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News Release

OED Press Release: Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was Unchanged At 5.2% In May (Photo) - 06/17/26

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 17, 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 Unchanged at 5.2% in May

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in each of the first five months of 2026. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.3% in March, April, and May.

 

In May, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 3,600 jobs, following a gain of 600 jobs, as revised, in April. May’s gains were largest in other services (+2,000 jobs) and professional and business services (+1,800). Losses were largest in manufacturing (-1,100 jobs).

 

Although nonfarm payroll employment rose by a total of 4,200 jobs during April and May, this broad measure of Oregon’s employment was still 9,100 jobs, or 0.5%, below its May 2025 level. Over the past 12 months, nine of the major industries have cut jobs, while only five industries have added jobs. At 1,977,100, Oregon nonfarm payroll employment has been slightly below two million jobs for the past four years and is down 20,900 jobs from its peak of 1,998,000 in September 2024.

 

The rapid expansion during the prior three years within health care and social assistance is slowing. Since October 2025, growth appears to have leveled off in ambulatory health care services and in hospitals. However, the other two industries within the broader sector continued their rapid expansion. Since October, nursing and residential care facilities added 1,500 jobs, while social assistance added 4,600.

 

Manufacturing employment dropped 1,100 jobs in May, following steep losses over the prior three years. In the past 12 months, durable goods manufacturing cut 5,900 jobs, or 4.7%, while nondurable goods manufacturing cut 2,200 jobs, or 4.0%.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the May county and metropolitan area unemployment and jobs data on Tuesday, June 23, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for June on Wednesday, July 15. 

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

 

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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Attached Media Files: employment_in_Oregon_May_2026_press_release.pdf,

OED Press Release: Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was Unchanged At 5.2% In May (Photo) - 06/17/26

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 17, 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 Unchanged at 5.2% in May

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in each of the first five months of 2026. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.3% in March, April, and May.

 

In May, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 3,600 jobs, following a gain of 600 jobs, as revised, in April. May’s gains were largest in other services (+2,000 jobs) and professional and business services (+1,800). Losses were largest in manufacturing (-1,100 jobs).

 

Although nonfarm payroll employment rose by a total of 4,200 jobs during April and May, this broad measure of Oregon’s employment was still 9,100 jobs, or 0.5%, below its May 2025 level. Over the past 12 months, nine of the major industries have cut jobs, while only five industries have added jobs. At 1,977,100, Oregon nonfarm payroll employment has been slightly below two million jobs for the past four years and is down 20,900 jobs from its peak of 1,998,000 in September 2024.

 

The rapid expansion during the prior three years within health care and social assistance is slowing. Since October 2025, growth appears to have leveled off in ambulatory health care services and in hospitals. However, the other two industries within the broader sector continued their rapid expansion. Since October, nursing and residential care facilities added 1,500 jobs, while social assistance added 4,600.

 

Manufacturing employment dropped 1,100 jobs in May, following steep losses over the prior three years. In the past 12 months, durable goods manufacturing cut 5,900 jobs, or 4.7%, while nondurable goods manufacturing cut 2,200 jobs, or 4.0%.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the May county and metropolitan area unemployment and jobs data on Tuesday, June 23, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for June on Wednesday, July 15. 

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

 

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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Attached Media Files: employment_in_Oregon_May_2026_press_release.pdf,

OED Press Release: WorkSource Oregon Hosts Veterans’ Employment And Resource Fairs In Hermiston And La Grande - 06/16/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon 

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department.  

 

For immediate release: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 

Media Contact: communications@employ.oregon.gov 

 

WorkSource Oregon hosts Veterans’ employment and resource fairs in Hermiston and La Grande 

Veterans, service members, and military families encouraged to attend 

 

Hermiston, Ore. — WorkSource Oregon invites Veterans, National Guard service members, and military spouses and families to attend the Veteran, Service Member, and Family Employment and Resource Fair in Hermiston on Tuesday, June 23, and in La Grande on Wednesday, June 24. The fairs will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day, and there is no cost to attend. Registration is recommended. 

