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News Release

WorkSource Oregon Expands Mobile Services To Reach Southwestern Oregon Communities - 11/03/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department. 

 

For immediate release: Nov. 3, 2026

Media contact: [email protected]

WorkSource Oregon expands mobile services to reach Southwestern Oregon communities

Salem, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has expanded the western WorkSource Oregon Mobile Center route to bring employment and career services to job seekers across Southwestern Oregon.

 

The mobile WorkSource Oregon center serving Western Oregon has added eight new stops: Cave Junction, Canyonville, Elkton, McKenzie Bridge, Myrtle Point, Oakridge, Port Orford, and Shady Cove. These locations will help more rural Oregonians connect with employment resources without having to travel as far from home. Job seekers can find upcoming stops, locations, and schedules on the WorkSource Oregon Mobile Centers page on WorkSourceOregon.org. Schedules vary by community, so customers are encouraged to check the website to find the next mobile center visit to their local area.

 

“Finding a job can be challenging, especially for people who live far from employment and training resources,” said OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “By expanding WorkSource Oregon’s mobile center routes, we're bringing those resources directly to more communities. We want Oregonians to have access to the tools and support they need to find work, develop new skills and advance their careers, no matter where they live.”

 

OED launched three mobile WorkSource Oregon centers in May 2026 to serve rural, frontier, and Tribal communities across Western, Central and Eastern Oregon. The mobile centers are equipped with workstations, computers and secure internet access. WorkSource Oregon staff travel to communities along each route to provide personalized career support.

 

The mobile centers offer many of the same services available at WorkSource Oregon's 37 physical locations. Job seekers can get one-on-one help with resumes, job applications and interview preparation. Staff can also help customers explore career opportunities and connect with employers who are hiring.

 

People interested in changing careers or developing new skills can learn about training programs, apprenticeships and other educational opportunities. Staff can also connect eligible customers with resources that help address barriers to employment, such as transportation, work clothing or training costs.

 

The expanded route builds on OED's efforts to make employment services more accessible across the state. For people who live in rural communities, traveling to a WorkSource Oregon center can take significant time and resources. Mobile centers help reduce those barriers by bringing services directly to the communities they serve.

 

“Someone looking for work shouldn't have to travel long distances just to get help with a resume or explore training opportunities,” said Workforce Operations Director Jim Pfarrer. “Our mobile centers allow us to meet job seekers in their own communities and provide personalized support. With these additional stops, we'll be able to reach more Oregonians and help them take the next step toward employment.”

 

The mobile centers are sponsored by OED in partnership with the Oregon Department of Human Services. They also connect customers with other workforce programs and services. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service, including referrals to specialized employment resources.

 

All WorkSource Oregon services are offered at no cost to job seekers, and no appointments are required.

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

Need help?

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected]. 

 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]. 

 

###

WorkSource Oregon Expands Mobile Services To Reach Southwestern Oregon Communities - 11/03/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department. 

 

For immediate release: Nov. 3, 2026

Media contact: [email protected]

WorkSource Oregon expands mobile services to reach Southwestern Oregon communities

Salem, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has expanded the western WorkSource Oregon Mobile Center route to bring employment and career services to job seekers across Southwestern Oregon.

 

The mobile WorkSource Oregon center serving Western Oregon has added eight new stops: Cave Junction, Canyonville, Elkton, McKenzie Bridge, Myrtle Point, Oakridge, Port Orford, and Shady Cove. These locations will help more rural Oregonians connect with employment resources without having to travel as far from home. Job seekers can find upcoming stops, locations, and schedules on the WorkSource Oregon Mobile Centers page on WorkSourceOregon.org. Schedules vary by community, so customers are encouraged to check the website to find the next mobile center visit to their local area.

 

“Finding a job can be challenging, especially for people who live far from employment and training resources,” said OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “By expanding WorkSource Oregon’s mobile center routes, we're bringing those resources directly to more communities. We want Oregonians to have access to the tools and support they need to find work, develop new skills and advance their careers, no matter where they live.”

