#seattle

The Seattle area is experiencing a significant change in its job market, moving away from its tech dominance. Healthcare and frontline services are now driving job growth, while tech and science positions have seen a decline. This restructuring is impacting the regional labor force, with some tech workers seeking opportunities in other fields. The shift is attributed to various factors, including hiring in essential services and a decrease in tech-specific roles. Experts emphasize the need for awareness regarding these widespread economic changes.

https://www.kuow.org/economy/2026-07-22/seattle-area-hiring-is-undergoing-a-drastic-change

Qualtrics has initiated job cuts across its global operations following its recent acquisition of Press Ganey Forsta. The company cited duplication of roles between the two independently built organizations as the reason for the reductions. These layoffs are impacting employees at its dual headquarters in Seattle and Provo, Utah, as well as international offices. While the exact number of affected employees has not been disclosed, a WARN notice indicates at least 50 jobs were cut at the Seattle headquarters. CEO Jason Maynard stated these decisions were necessary to function as a single, unified team.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/qualtrics-cuts-jobs-in-seattle-utah-and-overseas-as-it-absorbs-6-75b-acquisition/

A new report indicates Seattle's housing market is experiencing a significant slowdown. This decline is attributed to widespread layoffs within the tech industry, creating buyer uncertainty. Pending home sales have dropped sharply, reflecting a cautious approach from potential homeowners. Despite a slight price decrease, the median home price remains very high. The tech sector's instability is a primary driver of this market sluggishness.

Seattle, Washington

https://seattlered.com/housing/seattle-area-housing-market-slows-as-tech-layoffs-create-uncertainty-report/4119798

Starbucks has closed another downtown Seattle location. This closure follows a series of layoffs and store shutdowns across Washington state. The company cited a need to improve the physical environment and financial performance of its stores. These actions are part of a broader strategy to focus on core business operations. The company is also relocating corporate jobs to a new office in Nashville.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/starbucks-shutters-another-seattle-store-closures-layoffs-mount/B2GEPRHF2BFLJKCTRFEHTH2NIQ/?outputType=amp

Starbucks has closed another downtown Seattle location, marking a continuation of recent store closures and layoffs. The company has been strategically reducing its footprint, citing a need to align store environments with customer and partner expectations and to improve financial performance. These closures have been accompanied by significant workforce reductions across various levels of the organization. The company is also shifting some corporate operations to a new office in Nashville. These moves have drawn criticism from former CEO Howard Schultz regarding the business climate in Seattle.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/starbucks-shutters-another-seattle-store-closures-layoffs-mount/B2GEPRHF2BFLJKCTRFEHTH2NIQ/

Salesforce is implementing another round of job cuts in Washington state. The enterprise software company is eliminating 59 positions across various tech roles. These layoffs affect employees in both Seattle and Bellevue. This marks the third set of reductions for Salesforce this year. The company acquired Tableau in 2019.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/salesforce-cutting-59-jobs-across-seattle-and-bellevue-offices/

Halo Studios has recently undergone layoffs following the release of its latest title, Halo: Campaign Evolved. Several employees have publicly announced their departures on LinkedIn, indicating a significant reduction in staff. These announcements come shortly after the game's launch, which marked the franchise's debut on a Sony PlayStation platform. The gaming industry is currently experiencing a challenging job market, contributing to these workforce adjustments. The studio has not yet released an official statement regarding the exact number of affected employees.

Seattle, Washington

https://insider-gaming.com/halo-studios-hit-by-layoffs-after-campaign-evolved-launch/

The coffee giant has again increased its annual sales and profit projections, signaling a strong recovery. CEO Brian Niccol's strategic initiatives have successfully revitalized customer demand for the company. This positive performance has led to a notable increase in the company's stock value. Starbucks is now anticipating higher global same-store sales growth and improved earnings per share. The company's focus remains on operational improvements and cost management.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.klsescreener.com/v2/news/view/1764571/starbucks-raises-annual-forecasts-again-as-turnaround-takes-root

Amazon has implemented further targeted layoffs within its artificial general intelligence division. The company confirmed the job cuts but did not specify the number of employees affected. This move comes as Amazon continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence development. The affected unit focuses on AI models, silicon, and quantum computing. Amazon has been undergoing a series of workforce reductions following a period of significant hiring.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/22/amazon-lays-off-some-employees-in-its-agi-unit.html

A little more detail on impact in Seattle,WA market; 54 employees https://www.seattletimes.com/business/verizon-to-lay-off-54-wa-employees/

Amazon has recently implemented significant layoffs. These job cuts are occurring within a competitive and saturated employment landscape. The company's actions are contributing to a challenging environment for job seekers. This situation highlights broader trends in the technology and logistics sectors. The full impact of these reductions is still unfolding.

