Bells HardingstoneCalifornia is one of the strongest economies in the world, and its employers play a crucial role in shaping both the state and the nation. The largest employers in California include global technology firms, prestigious universities, healthcare giants, aerospace leaders, and world-renowned entertainment companies. These organizations provide hundreds of thousands of jobs and sustain entire industries. Understanding why they are the largest employers in California gives insight into the state’s unique position as a hub of innovation, education, and opportunity.
Top 50 Largest Employers in California
1. Allied Universal – Santa Ana
Allied Universal is one of the largest employers in California with headquarters in Santa Ana. With over 800,000 employees, the company provides security and facility services across a wide range of industries. The demand for safety and reliable security continues to expand, making this company a dominant force in California’s job market. Its vast workforce highlights how essential Allied Universal is to both private and public sectors, securing its position as a top employer.
2. Kaiser Permanente – Oakland
Kaiser Permanente, based in Oakland, is one of the largest employers in California, with more than 300,000 employees. Known for its integrated healthcare system, Kaiser combines hospitals, insurance, and medical groups under one umbrella. This creates extensive job opportunities for physicians, nurses, administrative staff, and support workers. Its commitment to preventative care and innovation in healthcare delivery ensures its continued growth, making it one of the most trusted and reliable healthcare employers in California.
3. Wells Fargo Capital II – San Francisco
Wells Fargo Capital II, located in San Francisco, stands among the largest employers in California, employing over 270,000 individuals. As part of the Wells Fargo financial group, it supports banking, mortgage, and investment services nationwide. Its presence in the state strengthens California’s role as a financial hub. With career opportunities ranging from finance to customer service, Wells Fargo Capital II continues to be a leading source of employment, reflecting California’s strong ties to the financial sector.
4. Wells Fargo – San Francisco
Wells Fargo, headquartered in San Francisco, is another of the largest employers in California, employing more than 268,000 people. The company offers a variety of financial services including banking, investments, and insurance. With its history as one of America’s oldest financial institutions, Wells Fargo plays a key role in California’s economy. The scale of its workforce across branches and offices reflects its position as a stable employer, providing thousands of opportunities in banking and financial services.
5. Continental – Los Angeles
Continental, based in Los Angeles, is a global leader in automotive manufacturing and one of the largest employers in California with over 230,000 employees worldwide. The company specializes in tires, brake systems, and automotive safety solutions. California’s strong automotive and technology industries provide fertile ground for Continental’s growth. Its manufacturing facilities and innovation centers contribute significantly to the job market, making it a critical employer in the state’s industrial sector.
6. WOJRC – Oakland
WOJRC, headquartered in Oakland, ranks among the largest employers in California, with a workforce exceeding 219,000 employees. Operating as a large-scale retail corporation, the company runs multiple discount department stores across the state. California’s diverse population and consumer-driven economy make retail a vital industry, and WOJRC contributes heavily to it. Its role in providing employment opportunities in sales, logistics, and management ensures its spot as one of California’s top employers.
7. Governor of California – Sacramento
The state government of California, under the leadership of the Governor, is one of the largest employers in California. With approximately 210,000 employees, the state government runs a vast array of public services, including education, transportation, law enforcement, and healthcare. Being the fifth-largest economy in the world, California requires a large workforce to administer policies and serve its residents. The state’s consistent need for civil service jobs ensures its continued position as a major employer.
8. Internet Infinity, Inc. – Newport Beach
Internet Infinity, Inc., based in Newport Beach, stands out among the largest employers in California, with a workforce exceeding 184,000 employees. Specializing in technology and internet services, the company is part of the state’s thriving tech industry. California’s global reputation for innovation provides a strong foundation for Internet Infinity’s growth. The company offers opportunities across software development, customer service, and technical support, making it a vital player in California’s technology-driven economy and a top employment provider.
9. Taco Bell – Irvine
Taco Bell, headquartered in Irvine, is one of the largest employers in California with more than 170,000 employees across its restaurants and corporate offices. Known for its fast-food chain specializing in Mexican-inspired cuisine, Taco Bell has a significant presence in the state’s food service industry. It provides thousands of entry-level and managerial positions, especially for young workers. The company’s popularity and continued growth make it a strong contributor to California’s employment landscape.
10. Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America – Cypress
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, based in Cypress, is one of the largest employers in California, contributing greatly to the state’s technology and electronics manufacturing sector. The company employs a large workforce in research, development, and production of digital display technologies. Its presence in California emphasizes the state’s role as a leader in electronics innovation. By providing stable, high-skilled jobs, Mitsubishi plays a critical role in maintaining California’s competitive edge in technology and manufacturing.
11. Safeway Inc. – Pleasanton
Safeway Inc., headquartered in Pleasanton, is one of the largest employers in California, with thousands of employees across supermarkets and distribution centers. The company plays a vital role in the state’s retail and grocery industry. As consumer demand for fresh and accessible food continues to grow, Safeway maintains its position as a key employment provider. Its wide range of positions, from cashiers to corporate roles, highlights its impact on California’s workforce and community development.
