Although the US economy is officially in recession, many Long Island businesses are still experiencing growth and continuing to hire. Some of Long Island’s largest employers, including the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System (over 27,000), the Diocese of Rockville Center (over 17,000), and Stony Brook University (over 13,000), they continue to offer opportunities in a wide range of careers. Additionally, many Long Island businesses are in industries that are essentially “recession proof.” These industries include healthcare, pharmaceuticals, education, real estate rental, insurance, tax claims, DIY stores for home repair / construction supplies, energy, police / security, and discount retail stores. With an increase in tourism, employment in the hotel industry remains viable on Long Island. In fact, three new hotels were completed in 2008.

Another area with a demand for healthy talent is the “green” industry sector. Long Island is home to an increasing number of companies involved in businesses ranging from solar energy design and biofuel supply to green energy marketing and geothermal energy. Growth in these areas is projected to reach triple digits over the next 10 years, with related jobs in engineering, agriculture, energy, natural resources, environmental education, science, business and sustainable development, and green transportation.

Although many of your clients appear to be more cautious about their current hiring practices, hiring companies continue to see a high demand for talent in healthcare, education, insurance and engineering on Long Island. Additionally, Long Island employers are using more creative and integrated approaches to engage the passive job seeker through email blasts, direct mail, ad campaigns, specialty sites, and employer referral programs, along with leading forums. and print ads.

Peter Simone of the Suffolk County Department of Labor says that “although the job market continues to tighten, with more people looking for work and fewer jobs available, there are still some bright spots in health care and education. The trick remains in the right job seeker skills with the available positions. “

Although home construction plummeted in 2008, President Obama’s proposed economic infrastructure plan is expected to generate unprecedented demand for engineers, surveying and mapping technicians, and highway construction workers. Although highway projects appear to be the bulk of the work, other planned Long Island projects include improvements to the wastewater treatment plants at Cedar Creek and Bergen Point and new sewers at Wyandanch.

Another plan that would stimulate hiring, and is currently awaiting federal approval, is the Shinnecock Indian Nation Casino. This project has been labeled an “economic jackpot for the county, for the construction industry and for job applicants.” It is estimated that the establishment of the game could generate more than 10,000 new jobs and more than $ 400 million in local wages. Additionally, the effect on local businesses that would result from Connecticut visitors could contribute an estimated $ 200 + million to the eastern economy and consequently spur more hiring.