 

OED launched three mobile WorkSource Oregon centers in May 2026 to serve rural, frontier, and Tribal communities across Western, Central and Eastern Oregon. The mobile centers are equipped with workstations, computers and secure internet access. WorkSource Oregon staff travel to communities along each route to provide personalized career support.

 

The mobile centers offer many of the same services available at WorkSource Oregon's 37 physical locations. Job seekers can get one-on-one help with resumes, job applications and interview preparation. Staff can also help customers explore career opportunities and connect with employers who are hiring.

 

People interested in changing careers or developing new skills can learn about training programs, apprenticeships and other educational opportunities. Staff can also connect eligible customers with resources that help address barriers to employment, such as transportation, work clothing or training costs.

 

The expanded route builds on OED's efforts to make employment services more accessible across the state. For people who live in rural communities, traveling to a WorkSource Oregon center can take significant time and resources. Mobile centers help reduce those barriers by bringing services directly to the communities they serve.

 

“Someone looking for work shouldn't have to travel long distances just to get help with a resume or explore training opportunities,” said Workforce Operations Director Jim Pfarrer. “Our mobile centers allow us to meet job seekers in their own communities and provide personalized support. With these additional stops, we'll be able to reach more Oregonians and help them take the next step toward employment.”

 

The mobile centers are sponsored by OED in partnership with the Oregon Department of Human Services. They also connect customers with other workforce programs and services. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service, including referrals to specialized employment resources.

 

All WorkSource Oregon services are offered at no cost to job seekers, and no appointments are required.

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

Need help?

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected]. 

 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]. 

 

###

Oregon Employment Department Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month - 10/23/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department. 

 

For immediate release: October 23, 2026

Media Contact: [email protected]

Oregon Employment Department celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Salem, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) this October by highlighting how people with disabilities contribute to Oregon’s workforce and how employers can draw from this talented pool of individuals.

 

This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” recognizes the skills and contributions people with disabilities bring to workplaces, communities, and the economy.

 

WorkSource Oregon — a statewide partnership that includes OED’s Workforce Operations division — provides services to help job seekers with disabilities find jobs that match their skills and interests. WorkSource Oregon can also support employers in matching skilled people with disabilities with their specific job openings.

 

Job seekers, including those with disabilities, can meet one-on-one with staff to identify employment goals and develop a plan for their job search. Staff can help with resumes, applications, and interviews and connect job seekers with employers and job opportunities. Customers can also explore career options, training, and other resources that can help them prepare for and succeed in a new job.

 

“Oregon’s workforce is stronger when people have opportunities to use their skills, build careers, and contribute to their communities,” said OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “We’re honored to help job seekers with disabilities connect with opportunities to thrive in the workplace, and with partner agencies for added support.”

 

WorkSource Oregon partners include the Oregon Department of Human Services’ Vocational Rehabilitation program, the Oregon Commission for the Blind, and other workforce partners that provide individuals with disabilities with specialized employment services and supports. Vocational Rehabilitation helps remove possible barriers to employment, and the Oregon Commission for the Blind provides job search assistance, skills training, and workplace support for eligible Oregonians who are blind.

 

These WSO partnerships help job seekers identify career goals, build skills, and connect with employment opportunities. They also allow customers to access different types of support through Oregon’s broader workforce system as they move toward employment.

 

WorkSource Oregon also works with businesses that want to recruit and retain workers with disabilities. Staff can help employers reach potential candidates and connect with workforce resources. These partnerships can help businesses expand their talent pool while creating more opportunities for job seekers.

 

“Every job seeker brings different skills, experiences, and goals to their job search,” said Workforce Operations Director Jim Pfarrer. “We help job seekers with disabilities explore career opportunities, prepare for employment and connect with employers. We also work with our partners to make sure people can access the services and support they need to succeed.”

 

WorkSource Oregon staff can help employers who want to use National Disability Employment Awareness Month as an opportunity to explore how they can improve their recruitment, hiring and retention practices to expand opportunities for workers with disabilities. Disability can be apparent or non-apparent, and every worker brings different strengths, experiences, and perspectives to the workplace.

 

Job seekers and businesses can learn more about free WorkSource Oregon services and find their nearest WorkSource Oregon center at WorkSourceOregon.org.