12. Genentech – South San Francisco
Genentech, based in South San Francisco, is one of the largest employers in California within the biotechnology sector. Employing tens of thousands, Genentech is a pioneer in medical research, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology innovations. Its role in developing groundbreaking therapies makes it a cornerstone of California’s life sciences industry. With opportunities in science, technology, and administration, Genentech continues to attract top talent, solidifying its reputation as a leading employer in California’s healthcare and biotech fields.
13. Google (Alphabet Inc.) – Mountain View
Google, headquartered in Mountain View, is among the largest employers in California, with a workforce exceeding 150,000 employees. As a global technology leader, Google drives innovation in internet services, advertising, and artificial intelligence. California’s Silicon Valley provides the perfect environment for Google’s growth. The company’s employment opportunities in engineering, research, and corporate roles highlight its major influence on California’s economy. Its continued expansion cements its role as a top employer in the state.
14. Apple Inc. – Cupertino
Apple Inc., headquartered in Cupertino, is one of the largest employers in California with more than 160,000 employees. Known globally for its consumer electronics, Apple plays a major role in California’s technology sector. Its workforce covers research, design, manufacturing, and retail, offering thousands of diverse job opportunities. Apple’s iconic presence in Silicon Valley underscores California’s leadership in innovation and technology. Its strong financial position and constant growth make it a consistent and attractive employer.
15. Intel Corporation – Santa Clara
Intel Corporation, headquartered in Santa Clara, is one of the largest employers in California within the semiconductor and computing industry. With a workforce exceeding 120,000, Intel drives advancements in processors and computing technologies. California’s technology hub, Silicon Valley, provides the perfect ecosystem for Intel’s success. The company offers a wide range of jobs from engineering to marketing. Its vital role in powering devices worldwide ensures Intel’s place as a key California employer.
16. University of California System – Oakland
The University of California system, headquartered in Oakland, is one of the largest employers in California, employing over 200,000 people across campuses, hospitals, and research facilities. The UC system plays a central role in higher education, research, and medical care. It provides stable employment in both academic and administrative roles. Its presence across multiple regions of California ensures a strong workforce footprint, making it one of the state’s most influential public institutions and employers.
17. Stanford University – Stanford
Stanford University, located in Stanford, is one of the largest employers in California in the education and research sector. With thousands of faculty, staff, and researchers, it contributes significantly to California’s academic excellence and global reputation. The university provides employment in administration, academics, healthcare, and research, while supporting innovation in Silicon Valley. Stanford’s impact on the technology and education industries ensures its continued role as a leading California employer.
18. Facebook (Meta Platforms) – Menlo Park
Meta Platforms, headquartered in Menlo Park, is one of the largest employers in California with more than 80,000 employees. As a global leader in social media and digital communication, Meta drives innovation in technology and advertising. The company’s employment opportunities in software development, research, and digital services showcase its importance in California’s workforce. Its significant role in shaping the future of online platforms highlights why it remains one of the state’s top employers.
19. University of Southern California – Los Angeles
The University of Southern California, based in Los Angeles, is one of the largest employers in California, with a large workforce spanning academics, administration, and healthcare. USC’s world-class reputation as a private research university ensures its role in California’s education and medical systems. The institution provides stable and diverse employment opportunities, contributing significantly to Los Angeles’s economy. With a strong influence in both academia and healthcare, USC is firmly established as a top California employer.
20. Disney – Burbank
The Walt Disney Company, headquartered in Burbank, is one of the largest employers in California, employing tens of thousands in entertainment, media, and theme park operations. Disney’s impact on California’s culture and economy is unmatched, offering jobs in creative, technical, and operational roles. With its iconic Disneyland Resort and film production facilities, Disney remains a cornerstone of California’s global entertainment reputation. Its expansive workforce makes it a key contributor to the state’s job market.
21. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Los Angeles
UCLA is one of the largest employers in California with tens of thousands of employees in academics, research, and healthcare. Its world-class medical center, academic programs, and research facilities create a broad range of job opportunities. The university is a cornerstone of the University of California system, playing a key role in education and healthcare innovation. With its significant contribution to Los Angeles’s economy, UCLA stands as a highly influential California employer.
22. University of California, Berkeley – Berkeley
UC Berkeley is one of the largest employers in California, employing thousands of faculty, staff, and researchers. Known globally for academic excellence, the university also provides medical and administrative jobs through its hospital partnerships and campus operations. As part of the UC system, Berkeley drives innovation in technology, science, and education. Its impact extends far beyond the Bay Area, solidifying its role as a consistent and valuable employer in California.
23. California State University System – Long Beach
The California State University system, headquartered in Long Beach, is among the largest employers in California. With 23 campuses across the state, CSU employs tens of thousands of faculty, staff, and administrators. The system is central to California’s public education, providing opportunities for teaching, research, and administration. Its reach into every major region of the state ensures its workforce impact is widely felt, making CSU a critical source of stable and long-term employment.