Seattle, Washington

https://theloadstar.com/cnbc-amazon-layoffs-take-their-toll-in-saturated-job-market/

Amazon Web Services (AWS) employees were impacted by a large layoff round in early 2026. Amazon cut 16,000 corporate jobs, affecting AWS staff in the U.S. and Canada. Despite these reductions, AWS made significant advancements in artificial intelligence. The company secured major deals with Anthropic and OpenAI, investing billions in AI infrastructure. AWS also launched numerous new AI products and partner incentives this year.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.crn.com/news/cloud/2026/top-10-aws-news-stories-of-2026-openai-layoffs-and-ai-innovation

The KCRHA will experience major funding reductions. The KCRHA budget will shrink by nearly 80%. This follows financial management issues and policy control failures. Around 30 KCRHA staff members face layoffs. Local authorities are reclaiming $160 million in homeless services contracts.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/regional-homelessness-authority-will-have-budget-slashed-by-75-layoffs-after-financial-issues/EWCZYKN7X5F5JLTQXMTBWS756A/

Seattle-based customer data startup Amperity conducted layoffs this week. The company confirmed the workforce reduction was due to an AI-driven transformation. Amperity did not specify the exact number of affected employees. This shift changes where the company is investing and the team's structure. The layoffs follow co-founders recently taking on co-CEO roles to focus on AI opportunities.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/amperity-hit-with-layoffs-as-ai-changes-the-shape-of-the-customer-data-startup-and-how-it-operates/

First Student Inc. will lay off 111 employees in Seattle. The company filed a WARN notice regarding these job cuts. Approximately 60% of its Lake City Way operations will cease. The affected workers include 107 bus drivers and 3 technicians. Layoffs are scheduled to begin on August 17.

Seattle, Washington

https://komonews.com/news/local/seattle-schools-bus-drivers-first-student-lays-off-over-100-bus-drivers-lake-city-way-bus-technician-employee-operations-summer-school

Seattle Public Schools faces an $87 million budget shortfall. Superintendent Ben Shuldiner stated that "everything is on the table" to address the deficit. Potential measures include layoffs and school closures. The district plans to reorganize its central office and not fill vacancies. Declining student enrollment also contributes to the financial challenges.

Seattle

https://komonews.com/news/local/seattle-public-schools-last-day-class-sps-superintendent-ben-shuldiner-87m-budget-gap-shortfall-safety-student-enrollment-drop-possible-layoffs

Catering company Lavish Roots issued a statement regarding a WARN filing. The filing affected 263 employees across four facilities. Lavish Roots clarified it is not closing its doors. The action stems from a major client transitioning to a global vendor. The company plans to expand its services and footprint in the Seattle area.

Burien, Washington

https://b-townblog.com/b-town-biz-burien-based-lavish-roots-says-it-is-expanding-not-closing-despite-warn-filing-affecting-263-workers/

A superyacht linked to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg arrived in Seattle. The vessel, named "Launchpad," drew crowds in South Lake Union. Its arrival followed Meta's announcement of 1,400 layoffs in Washington state. Some observers criticized the yacht's presence during this period. Others viewed the large vessel as a tourist attraction.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/zuckerberg-superyacht-draws-crowds-seattle-meta-layoffs/281-efc3e24b-894e-436d-a303-f821313508df

Meta announced 1,395 layoffs in the Seattle area on May 20. These cuts affect approximately 20% of the company's Washington workforce. The layoffs are part of Meta's strategy to offset significant AI investments. Affected employees include technical writers, data scientists, and engineers. Their last day of employment is expected to be July 22, 2026.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/1400-seattle-meta-jobs-layoffs

Starbucks announced 252 corporate job cuts in Seattle. These layoffs impact vice presidents, directors, and senior managers. The company stated cuts will sharpen focus and lower costs. Separations are expected from July 17 through February 1, 2027. Starbucks is also closing some regional support offices.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/starbucks-layoffs-impact-252-jobs-at-seattle-support-center-including-vps-and-other-senior-roles/

Starbucks announced another round of corporate layoffs. The company will cut 300 U.S. jobs. It also plans to shutter some regional support offices. These actions are part of its ongoing turnaround strategy. The moves will result in $400 million in restructuring charges.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/15/starbucks-to-lay-off-300-us-employees-close-some-regional-offices.html

Washington state recorded the second-highest number of tech worker layoffs nationally. Over 11,000 tech employees lost jobs between May 2025 and April 2026. This data comes from Revelio Labs research shared with KUOW. Amazon, Oracle, and Meta were major contributors to these job cuts. A slowdown in tech hiring is also a significant trend.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kuow.org/stories/washington-state-tech-layoffs-are-second-highest-in-the-country

Starbucks is laying off 61 corporate tech workers in Seattle. This action results from a technology department reorganization. Affected roles include project managers and systems administrators. The layoffs are scheduled to begin on June 20. All impacted employees will be separated by August 28.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.seattletimes.com/business/starbucks/starbucks-lays-off-61-tech-workers-in-seattle/

Starbucks laid off today (not relocated to Nashville) 61 tech jobs in their Tech Support Center. AI continues to claim the tech industry in the greater Seattle area. Even less places for the laid off Seattle Tech Support folks to go.