 

Participants can take part in a variety of activities in a welcoming, family-friendly environment: 

 

  • Meet with local employers who are ready to hire qualified Veterans, service members, and their family members. 

  • Explore education, training, and career options with support from experienced professionals.  

  • Learn more about health care, housing, and crisis and emergency services.   

  • Speak with staff from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs about resources for Veterans and their families. 

  • Enjoy food from local businesses, haircuts, and more — at no cost.  

 

WorkSource Oregon is partnering with community organizations and agencies — including the Pacific Northwest Veterans’ Alliance, Oregon National Guard, and High Timber Dreams — to expand this event, now in its second year, across two days in two locations.  

 

“This year, we are bringing even more resources to Veterans and service members in Eastern Oregon to help them secure long-term employment and stable housing,” said Stephanie Hansen, Veteran employment representative with WorkSource Oregon. “Our rural communities and partners have stepped up once again, accepting the call to support those who have served and working together to build a meaningful event for our heroes.” 

 

Eligible Veterans can access expungement screening services during the La Grande fair on June 24. Space is limited, and advanced screening is required. Interested Veterans should contact Hansen at 541-975-0851. 

 

“When we support Veterans, service members, and their families, we’re doing more than offering services — we’re opening doors to meaningful employment and long-term economic stability,” said Jim Pfarrer, director of the Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division. “Strong communities recognize the value Veterans bring to the workforce and work together to ensure every job seeker has a clear path to opportunity.” 

 

The Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon are proud to partner with businesses and employers across the state to connect them with qualified workers. If you are interested in collaborating on a hiring event or learning more about our resources for employers, please contact EmployerServices@oregon.gov. 

Event Details 

Hermiston location:  
Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2026 
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
Location: Army National Guard Recruiting Office, 900 SE Columbia Drive, Hermiston, OR 97838 

Registration: https://forms.office.com/g/04psmGkQA9 

 

La Grande location:  
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
Location: Blue Mountain Conference Center, 404 12th Street, La Grande, OR 97850 

Registration: https://forms.office.com/g/04psmGkQA9 

 

Contact: Stephanie Hansen, Veteran Employment Representative, WorkSource Oregon 
Email: Stephanie.M.Hansen@employ.oregon.gov 
Phone: 541-975-0851 

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.   

​​​Stevens Amendment Acknowledgement 

The Jobs for Veterans’ State Grant (JVSG) is 100% federally funded through the U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (USDOL-VETS). This grant is a part of an award grant totaling $4,938,663, with 0% financed from non-governmental sources. 

 

The Jobs for Veterans' State Grant provides federal funding to conduct outreach to the business community and engage in advocacy efforts to increase employment opportunities for Veterans. The grant also provides funding for individualized career and training-related services to Veterans and eligible persons with significant barriers to employment. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

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 EmployerServices@oregon.gov.  

 

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 EmployerServices@oregon.gov.  

 

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OED Press Release: WorkSource Oregon Hosts Veterans’ Employment And Resource Fairs In Hermiston And La Grande - 06/16/26

logo: WorkSource Oregon 

 

Logo: State of Oregon Employment Department.  

 

For immediate release: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 

Media Contact: communications@employ.oregon.gov 

 

WorkSource Oregon hosts Veterans’ employment and resource fairs in Hermiston and La Grande 

Veterans, service members, and military families encouraged to attend 

 

Hermiston, Ore. — WorkSource Oregon invites Veterans, National Guard service members, and military spouses and families to attend the Veteran, Service Member, and Family Employment and Resource Fair in Hermiston on Tuesday, June 23, and in La Grande on Wednesday, June 24. The fairs will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day, and there is no cost to attend. Registration is recommended. 

 

Participants can take part in a variety of activities in a welcoming, family-friendly environment: 

 

  • Meet with local employers who are ready to hire qualified Veterans, service members, and their family members. 

  • Explore education, training, and career options with support from experienced professionals.  

  • Learn more about health care, housing, and crisis and emergency services.   

  • Speak with staff from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs about resources for Veterans and their families. 

  • Enjoy food from local businesses, haircuts, and more — at no cost.  

