Although Kitsap is noted for its economical infrastructure and lifestyle, its greatest asset is its workforce. It ranges from former navy personnel eager to stay in the area, ex-Seattle/Redmond technologists looking for more livable surroundings, or graduates of our local colleges and technology training centers ready to use their talents in manufacturing or skilled labor. Our labor pool is stable, energetic, and reliable.

2007 Labor Area Summary 

2006 Labor Area Summary

2005 Labor Market Report

Kitsap County Labor Market has Kitsap specific data. The Workforce Explorer website contains detailed workforce and wage information.

Another attractive feature of Kitsap County's available labor force is familiarity with technology. In 2000, more than 50 percent of Kitsap's households were linked to the Internet, 10 percent more than the national average. Today, Kitsap County is 100% high speed internet accessible.

Kitsap County offers employers and employees a number of work and lifestyle advantages that helps attract – and keep – a top-notch workforce. At the top of the list: short, nearly congestion-free commute times; affordable cost of living; family-friendly communities; offices and homes that overlook stunning Pacific Northwest scenery; and numerous cultural and recreational opportunities. 

Read more about what attracts skilled labor to Kitsap County in Living and Playing and Kitsap Profile.

Labor Pool Sample

Discharged and Retired Military Personnel

The people who have been discharged from the Armed Forces are highly skilled individuals with the knowlege, training and work ethic most employers desire and the added security clearances some employers require. Many of the 3,000 young men and women discharged each year choose to stay in the area and are eager to enter the civilian workforce. Many retiring Navy personnel have already purchased homes in the area and have become active members of the community.

Military Dependents

The spouses and children of active duty military personnel bring a wide range of knowledge from a variety of backgrounds. Spouses are highly diligent, motivated, intelligent workers who have experience in a variety of industries and can adapt the skills they have acquired easily to new work environments.

Commuters

Almost half of Kitsap County's residents in the workforce now travel to work sites outside the county. Many of them would like to remain close to home and avoid the cost and inconvenience of commuting by working locally. Here's a quick profile of these workers

• 50% Professional/Technical
• 15% Management
• 12% Administrative Support
• 10% Craft/Production/Labor
• 8% Customer Service
• 5% Sales/Marketing