At the Town of Camp Verde’s Business Resource Innovation Center (BRIC), we know that workforce challenges are top of mind for many of our local businesses and employers. That’s why we’re committed to sharing tools, insights, and resources that help businesses attract and retain top talent in an ever-changing labor market.
One of the most impactful ways to do this? Understanding what today’s workforce considers a “Good Job.”
What Is a Good Job?
A good job goes far beyond just a paycheck. It represents stability, fair wages, benefits, opportunities for advancement, and a safe, respectful workplace. When jobs meet these standards, everyone benefits—from employees and employers to the broader community and economy.
According to research and national frameworks, a Good Job is defined by characteristics that lead to positive outcomes:
- Attracting Top Talent: Competitive pay, benefits, and career paths attract skilled, motivated applicants.
- Retention: Workers are more likely to stay in jobs that offer security, flexibility, and chances for growth.
- Productivity: Clearly defined roles and access to the right tools help employees do their best work.
- Engagement: People feel more motivated and committed when they’re respected and supported.
- Goal Alignment: Well-structured roles contribute directly to a company’s mission and performance.
- Positive Culture: Respect, collaboration, and innovation are cornerstones of productive workplaces.
- Risk Management: Good Jobs meet legal, safety, and ethical standards—protecting both the worker and the organization.
Why Good Jobs Matter in Arizona
Arizona’s workforce landscape is shifting. As of March 2025, the state’s unemployment rate rose to 4.1%, yet many businesses still struggle to fill positions. Factors like lingering pandemic effects, childcare challenges, rising living costs, and shifting career values have changed what many people want from work.
That’s where the Good Jobs Framework becomes a strategic advantage. By understanding and addressing what job seekers value most, employers can improve their hiring success, reduce turnover, and enhance their reputation.
What Do Northern Arizona Workers Want?
The Gallup Arizona Survey, conducted in partnership with the Center for the Future of Arizona, asked employed Arizonans what matters most in a job. Arizonans know what they want from work. The findings from the latest survey in 2020 show that Arizonans of all backgrounds want jobs that use their talents, support their futures, and strengthen our economy.
The following table shows the percentage of employed Northern Arizonans who are satisfied with the following aspects of their primary job.
Case Study: Manufacturing Company
In 2022, a manufacturing company located in Northern Arizona, adopted a Good Jobs Framework to address high turnover, low productivity, and difficulty attracting skilled labor. The company focused on five core areas:
- Compensation and Benefits:
- Conducted a wage analysis and raised starting pay by 15%
- Introduced profit-sharing tied to company performance
- Transitioned workers to full-time roles
- Expanded health and parental leave benefits
- Career Advancement Opportunities:
- Partnered with local colleges for training and development
- Created internal promotion pathways
- Stable Scheduling and Job Security:
- Implemented predictable scheduling practices
- Health and Safety:
- Added ergonomic equipment and safety training
- Launched wellness and mental health programs
- Worker Voice:
- Held regular feedback sessions and formed leadership committees with employee reps
- Outcomes:
- Turnover dropped by 30%
- Productivity rose by 20%
- Job applications increased by 50%
- 25% of employees joined advancement programs
- Employee satisfaction improved by 40%
What Can Employers Do?
Creating Good Jobs doesn’t require overhauling your business overnight. And, it’s not just about money. It starts with rethinking how roles are structured and how employees are supported. Consider the following actions:
- Offering flexible schedules or hybrid work options
- Investing in training and internal advancement pathways
- Creating a culture of communication, respect, and feedback
- Reviewing job descriptions and pay scales
Need Help Getting Started?
If you’re interested in learning more about Good Jobs practices and how this approach can help your business recruit and retain quality employees, we’re here to help. Contact the Town’s Economic Development Office at: econdev@campverde.az.gov.