The Hunter Valley Research Foundation said yesterday that 313,600 people went to work last month, breaking the previous record of 309,700 people, set in March.

Foundation economist Andrew Searles said the Hunter’s unemployment rate had dropped to just 4.3 per cent, from 5 per cent last month.

‘‘Compared to last year there has been an increase of about 26,000 jobs in the region,’’ he said.

‘‘Of course, last year we did have a bit of a trough, due to the global financial crisis.’’

The region has stayed well under the NSW unemployment rate, which is at 5.8 per cent.

‘‘We are also seeing an increase in the work force participation rate,’’ Mr Searles said.

‘‘People who were not looking for work are coming forward now to get work and the economy is coming forward with those jobs for them.’’

Hunter Business Chamber chief executive officer Peter Shinnick said employers were now looking for more skilled workers.

‘‘The strong fundamentals of the Hunter economy including major infrastructure development – particularly in the coal chain and construction industry – is driving employment,’’ he said.

‘‘Advice from chamber members is that they are already seeing skills shortages emerging in key areas including project managers, engineering, finance and trade and technical positions.

‘‘Hunter Business Chamber members confirm that in 2010 demand for labour is increasing as confidence levels among local companies remains high.’’