Why the big increase? Nearly half (46%) of employers cited the need to offer higher wages in order to attract workers given the labor shortage.

Employers are preparing for big pay raises in 2022

On the last business day of October, the number of job openings increased to 11.0 million (+431,000). The job openings rate was little changed at 6.9 percent. Job openings increased in several industries with the largest increases in accommodation and food services (+254,000); nondurable goods manufacturing (+45,000); and educational services (+42,000). Job openings decreased in state and local government, excluding education (-115,000). The number of job openings increased in the South region.
(See table 1.)

Bureau of Labor Statistics - Job Openings and Labor Turnover Summary

U.S. job openings jump to 11 million; fewer workers voluntarily quitting