 

WorkSource Oregon is partnering with community organizations and agencies — including the Pacific Northwest Veterans’ Alliance, Oregon National Guard, and High Timber Dreams — to expand this event, now in its second year, across two days in two locations.  

 

“This year, we are bringing even more resources to Veterans and service members in Eastern Oregon to help them secure long-term employment and stable housing,” said Stephanie Hansen, Veteran employment representative with WorkSource Oregon. “Our rural communities and partners have stepped up once again, accepting the call to support those who have served and working together to build a meaningful event for our heroes.” 

 

Eligible Veterans can access expungement screening services during the La Grande fair on June 24. Space is limited, and advanced screening is required. Interested Veterans should contact Hansen at 541-975-0851. 

 

“When we support Veterans, service members, and their families, we’re doing more than offering services — we’re opening doors to meaningful employment and long-term economic stability,” said Jim Pfarrer, director of the Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division. “Strong communities recognize the value Veterans bring to the workforce and work together to ensure every job seeker has a clear path to opportunity.” 

 

The Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon are proud to partner with businesses and employers across the state to connect them with qualified workers. If you are interested in collaborating on a hiring event or learning more about our resources for employers, please contact EmployerServices@oregon.gov. 

Event Details 

Hermiston location:  
Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2026 
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
Location: Army National Guard Recruiting Office, 900 SE Columbia Drive, Hermiston, OR 97838 

Registration: https://forms.office.com/g/04psmGkQA9 

 

La Grande location:  
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
Location: Blue Mountain Conference Center, 404 12th Street, La Grande, OR 97850 

Registration: https://forms.office.com/g/04psmGkQA9 

 

Contact: Stephanie Hansen, Veteran Employment Representative, WorkSource Oregon 
Email: Stephanie.M.Hansen@employ.oregon.gov 
Phone: 541-975-0851 

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.   

​​​Stevens Amendment Acknowledgement 

The Jobs for Veterans’ State Grant (JVSG) is 100% federally funded through the U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (USDOL-VETS). This grant is a part of an award grant totaling $4,938,663, with 0% financed from non-governmental sources. 

 

The Jobs for Veterans' State Grant provides federal funding to conduct outreach to the business community and engage in advocacy efforts to increase employment opportunities for Veterans. The grant also provides funding for individualized career and training-related services to Veterans and eligible persons with significant barriers to employment. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

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 EmployerServices@oregon.gov.  

 

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 EmployerServices@oregon.gov.  

 

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Paid Leave Oregon Celebrates Pride, Supports Families Of Every Kind - 06/09/26

 

For Immediate Release: June 9, 2026
Media Contact:  Communications@employ.oregon.gov;

Paid Leave Oregon celebrates Pride, supports families of every kind

Inclusive definition of family helps Oregonians care for the people who are family to them

 

June 9, 2026 (Salem, Ore.) — In recognition of Pride Month, Paid Leave Oregon is reminding Oregonians that paid leave is for families of every kind, including LGBTQ+ families, chosen families, blended families, and other caregiving relationships.

 

When the Oregon Legislature created Paid Leave Oregon in 2019, it defined a family member to include a spouse or domestic partner, child, parent, sibling or stepsibling, grandparent, grandchild, or anyone else related by blood or affinity whose close association with the worker is equivalent to a family relationship.

 

“Paid Leave Oregon was built to support the way people actually care for one another,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, director of the Oregon Employment Department. “During Pride Month, we are proud to recognize that family also means the people who show up for us when we need care the most.”

 

For many LGBTQ+ Oregonians, chosen family can be an essential source of care and support. A narrow family definition can leave out the person who is actually there day to day, whether that person is a close friend, a longtime partner, a trusted caregiver, or someone else with a family-like bond.

 

“Chosen family is family,” said Juan Serratos, director of Paid Leave Oregon. “Paid Leave Oregon’s definition of family member helps make sure the program works for real people in real caregiving situations. When someone has a serious health condition, the person caring for them should be able to take leave because of the relationship they have, even when that relationship is not defined by blood, marriage, or the law.”

