
Using data from the Iowa Workforce Development’s laborshed reports from 2024, Greater Iowa City, Inc. has analyzed the focal insights and data points about workforce trends, commuting patterns, and occupational opportunities in these pivotal sectors of Johnson County’s economy.
For full details on each sector, like common job search tools or the number of underemployment, interested parties can view full industry laborshed reports on the Greater Iowa City website.
Manufacturing:
Advanced manufacturing in Johnson County has a workforce of over 87,000 individuals, commuting an average of 17 miles for work. Key takeaways include:
- Job diversity: Roles such as industrial machinery mechanics and production managers earn annual salaries ranging from $40,900 to $117,385.
- Benefits: Health and dental insurance (96.2% of employees are covered), retirement plans, and incentive bonuses are highly valued.
Biotechnology:
Johnson County’s biotechnology sector has a workforce of over 43,000 individuals, commuting an average of 12 miles for work. Key takeaways include:
- High educational attainment: Most employees hold bachelor’s (32.3%) or master’s degrees (29%), with a total of 61.3% of the workforce holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Compensation: Biochemists and biomedical engineers earn median salaries of $92,745 and $84,670, respectively.
Financial services:
The financial services sector, highlighted by robust local engagement, has a workforce of over 58,000 individuals commuting an average of seven miles. Key takeaways include:
- Job diversity: High-paying positions such as financial analysts and managers earn median salaries of $87,802 and $127,788, respectively. However, unlike the three other sectors covered in the report, 0% of financial service workers were self-employed.
- Compact laborshed: Workers in this sector are the most closely concentrated to their place of work, showing the financial sector is most likely to live and work in the same community.
Warehouse and distribution:
Johnson County’s warehouse and distribution industry employs over 87,000 individuals, commuting an average of 18 miles. Key takeaways include:
- Critical occupations: Roles such as logisticians and heavy truck drivers earn competitive median salaries of $87,993 and $53,443.
- Full-time standard: 90.5% of the workforce is employed full-time, with a significant number in cross-functional roles. Individuals in these roles work an average of 45 hours per week, matching the average amount worked in the manufacturing sector.
As stated in a blog post from Greater Iowa City, these industry-specific laborshed reports emphasize Johnson County’s position as a regional economic leader. By spotlighting workforce dynamics and growth opportunities, the reports are invaluable tools for businesses, policymakers, and job seekers looking to navigate and contribute to the area’s economic success.