The US mining industry added 6,900 jobs in January as the broader economy added more positions than expected.

The Labor Department reported Friday that the mining industry has added 75,100 jobs over the past year, almost entirely in support activities for mining.

READ: US mining industry added 3,700 jobs in December while oil and gas extraction gained 300 positions

“Labor remains tight in the mining industry,” said Bill Hunter, a director at LithiumOre Corp, a subsidiary of  Oroplata Resources Inc (OTCMKTS:ORRP). “You have seen the older generation transition out of these jobs, and you have not seen the younger workers flow in. The younger workers who are moving into the industry are not as experienced, and the companies aren’t getting the same level of productivity.”

Non-farm payroll employment increased by 304,000 in January, compared with analysts’ estimates of 158,000 jobs created.

But the unemployment rate rose 10 basis points to 4% from the prior month, compared with the consensus of 3.9%.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 102.04 points, or 0.4%, to 25,101.71. 

Contact Dennis Fitzgerald at [email protected]