Hiring in the US defied expectations with 147,000 jobs added in June, according to the latest figures.
The gain was much bigger than the 110,000 additions many analysts had predicted, with government and healthcare the sectors driving the rise.
The unemployment rate declined to 4.1%, down from 4.2% in May, the Labor Department said.
However, concerns remain around hiring in the private sector, and analysts point to a growing caution among firms, with many employers hesitant to take on new staff or replace those who leave.
Job gains for April and May were also revised up by a combined total of 16,000.
Hiring for roles in the federal government, professional services, and manufacturing declined in June.
However, roles in state and local government education rose, with around 63,500 positions added, while healthcare and social assistance gained another 58,600 jobs.
Despite the unemployment rate declining, the number of long-term unemployed in the US increased by 190,000 to a total of 1.6 million people.
The monthly jobs report from the government is a closely-watched signal of economic health.