Although state economists are predicting that Oregon won’t see pre-recession employment levels until 2015, there is some good news on the horizon for a region that continues to feel the effects of the current recession. An early-year Future Hiring Survey conducted by the Employment Department found that one in three private sector employers expect to hire additional workers before the end of 2011.
With mildly positive job growth expected this year, the Oregon economy is poised to see as much as a 2% employment growth by the fourth quarter of 2011. A bounce-back by the professional and business service sectors is expected, as well as growth in the retail and high-tech industries. Just a few of the regions looking forward to expanded employment opportunities:
Lebanon- Located near the state capital city of Salem, Lebanon is home to approximately 16,000 residents, manufacturing giant Entek International, and the soon-to-open Western University of Health Sciences. Staffing jobs at the university will be available, as well as at new adjunct businesses such as the associated fitness center, pharmacy, coffee shop and credit union.
Medford- Oregon’s fourth-largest metro area is located less than 20 miles from the Oregon/California border and is home to Harry & David, the venerable but recently troubled gift-baskets distributor. In spite of ongoing legal challenges, the company will be adding 1,400 new call-center jobs starting in May.
Coos Bay- This small coastal community saw a huge increase in job opportunities earlier this year when First Call Resolution announced they would be adding 250 field support positions. Employees will be providing customer service to clients in the health care, travel and wireless industries.
Portland Metro Area- With Intel, the Portland Timbers, Vestas, McMenamins and other industry powerhouses announcing plans to hire hundreds of workers in the coming months, the outlook is brightening for job seekers and those looking to relocate to the metro area.
very interesting article. the same should be considered for those seeking work in my area. Thanks for posting this