 

People who need an accommodation or help accessing WorkSource Oregon services can also contact their local WorkSource Oregon center for help.

 

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

 

Need help?

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected]. 

 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]. 

 

###

 

 

Oregon Employment Department Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month - 10/23/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department. 

 

For immediate release: October 23, 2026

Media Contact: [email protected]

Oregon Employment Department celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Salem, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) this October by highlighting how people with disabilities contribute to Oregon’s workforce and how employers can draw from this talented pool of individuals.

 

This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” recognizes the skills and contributions people with disabilities bring to workplaces, communities, and the economy.

 

WorkSource Oregon — a statewide partnership that includes OED’s Workforce Operations division — provides services to help job seekers with disabilities find jobs that match their skills and interests. WorkSource Oregon can also support employers in matching skilled people with disabilities with their specific job openings.

 

Job seekers, including those with disabilities, can meet one-on-one with staff to identify employment goals and develop a plan for their job search. Staff can help with resumes, applications, and interviews and connect job seekers with employers and job opportunities. Customers can also explore career options, training, and other resources that can help them prepare for and succeed in a new job.

 

“Oregon’s workforce is stronger when people have opportunities to use their skills, build careers, and contribute to their communities,” said OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “We’re honored to help job seekers with disabilities connect with opportunities to thrive in the workplace, and with partner agencies for added support.”

 

WorkSource Oregon partners include the Oregon Department of Human Services’ Vocational Rehabilitation program, the Oregon Commission for the Blind, and other workforce partners that provide individuals with disabilities with specialized employment services and supports. Vocational Rehabilitation helps remove possible barriers to employment, and the Oregon Commission for the Blind provides job search assistance, skills training, and workplace support for eligible Oregonians who are blind.

 

These WSO partnerships help job seekers identify career goals, build skills, and connect with employment opportunities. They also allow customers to access different types of support through Oregon’s broader workforce system as they move toward employment.

 

WorkSource Oregon also works with businesses that want to recruit and retain workers with disabilities. Staff can help employers reach potential candidates and connect with workforce resources. These partnerships can help businesses expand their talent pool while creating more opportunities for job seekers.

 

“Every job seeker brings different skills, experiences, and goals to their job search,” said Workforce Operations Director Jim Pfarrer. “We help job seekers with disabilities explore career opportunities, prepare for employment and connect with employers. We also work with our partners to make sure people can access the services and support they need to succeed.”

 

WorkSource Oregon staff can help employers who want to use National Disability Employment Awareness Month as an opportunity to explore how they can improve their recruitment, hiring and retention practices to expand opportunities for workers with disabilities. Disability can be apparent or non-apparent, and every worker brings different strengths, experiences, and perspectives to the workplace.

 

Job seekers and businesses can learn more about free WorkSource Oregon services and find their nearest WorkSource Oregon center at WorkSourceOregon.org.

 

People who need an accommodation or help accessing WorkSource Oregon services can also contact their local WorkSource Oregon center for help.

 

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

 

Need help?

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected]. 

 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]. 

 

###

 

 

WorkSource Oregon Lane Invites Job Seekers To Explore Opportunities Across Five Local Industries - 10/22/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department. 

 

For immediate release: Oct. 22, 2026

Media Contact: [email protected]

Media Advisory

WorkSource Oregon Lane invites job seekers to explore opportunities across five local industries

 

WHO:               WorkSource Oregon Lane

WHAT:              Weeklong job fair marathon

WHEN:             Monday, Oct. 26, through Friday, Oct. 30, 2026

  • Veterans and eligible spouses: Noon to 12:30 p.m. daily
  • All job seekers: 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. daily

WHERE:          2510 Oakmont Way (south parking lot), Eugene, OR 97401

 

EUGENE, Ore. — WorkSource Oregon will host a weeklong job fair marathon at its Eugene location Oct. 26–30. Veterans and eligible spouses will receive priority of service each day from noon to 12:30 p.m. The job fair is open to all job seekers daily from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

 

Job seekers can meet local employers, explore entry-level positions, and learn about career pathways in Lane County. Each day will focus on a different industry:

