Employers in Portland offer diverse opportunities across multiple industries, making the city an attractive destination for professionals considering moving to Portland. From technology and healthcare to finance and retail, companies in Portland provide a strong job market with competitive salaries and growth potential. With major employers like Intel, Nike, OHSU, and Adidas, the city fosters innovation and economic stability, drawing talent from across the country. Additionally, Portland’s commitment to sustainability and work-life balance enhances its appeal, making it an ideal place for career-driven individuals seeking both professional success and a high quality of life.

Top 25 Employers in Portland

This guide highlights the top 25 employers in Portland, offering valuable insights for those interested in working in Portland or relocating to Portland. Whether you’re exploring opportunities in healthcare, public service, or the booming tech sector, these companies provide thousands of jobs and career advancement options. For newcomers, understanding the local job landscape is essential when planning a move, and this resource serves as a roadmap to the city’s most prominent and stable employers. With a thriving economy and a range of industries to choose from, Portland continues to be a top destination for professionals looking to build their future.

1. Providence Health & Services
As Portland’s largest employer, Providence Health & Services has over 23,000 employees. The extensive healthcare network operates hospitals and clinics throughout the region, offering numerous roles for medical professionals and administrative staff.

2. Intel Corporation
With approximately 22,000 employees in the Portland area, Intel Corporation is a tech giant specializing in semiconductor manufacturing. The company’s Hillsboro campuses are a major hub for engineers, researchers, and IT professionals.

3. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
OHSU employs over 19,000 people in healthcare, education, and research. As one of the top medical institutions in the Pacific Northwest, it offers career opportunities for doctors, nurses, researchers, and administrative personnel.

4. Nike, Inc.
Headquartered in Beaverton, Nike, Inc. employs more than 15,000 individuals. The global sportswear company offers roles in design, marketing, sales, and corporate operations, attracting creative and business-minded professionals alike.

5. Legacy Health
Legacy Health, a nonprofit healthcare system, employs approximately 13,000 people across multiple hospitals and clinics in Portland. The organization provides careers in medical services, administration, and patient care.

6. Kaiser Permanente
With over 12,000 employees, Kaiser Permanente is a major healthcare provider in the city. It offers integrated medical care and insurance services, making it a key player in Portland’s healthcare landscape.

7. Fred Meyer Stores
A leading retailer headquartered in Portland, Fred Meyer employs around 9,000 people. It provides career opportunities in retail management, logistics, and customer service.

8. Portland Public Schools (PPS)
Portland Public Schools employs approximately 7,400 educators and staff. As the largest school district in the city, it offers roles in teaching, administration, and support services.

9. The Standard (StanCorp Financial Group)
The Standard employs roughly 3,500 individuals in finance and insurance. Headquartered in Portland, the company specializes in retirement plans and disability insurance.

10. City of Portland
Portland’s municipal government employs over 6,000 people in various departments, providing stable public service careers in administration, public works, and community planning.

11. Portland State University (PSU)
PSU is a major public university with over 4,600 employees. It offers careers in education, research, and student services, contributing to the city’s academic landscape.

12. TriMet
As Portland’s regional transit agency, TriMet employs 3,300 individuals in transportation operations, maintenance, and administration, ensuring the city’s public transit system runs efficiently.

13. Daimler Truck North America
Headquartered in Portland, Daimler Truck North America employs nearly 2,800 people in vehicle manufacturing, engineering, and business operations.

14. U.S. Bank
With over 2,000 employees in the Portland area, U.S. Bank offers careers in banking, lending, and financial management.

15. Adidas North America
Adidas has its North American headquarters in Portland, employing about 1,700 people in product development, marketing, and corporate operations.

16. Columbia Sportswear
Another global sports apparel brand headquartered in Portland, Columbia Sportswear employs approximately 1,500 individuals across retail, corporate, and supply chain sectors.

17. Multnomah County
The Multnomah County government employs around 5,500 people, offering public sector jobs in social services, law enforcement, and public health.

18. Portland General Electric (PGE)
PGE is the primary electric utility in the region, employing over 2,800 workers in energy production, customer service, and sustainability initiatives.

19. Wells Fargo
A significant employer in Portland’s banking industry, Wells Fargo has around 1,200 employees specializing in financial services, lending, and customer support.

20. Airbnb Portland
The Airbnb Portland office employs hundreds of people in customer service, data analysis, and tech development, playing a key role in the company’s operations.

21. Amazon Fulfillment Center – Troutdale
Located near Portland, Amazon’s fulfillment center in Troutdale employs over 1,000 workers in logistics and warehouse operations.

22. Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
A division of Legacy Health, Legacy Emanuel Medical Center employs over 1,500 healthcare professionals, serving as one of Portland’s largest trauma centers.

23. Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT)
ODOT employs around 2,000 individuals in transportation infrastructure, maintenance, and public safety roles.

24. Vestas Wind Systems
A leading wind turbine manufacturer, Vestas Wind Systems employs over 1,000 people in engineering, renewable energy research, and sustainability initiatives.

25. Intel’s Ronler Acres Campus
While Intel Corporation as a whole is one of the top employers in the Portland area, the Ronler Acres in Hillsboro specifically employs thousands of engineers, scientists, and technicians. This site is known for cutting-edge semiconductor research and development.

Why Working in Portland is a Smart Move

For those relocating to Portland, the city’s strong job market spans industries such as healthcare, technology, finance, and retail. With a focus on sustainability and work-life balance, companies in Portland offer competitive salaries and progressive workplace cultures.

Beyond career opportunities, Portland’s vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and thriving food culture make it a desirable place to live and work. Whether drawn to the innovation of Intel, the healthcare expertise of OHSU, or the creative energy of Nike and Adidas, professionals will find numerous career paths in the city.

 

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