Job openings increased in July

That number is still below the 4.4 million to upwards of 5 million being hired when the recession began in December 2007, the report said. 

Turnover, which includes layoffs, voluntary separations and retirements, was unchanged from June to July. 

Today’s survey follows a slight increase in the unemployment rate, from 9.5 to 9.6 percent in August after holding steady for the previous two months.

The government’s employment report last week showed that the private sector added 67,000 jobs in August, following an upwardly revised 107,000 gain in July.

A lack of job creation is putting a strain on consumer spending and the gradual economic recovery. 

Overall, there are nearly five people competing for every job opening now, compared with about two people when the recession began nearly three years ago.