A hiring sign at Express at NorthPark Center on Friday, May 28, 2021, in Dallas. (Juan Figueroa/The Dallas Morning News/TNS) Juan Figueroa/10054426A/TNS There are almost 70% more job vacancies than in the pre-pandemic and 10% fewer people looking for work. Hereâs one more reason to shop earlier this holiday season. For decades, seasonal holiday hiring was predictable, and the jobs were filled by people who needed extra money to buy gifts. This year seasonal jobs will be plentiful, but workers probably wonât be. Unemployment is high at the same time as a labor shortage. Retailers are bracing for it.