‘Job Paradox’ Baffles Economists as U.S. Employers See Shortage

As the U.S. job market comes roaring back, there’s a growing debate about whether there are enough workers to power faster economic growth.

Companies from fast food chains like Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. to chicken producer Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. and MGM Resorts International say they can’t find -- or entice -- enough workers. In earnings calls and business surveys, executives often blame stimulus checks and generous unemployment benefits for hampering hiring efforts.

But economists and policy makers are unclear about what’s really causing this gap and how long it will last. Hiring remains robust for now, indicating these labor disparities ...