Starbucks is reducing tech positions following a new CTO's arrival. The company aims to move faster and sharpen focus. Several employees posted about the job reductions. The number of affected staff remains unspecified. This is part of a wider company turnaround.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/starbucks-cuts-tech-jobs-as-new-cto-reshapes-organization/

Starbucks |

Astellas Pharma is closing its Universal Cells office. This office is located in Seattle. The closure will result in some position relocations. These positions will move to South San Francisco. Other positions will move to Westborough, Massachusetts.

https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2026/04/13/astellas-pharma-universal-cells-stem-biotech.html

Marc James is no longer with iHeartMedia's KJR Sports Radio. His departure is part of ongoing iHeartMedia layoffs. These layoffs affect various departments nationwide. KJR has updated its on-air schedule following James' exit. James joined the Seattle station in February 2025.

Seattle, Washington

https://barrettmedia.com/2026/04/15/marc-james-departs-kjr-as-iheartmedia-continues-ongoing-layoffs/

Oracle initiated layoffs impacting remote workers in the Seattle area. A total of 491 employees in Washington state operations are affected. The company announced these job cuts on April 10, 2026. Affected employees will see their jobs end on June 1. Oracle cited its AI infrastructure and cloud strategy as factors.

Seattle, Washington

https://nationaltoday.com/us/wa/seattle/news/2026/04/10/oracle-layoffs-hit-remote-workers-in-seattle/

Seattle Met magazine is under new ownership. Hour Media acquired its parent company, SagaCity Media. SagaCity Media sold its publications for $1.6 million in March. The company had faced financial difficulties and entered receivership. Layoffs have started at Seattle Met, affecting several editorial staff.

Seattle, Washington

https://mynorthwest.com/local/seattle-met-magazine-layoffs/4225310

Oracle is laying off 491 employees in Washington state. These cuts affect workers in Seattle offices and remote staff. The layoffs take effect on June 1. This reduction is part of broader company job cuts. AI-driven efficiencies and funding new data centers contribute to the decision.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/oracle-cuts-491-jobs-in-washington-state-as-it-embraces-ai-led-engineering/

Meta announced layoffs impacting 168 employees in Washington state. These reductions are part of a broader workforce cut across the U.S. The affected roles include engineering, product management, and recruiting positions. Many impacted jobs were within the Reality Labs division. The layoffs are scheduled to commence on May 8.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/latest-meta-layoffs-target-168-employees-in-washington-state/

That's a lot of sheep for a first round lay-off with more to come

Polyarc Games announced company-wide layoffs. The VR developer could not secure funding. This followed the cancellation of a major project. The number of affected workers was not disclosed. Polyarc is known for its adventure-puzzle game Moss.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.gamesindustry.biz/vr-developer-polyarc-games-facing-layoffs-unspecified-number-of-employees-affected

The only benefit is if we move we will finally be able to afford a house. Let’s be honest allot of us at corporate are renting and cannot afford Seattle. We have a choice either move or get laid off.

“According to The Wall Street Journal, the roles moving to Nashville will include direct and indirect sourcing teams, with the company expecting to move additional jobs to Tennessee down the line.”

I am going to move if I get the offer. What about everyone else?

The 5th Avenue Theatre announced layoffs and program pauses. Approximately 14 staff positions will be eliminated. The theater faces a $7.5 million deficit from the pandemic. Rising costs and declining subscriptions contributed to the shortfall. A fundraising campaign aims to address these financial challenges.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/layoffs-hit-historic-seattle-theatre-75m-deficit-forces-staff-cuts/7HEEHZI5JNDDBL3QOKBDCSEZ54/

Seattle business leaders have issued a warning. They are concerned about artificial intelligence. Technology sector layoffs are also a factor. These elements are causing an economic shift. Local leaders are observing these developments.

https://www.fox13seattle.com/video/fmc-ct0uwlxr8z2xwzvl

Seattle's tech sector is experiencing a significant slowdown. Layoffs are impacting many companies in the region. This shift affects local businesses and the broader economy. The situation is not limited to a single employer. Seattle's previous mood of constant hiring has changed.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/careersandeducation/seattle-layoffs-are-turning-into-a-bigger-local-slowdown-story/ss-AA1WTRUX?ocid=overlayclose

What do folks know?

Eddie Bauer is closing its Seattle headquarters. The outdoor apparel brand will lay off 60 employees. Its 50,000-square-foot Sodo headquarters is in Seattle. The company leased this space in 2022. This move affects the Seattle-based company's operations.

https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2026/02/09/eddie-bauer-layoffs-headquarters-closure.html

The Seattle area recently shed jobs. This marks the first job loss since the pandemic began. The region had previously added fewer than 15,000 jobs in 2024. Further details are behind a paywall. The Puget Sound Business Journal reported this development.

https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2026/02/03/area-loses-jobs-tech-industry-construction.html