 

Paid Leave Oregon uses clear standards to determine the relationship of a parent or caregiver, even with the broad definition set by law. When someone applies to care for a person who is connected to them like family, the program may consider information showing a significant personal bond, such as shared financial responsibility, a shared lease or property, joint bills, emergency contact designation, a history of providing care, or other facts that show the relationship functions like family. No single factor is required. The program looks at the relationship as a whole.

 

Oregon has been a leader in recognizing that paid leave programs should reflect the way people actually build and rely on family. California is now moving in a similar direction: In 2025, the state enacted Senate Bill 590, which will expand its paid family leave program to include care for a “designated person” beginning July 1, 2028.

 

“Oregon does not ask families to be one shape,” Serratos said. “Paid Leave is here to support people when they need care the most, and that means recognizing the people who provide that care, comfort, and support.”

 

Workers can learn more about Paid Leave Oregon, eligibility, and how to apply at paidleave.oregon.gov.

About Paid Leave Oregon

Paid Leave Oregon provides temporary, paid time away from work so employees can have financial security when experiencing significant life events. Covered events include welcoming a new child, recovering from a serious health condition, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or addressing issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. Paid leave benefits help Oregonians stay connected to their jobs and maintain financial stability during these major personal events. Learn more at paidleave.oregon.gov.

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

 

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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Paid Leave Oregon Celebrates Pride, Supports Families Of Every Kind - 06/09/26

 

For Immediate Release: June 9, 2026
Media Contact:  Communications@employ.oregon.gov;

Paid Leave Oregon celebrates Pride, supports families of every kind

Inclusive definition of family helps Oregonians care for the people who are family to them

 

June 9, 2026 (Salem, Ore.) — In recognition of Pride Month, Paid Leave Oregon is reminding Oregonians that paid leave is for families of every kind, including LGBTQ+ families, chosen families, blended families, and other caregiving relationships.

 

When the Oregon Legislature created Paid Leave Oregon in 2019, it defined a family member to include a spouse or domestic partner, child, parent, sibling or stepsibling, grandparent, grandchild, or anyone else related by blood or affinity whose close association with the worker is equivalent to a family relationship.

 

“Paid Leave Oregon was built to support the way people actually care for one another,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, director of the Oregon Employment Department. “During Pride Month, we are proud to recognize that family also means the people who show up for us when we need care the most.”

 

For many LGBTQ+ Oregonians, chosen family can be an essential source of care and support. A narrow family definition can leave out the person who is actually there day to day, whether that person is a close friend, a longtime partner, a trusted caregiver, or someone else with a family-like bond.

 

“Chosen family is family,” said Juan Serratos, director of Paid Leave Oregon. “Paid Leave Oregon’s definition of family member helps make sure the program works for real people in real caregiving situations. When someone has a serious health condition, the person caring for them should be able to take leave because of the relationship they have, even when that relationship is not defined by blood, marriage, or the law.”

 

Paid Leave Oregon uses clear standards to determine the relationship of a parent or caregiver, even with the broad definition set by law. When someone applies to care for a person who is connected to them like family, the program may consider information showing a significant personal bond, such as shared financial responsibility, a shared lease or property, joint bills, emergency contact designation, a history of providing care, or other facts that show the relationship functions like family. No single factor is required. The program looks at the relationship as a whole.

 

Oregon has been a leader in recognizing that paid leave programs should reflect the way people actually build and rely on family. California is now moving in a similar direction: In 2025, the state enacted Senate Bill 590, which will expand its paid family leave program to include care for a “designated person” beginning July 1, 2028.

 

“Oregon does not ask families to be one shape,” Serratos said. “Paid Leave is here to support people when they need care the most, and that means recognizing the people who provide that care, comfort, and support.”

 

Workers can learn more about Paid Leave Oregon, eligibility, and how to apply at paidleave.oregon.gov.

About Paid Leave Oregon

Paid Leave Oregon provides temporary, paid time away from work so employees can have financial security when experiencing significant life events. Covered events include welcoming a new child, recovering from a serious health condition, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or addressing issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. Paid leave benefits help Oregonians stay connected to their jobs and maintain financial stability during these major personal events. Learn more at paidleave.oregon.gov.

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

 

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 communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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