In a recent report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, it was revealed that 8.4 million people in the nation are currently working multiple jobs, marking the highest number of multiple job holders since the onset of the pandemic. This trend is not isolated to the national level, as even in North Dakota, 21,000 individuals are juggling two or more jobs to make ends meet.
One such individual is Patrick Hendrickson, a financial analyst for the North Dakota Insurance Department who also works part-time at The CraftCade. Hendrickson initially took on a second job to supplement his income for his wedding, but five years later, he finds himself still balancing the demands of two jobs alongside his family life.
For Hendrickson, the decision to work two jobs was driven by financial necessity. “Keeping ahead of the inflow. I just had to fix two cars, my wife had surgery, I just got braces on the big one. It’s a never-ending battle,” he shared. While the extra income from his second job helps cover bills and afford some extras, Hendrickson acknowledges the sacrifices he has to make, such as missing out on quality time with his one-year-old daughter.
Despite the challenges, Hendrickson is not alone in his situation. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, he is part of the 5.2 percent of the workforce in the country with more than one job. This increase in multiple job holders can be attributed to workforce shortages, with employers struggling to attract and retain employees. However, Job Service North Dakota suggests that offering incentives and increasing pay in primary jobs could potentially reduce the number of individuals working multiple jobs.
While having two paychecks may provide some financial relief, Hendrickson emphasizes the importance of organization in managing two work schedules. “Christmas looks a lot better from the kids’ perspectives,” he noted, highlighting the positive impact of his second income on his family.
In conclusion, the rise in multiple job holders reflects the current economic landscape, where individuals like Patrick Hendrickson are willing to put in extra hours to secure their financial stability. As the workforce continues to evolve, finding a balance between work, family, and personal time remains a challenge for many Americans.
