Employment in Fort Collins: A Comprehensive Guide

Fort Collins, Colorado, is a thriving city with a vibrant economy and a diverse job market. As of May 2023, the city's unemployment rate was 2.4%, significantly lower than the national average of 3.6% (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This low unemployment rate indicates a strong demand for workers in various industries.

Key Industries in Fort Collins

Fort Collins is home to several major industries, including:

• Education and Healthcare: Colorado State University (CSU) is the city's largest employer, with over 13,000 employees. The city is also home to several hospitals and healthcare providers, including UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital and Banner Fort Collins Medical Center.
• Technology and Innovation: Fort Collins is a hub for technology and innovation, with companies such as Intel, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Innosphere Ventures.
• Agriculture and Food Processing: Fort Collins is located in the heart of Colorado's agricultural region and is home to several food processing companies, including JBS USA and Cargill.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for Fort Collins is positive, with projected growth in several industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following occupations are expected to have the highest growth rates in Fort Collins between 2021 and 2031:

• Registered Nurses
• Computer and Information Systems Managers
• Software Developers
• High School Teachers
• Human Resources Managers

Salary and Benefits

Salaries in Fort Collins are competitive with national averages. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for all occupations in Fort Collins is $68,335. However, salaries vary depending on industry, experience, and education level.

Fort Collins employers typically offer comprehensive benefits packages that may include:

• Health and dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid sick leave
• Retirement savings plans
• Tuition reimbursement

Tips for Finding a Job in Fort Collins

Finding a job in Fort Collins requires a proactive approach. Here are a few tips:

• Network: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and reach out to your personal and professional contacts.
• Use Job Boards: Utilize online job boards such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor to search for job openings.
• Contact Employers Directly: Reach out to potential employers directly to inquire about job openings. Even if they don't have any openings listed, they may be able to connect you with someone who does.
• Utilize CSU Career Services: If you are a CSU student or alumnus, take advantage of the university's Career Services department. They can provide resume review, job search assistance, and networking opportunities.
• Consider Internships or Apprenticeships: Gain valuable experience and build your network through internships or apprenticeships. These programs can also lead to full-time job offers.

Additional Resources

• Fort Collins Chamber of Commerce
• Colorado State University Career Services
• Fort Collins Job Market

Tables

Table 1: Major Employers in Fort Collins

Table 2: Projected Growth Rates for Occupations in Fort Collins

Table 3: Average Annual Salaries for Occupations in Fort Collins