(SOUTHERN ILLINOIS) — Unemployment continued to decline in all 18 counties in South Central Illinois when compared to one year ago. The data is not seasonally adjusted. Labor market conditions continued to improve through the end of 2014 in South Central Illinois. Employment levels for temporary and part-time workers at Retailers and Restaurants remained strong. Construction activity on roads, schools and commercial projects remained at a significant level. Payroll gains occurred in Wholesale Trade, Transportation, and Health Services. Several area manufacturers added production workers in 2014. Many employment opportunities at the end of 2014 were advertised in Healthcare, Transportation and Sales. Job openings also were reported in Office and Administrative Support, Management, and Production occupations. Employment opportunities included jobs in Engineering, Computer Services and Food Preparation. Also, there were a number of job openings for Social Service positions and Installation, Maintenance, and Repair occupations. Jefferson County posted a 5.8% for December, down from 6.3% in November and from 9% in December 2013. Marion County went from 8.3% to 7.9% over the last month after posting an 11.4% showing in December 2013 and Washington County dropped from 4.6% to 4.1% over the past month. Hamilton County held steady at 6.4% last month and Wayne County dropped from a 6.8% to a 6.5%. Clinton County dropped from 4.8% to 4.4%.