24. Sutter Health – Sacramento
Sutter Health, headquartered in Sacramento, is one of the largest employers in California, employing more than 50,000 healthcare professionals. With hospitals and clinics across Northern California, Sutter Health provides comprehensive medical care and community health services. Its emphasis on patient-centered care ensures continued demand for skilled workers, from nurses to administrators. Sutter Health plays a key role in strengthening California’s healthcare system, making it a reliable and important employer in the state.
25. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center – Los Angeles
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is one of the largest employers in California, based in Los Angeles. Employing tens of thousands of staff, Cedars-Sinai is a leader in advanced medical research and patient care. It offers career opportunities in nursing, medical research, and hospital administration. As one of the most respected hospitals in the nation, Cedars-Sinai’s presence contributes significantly to California’s healthcare workforce, making it a vital employer in Southern California.
26. Northrop Grumman – Redondo Beach
Northrop Grumman, headquartered in Redondo Beach, is one of the largest employers in California in the aerospace and defense industry. With thousands of employees, the company focuses on aerospace technology, cybersecurity, and defense systems. California’s strong presence in aerospace innovation provides a foundation for Northrop Grumman’s growth. Offering high-skilled positions in engineering and technology, it stands as a key contributor to the state’s economy and one of its most respected employers.
27. Lockheed Martin – Palmdale
Lockheed Martin, with major facilities in Palmdale, is among the largest employers in California, employing thousands in the aerospace sector. The company specializes in defense, aerospace engineering, and advanced technology solutions. Its operations in California include designing and manufacturing aircraft and space systems. With a reputation for innovation and reliability, Lockheed Martin provides highly skilled jobs, contributing significantly to California’s position as a global leader in aerospace.
28. Oracle Corporation – Redwood City
Oracle Corporation, headquartered in Redwood City, is one of the largest employers in California, with a workforce dedicated to software, databases, and cloud technology. The company employs thousands of engineers, developers, and business professionals. Oracle’s presence strengthens California’s role as a leader in global technology. Offering stable career paths in the growing tech sector, Oracle continues to stand out as a major California employer, reflecting the importance of technology in the state’s economy.
29. University of California, San Diego – San Diego
UC San Diego is one of the largest employers in California, employing tens of thousands of faculty, staff, and healthcare professionals. The university is a leader in medical research, oceanography, and engineering, providing extensive career opportunities. Its medical center and research facilities contribute greatly to California’s innovation and healthcare systems. As both an academic and healthcare hub, UC San Diego plays a central role in the state’s employment landscape.
30. University of California, Davis – Davis
UC Davis, located in Davis, is among the largest employers in California, with a workforce that spans education, research, and healthcare. The university is particularly known for its contributions to veterinary medicine, agriculture, and environmental sciences. Its medical center and campus operations employ thousands across multiple fields. UC Davis’s dual focus on education and applied sciences ensures its continued importance as one of California’s top academic and healthcare employers.
31. University of California, San Francisco – San Francisco
UC San Francisco is one of the largest employers in California, with a strong focus on medical research and healthcare. Employing tens of thousands of staff across its hospitals, laboratories, and academic programs, UCSF is a leader in life sciences. Its contributions to cancer research, biotechnology, and patient care make it an essential institution in California. UCSF’s role in healthcare innovation cements its status as a major state employer.
32. Facebook Reality Labs – Menlo Park
Facebook Reality Labs, part of Meta Platforms in Menlo Park, is one of the largest employers in California within the virtual and augmented reality space. Employing thousands of engineers, researchers, and developers, the division focuses on creating future technologies in AR and VR. Its work is integral to California’s leadership in advanced technology and innovation. By providing cutting-edge jobs in research and development, it continues to strengthen California’s employment landscape.
33. Chevron Corporation – San Ramon
Chevron, headquartered in San Ramon, is one of the largest employers in California in the energy sector. Employing tens of thousands globally, the company’s California base includes thousands of high-skilled jobs in engineering, technology, and corporate operations. Chevron’s role in energy production and sustainability makes it vital to California’s economy. As the state transitions toward cleaner energy solutions, Chevron remains a central employer, offering stable careers in a critical industry.
34. Amazon – Sunnyvale and statewide
Amazon is one of the largest employers in California, with tens of thousands of employees in fulfillment centers, delivery services, and corporate offices across the state. Its operations in Sunnyvale and multiple other locations provide employment opportunities in logistics, technology, and customer service. California’s consumer-driven market fuels Amazon’s workforce demand. The company’s consistent growth in e-commerce ensures that it remains one of California’s most significant employers.
35. Target Corporation – Minneapolis headquarters, California locations
Target is among the largest employers in California, operating hundreds of retail stores and employing tens of thousands of workers. While headquartered in Minnesota, its California presence includes stores, warehouses, and distribution centers. The company offers a wide range of jobs from entry-level retail positions to managerial and corporate roles. With California’s strong consumer base, Target maintains a large workforce, reinforcing its position as a key employer in the state’s retail sector.
36. University of California, