Updated at 8:50 a.m. ET
The Labor Department says that the U.S. economy added 173,000 jobs in August, a figure that fell short of expectations but nonetheless appeared to shrug off turmoil in overseas markets, particularly China.
In a separate survey, the department's Bureau of Labor Statistics said the unemployment rate had dipped to 5.1 percent — a seven-year low.
Many economists had forecast 220,000 new jobs for the month, an increase over the 215,000 jobs added in July, a figure that was revised upward to 245,000 jobs. June's figure was also revised upward from 231,000 to 245,000.
The civilian labor force participation rate — essentially the pool of workers, remained at 62.6 percent for the third straight month.
The number of part-time workers was at 6.5 million, little changed from July. The average workweek edged up 0.1 hour to 34.6 hours in August, an indication of more full-time positions.
Non-farm payrolls rose by 8 cents to an average of $25.09 per hour, following a 6 cent gain in July. Hourly earnings have increased 2.2 percent over the year, according to the BLS.
It's unclear how the latest report might impact a Federal Reserve meeting later this month in which the possibility of raising interest rates is sure to be discussed.
Health care and social assistance accounted for 56,000 of the newly created jobs, while financial activities accounted for 19,000 jobs. Food service and drinking establishments added 26,000 jobs.
By contrast, the manufacturing sector shed 17,000 jobs in August despite a gain of 6,000 positions in auto and auto parts manufacturing and another 4,000 jobs in durable goods manufacturing. Mining also lost 7,000 jobs.
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