Guide to Hiring in

Energy Sector

The energy sector, particularly oil and natural gas, has been a cornerstone of Oklahoma's economy. Companies like Devon Energy and Chesapeake Energy are major employers, offering numerous opportunities in engineering, geology, and field operations. The state's commitment to renewable energy is also growing, with wind power becoming an increasingly significant player.

‍

Aerospace and Defense

Oklahoma is home to a robust aerospace industry, anchored by Tinker Air Force Base, American Airlines' Maintenance & Engineering Center, and numerous other aerospace companies. This sector provides jobs ranging from aviation mechanics to aerospace engineers, contributing significantly to the state's employment and economic output.

‍

Agriculture and Biosciences

Agriculture remains vital, with Oklahoma producing beef, wheat, and poultry. The state's bioscience industry, supported by institutions like the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, is also expanding, offering roles in research, development, and agritech.

‍

Information Technology

Oklahoma's IT sector is growing rapidly, with a focus on software development, cybersecurity, and data management. Tech companies and startups in cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City are creating a range of job opportunities in this high-demand field.

Small businesses are the backbone of Oklahoma's economy. They account for a significant portion of job creation and innovation within the state. From local restaurants and retail stores to tech startups and manufacturing firms, small businesses offer diverse employment opportunities and contribute to the state's economic resilience. The support from local chambers of commerce and the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center helps these enterprises thrive, creating a healthy job market.

• Tech-Driven Growth: With increasing investment in technology infrastructure and education, the demand for skilled IT professionals will continue to rise.
• Healthcare Expansion: As the population grows and ages, the healthcare sector is expected to see significant job growth, especially in nursing, medical research, and telehealth services.
• Sustainable Energy: The push towards renewable energy sources will create new jobs in wind and solar power, engineering, and environmental sciences.
• Remote Work: The shift towards remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, is likely to continue, offering more flexible job opportunities across various sectors.

• Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC): Provides job listings, unemployment services, and workforce development resources.
• Oklahoma Works: A network of partnerships offering job matching, career guidance, and training programs.
• Local Chambers of Commerce: Organizations like the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and Tulsa Regional Chamber offer networking, job fairs, and business resources.
• Online Job Portals: Websites such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor list numerous job opportunities across the state.

Oklahoma's employment law has distinct features compared to other states, primarily due to its "at-will" employment doctrine, which allows employers to terminate employees for any reason, provided it is not illegal, such as discrimination or retaliation. Unlike some states, Oklahoma does not have a state-mandated minimum wage higher than the federal rate, adhering strictly to federal guidelines.

The state also has unique provisions for workers' compensation, emphasizing employer obligations to provide medical benefits and wage replacement for injured workers. Additionally, Oklahoma’s labor laws include specific regulations regarding child labor, break periods, and right-to-work laws, which prohibit mandatory union membership as a condition of employment. These elements collectively shape a distinctive employment landscape that balances employer flexibility with worker protections.