work policies for state employees. The new regulations require state agencies to submit their telecommuting plans for approval before allowing employees to work remotely. Telecommuting is now limited to two days per week, and consecutive remote workdays are prohibited. Furthermore, remote work is not permitted for top-level agency officials, including agency directors and deputy directors. To qualify for telecommuting, state employees must have a minimum of one year of satisfactory service and a clean performance record. State agencies retain the right to revoke telecommuting privileges at any time without following the state’s grievance procedure.
The intent behind these updated telecommuting policies is to enhance accountability and efficiency within state agencies. The labor force participation rate in South Carolina was recorded at 58.6% in July, which is lower than the national rate of 62.2%. Presently, approximately 70,000 job openings are posted on the state’s employment database, indicating a significant opportunity for job seekers.
To further support workforce development, an online tool named the “Education and Workforce Portal” is being developed at a cost of $13 million. This portal is aimed at high school students and will provide valuable resources regarding education and job opportunities. It is designed to connect education, training, and workforce needs within South Carolina, offering information on college degree costs, completion timelines, available jobs, and expected salaries. The objective of the portal is to assist families in making informed decisions, ensuring that businesses have access to a pipeline of skilled workers. The implementation of this portal follows recent legislation focused on improving labor force participation rates in the state.
In addition to this initiative, there are multiple ongoing workforce development efforts in South Carolina, with numerous hiring events planned throughout September. SC Works manages the state’s largest job bank, facilitating connections between employers and job seekers and helping to match qualified candidates with available positions.
Key Statistics:
- Employed Individuals: Over 2.5 million
- Annual Increase: Over 30,000 employed individuals
- Unemployment Rate: 4.3%
- Labor Force Participation Rate: 58.6% (lower than the national rate of 62.2%)
- Job Openings: Approximately 70,000
Background on Workforce Development:
The South Carolina state agency is actively working on various programs aimed at enhancing workforce participation. These measures are important as they address the need for skills matching in a rapidly changing job market and support the state’s economic development goals. With burgeoning employment numbers juxtaposed against a rising unemployment rate, the updated policies and initiatives are critical components of the state’s approach to labor market challenges.
FAQs
What is the current employment level in South Carolina?
Over 2.5 million people are now working in South Carolina.
What is the unemployment rate in South Carolina?
The unemployment rate in South Carolina rose to 4.3%.
What is the labor force participation rate in South Carolina?
The labor force participation rate was reported at 58.6% in July.
How many job openings are available in South Carolina?
Approximately 70,000 job openings were posted on the state’s employment database as of the latest report.
What is the “Education and Workforce Portal”?
An online tool being developed to serve as a resource for high school students regarding education and job opportunities, designed to connect education, training, and workforce needs in South Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: SCDEW Marks Workforce Development Month Event with Gov. McMaster
- Wikipedia: Workforce Development
- Outsource Accelerator: South Carolina Limits Remote Work for State Employees
- Google Search: South Carolina workforce development
- Live 5 News: Hiring Events Across SC for Workforce Development Month
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic Development
- SC Daily Gazette: SC Building Online Guidance Counselor Tool
- Google News: South Carolina employment news
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