  • Monday, Oct. 26: Food, leisure, and hospitality
  • Tuesday, Oct. 27: Distribution and retail
  • Wednesday, Oct. 28: Manufacturing and production
  • Thursday, Oct. 29: Government, education, and non-profit
  • Friday, Oct. 30: Health care and social services

“Whether you’re launching a new career or taking the next step in your professional journey, our job fair marathon is a great place to start,” said Jim Pfarrer, Workforce Operations director for the Oregon Employment Department. “This event gives you a real advantage — the chance to learn what local employers value, make meaningful connections, share your resume, and even explore on‑the‑spot interview opportunities. We encourage everyone to come ready to engage, ask questions, collect contacts, and confidently show employers what you bring to the table.”

 

The event is free and open to the public. Job seekers are encouraged to register in advance. Members of the media are welcome to attend.

 

For more information, contact WorkSource Oregon Lane at 541-686-7601.

 

Job seekers can also visit QualityInfo.org to explore skills, wages, and career pathways for in-demand occupations and industries in Oregon.

 

The Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon partner with businesses and employers across the state to help connect them with qualified workers. Employers interested in collaborating on a hiring event or learning more about WorkSource Oregon employer services can contact [email protected].

 

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

 

Need help?

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected]. 

 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]. 

 

###

 

 

WorkSource Oregon Lane Invites Job Seekers To Explore Opportunities Across Five Local Industries - 10/22/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department. 

 

For immediate release: Oct. 22, 2026

Media Contact: [email protected]

Media Advisory

WorkSource Oregon Lane invites job seekers to explore opportunities across five local industries

 

WHO:               WorkSource Oregon Lane

WHAT:              Weeklong job fair marathon

WHEN:             Monday, Oct. 26, through Friday, Oct. 30, 2026

  • Veterans and eligible spouses: Noon to 12:30 p.m. daily
  • All job seekers: 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. daily

WHERE:          2510 Oakmont Way (south parking lot), Eugene, OR 97401

 

EUGENE, Ore. — WorkSource Oregon will host a weeklong job fair marathon at its Eugene location Oct. 26–30. Veterans and eligible spouses will receive priority of service each day from noon to 12:30 p.m. The job fair is open to all job seekers daily from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

 

Job seekers can meet local employers, explore entry-level positions, and learn about career pathways in Lane County. Each day will focus on a different industry:

  • Monday, Oct. 26: Food, leisure, and hospitality
  • Tuesday, Oct. 27: Distribution and retail
  • Wednesday, Oct. 28: Manufacturing and production
  • Thursday, Oct. 29: Government, education, and non-profit
  • Friday, Oct. 30: Health care and social services

“Whether you’re launching a new career or taking the next step in your professional journey, our job fair marathon is a great place to start,” said Jim Pfarrer, Workforce Operations director for the Oregon Employment Department. “This event gives you a real advantage — the chance to learn what local employers value, make meaningful connections, share your resume, and even explore on‑the‑spot interview opportunities. We encourage everyone to come ready to engage, ask questions, collect contacts, and confidently show employers what you bring to the table.”

 

The event is free and open to the public. Job seekers are encouraged to register in advance. Members of the media are welcome to attend.

 

For more information, contact WorkSource Oregon Lane at 541-686-7601.

 

Job seekers can also visit QualityInfo.org to explore skills, wages, and career pathways for in-demand occupations and industries in Oregon.

 

The Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon partner with businesses and employers across the state to help connect them with qualified workers. Employers interested in collaborating on a hiring event or learning more about WorkSource Oregon employer services can contact [email protected].

 

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

 

Need help?

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected]. 

 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]. 

 

###

 

 

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 5.0% In September (Photo) - 10/14/26

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 14, 2026

Contact Information: 

Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist, (971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 5.0% in September

Oregon’s unemployment rate was little changed at 5.0% in September and 5.1% in August. It has held to a tight range between 5.0% and 5.3% for the past 19 months, since March 2025 when it was 5.0%. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in September and 4.1% in August.

