Career Coaching
in Washington D.C.

Employment Landscape

Washington D.C.’s job market has grown noticeably more difficult in recent months. The recent push to reduce the federal workforce has resulted in thousands of government and contractor layoffs. That shift has slowed hiring in public administration and professional services and sent ripples through hospitality, retail, and nonprofit sectors. Small businesses, especially restaurants and cultural venues, have struggled—many closed amid labor cost increases and declining foot traffic. On the bright side, efforts to convert office buildings into housing and a major mixed‑use development around the RFK site signal longer‑term construction and real estate opportunities. Job seekers will face tight competition, particularly for white‑collar roles, even though new projects may begin opening pockets of opportunity.

Dominant Industries

Typical Roles

Hiring Patterns

Hiring is largely flat or contracting in federal‑linked white‑collar roles, with job postings falling for positions like administrative assistants and data roles. Construction and redevelopment show signs of growth, with office‑to‑housing conversions and the RFK site deal creating potential demand. Leisure and hospitality remain weak, and small employers are cautious.

"Federal cuts have slowed hiring more than you might have expected, even as new building projects are quietly tapping the brakes on a surging labor force."