08. Hire Employees
When hiring employees in Portland, Oregon, it's crucial for small business owners to understand the legal distinctions between employees and independent contractors, as well as the general employment requirements and resources for employers. Consulting with attorneys and connecting with regulatory agencies can help you better understand the legal requirements.
Guides
Learn more about hiring independent contractors and its difference from employees.
Explore the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) training calendar and web guide for confidential support.
Get Assistance
Workforce Navigator Job Submission Form: Submit your job description and our community workforce navigators will connect you with job seekers.
PDX Youth@Work & Summerworks is a paid work experience program helping connect young people ageing 16 – 24 with meaningful employment opportunities at regional businesses.
WorkSource Oregon Business Services: A one-stop resource for businesses. All services are at no cost to you.
State of Oregon Employment Department: See what resources and information are available for small businesses.
Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace: Learn about health coverage options for small businesses and employees.
Paid Leave Oregon: Learn how paid leave works for small employers. There are tools and resources so you can better understand your role and share information about Paid Leave Oregon with your employees. Small employers, with fewer than 25 employees, may be eligible for a Paid Leave Oregon - Assistance Grant to hire a temporary replacement employee or to help with significant wage‑related costs — like overtime or training — while your permanent employee is on leave.
Oregon Save: All Oregon employers are required by law to facilitate OregonSaves if they don’t offer a retirement plan for their employees. Employers who provide a qualified retirement plan or have no W2 employees should certify their exemption from the program using their provided Access Code.