 

In September, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 5,800 jobs, following a revised gain of 2,600 jobs in August. September’s gains were largest in construction (+2,000 jobs); health care and social assistance (+1,700); and leisure and hospitality (+1,300). Losses were largest in retail trade (-1,500 jobs).

 

In the past 12 months, payroll employment rose by 2,600 jobs, or 0.1%. Health care and social assistance continued its rapid growth during the past four years by adding 12,100 jobs, or 3.8%, in the past 12 months. Other services (+1,600 jobs, or 2.4%) and private education (+1,300, or 3.6%) were the other major industries that added the most jobs since September 2025. Manufacturing (-4,300 jobs, or -2.4%) cut the most jobs in that time, followed by government (-4,000 jobs, or -1.3%).

 

Construction employment drifted upward during April through August, then jumped higher by 2,000 jobs in September. In the past 12 months, each of the three component industries expanded: construction of buildings (+900 jobs); specialty trade contractors (+500); and heavy and civil engineering construction (+100).

 

Several industries rebounded over the most recent two months. Government added 1,300 jobs since July, following losses in prior months. Nonetheless, it has cut 4,000 jobs in the past 12 months. Manufacturing added 1,700 jobs since July, partially reversing steady declines during the past three years. Leisure and hospitality's September gain reversed losses in June and July.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the September county and metropolitan area unemployment and jobs data on Tuesday, Oct. 20, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for October on Wednesday, Nov. 18. 

About Workforce and Economic Research

The Workforce and Economic Research Division of the Oregon Employment Department develops and distributes quality economic and workforce information to help Oregonians make informed decisions and support a thriving economy. Staff collect data from state and federal records and surveys; analyze the available information; and share insights with the public in a variety of ways, including regular reports, publications, and the website, QualityInfo.org.

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected].

 

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected].

###

Attached Media Files: employment in Oregon -- September 2026 -- press release.pdf,

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 5.0% In September (Photo) - 10/14/26

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 14, 2026

Contact Information: 

Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist, (971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 5.0% in September

Oregon’s unemployment rate was little changed at 5.0% in September and 5.1% in August. It has held to a tight range between 5.0% and 5.3% for the past 19 months, since March 2025 when it was 5.0%. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in September and 4.1% in August.

 

In September, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 5,800 jobs, following a revised gain of 2,600 jobs in August. September’s gains were largest in construction (+2,000 jobs); health care and social assistance (+1,700); and leisure and hospitality (+1,300). Losses were largest in retail trade (-1,500 jobs).

 

In the past 12 months, payroll employment rose by 2,600 jobs, or 0.1%. Health care and social assistance continued its rapid growth during the past four years by adding 12,100 jobs, or 3.8%, in the past 12 months. Other services (+1,600 jobs, or 2.4%) and private education (+1,300, or 3.6%) were the other major industries that added the most jobs since September 2025. Manufacturing (-4,300 jobs, or -2.4%) cut the most jobs in that time, followed by government (-4,000 jobs, or -1.3%).

 

Construction employment drifted upward during April through August, then jumped higher by 2,000 jobs in September. In the past 12 months, each of the three component industries expanded: construction of buildings (+900 jobs); specialty trade contractors (+500); and heavy and civil engineering construction (+100).

 

Several industries rebounded over the most recent two months. Government added 1,300 jobs since July, following losses in prior months. Nonetheless, it has cut 4,000 jobs in the past 12 months. Manufacturing added 1,700 jobs since July, partially reversing steady declines during the past three years. Leisure and hospitality's September gain reversed losses in June and July.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the September county and metropolitan area unemployment and jobs data on Tuesday, Oct. 20, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for October on Wednesday, Nov. 18. 

About Workforce and Economic Research

The Workforce and Economic Research Division of the Oregon Employment Department develops and distributes quality economic and workforce information to help Oregonians make informed decisions and support a thriving economy. Staff collect data from state and federal records and surveys; analyze the available information; and share insights with the public in a variety of ways, including regular reports, publications, and the website, QualityInfo.org.

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to [email protected].

 

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected].

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Attached Media Files: employment in Oregon -- September 2026 -- press release.pdf,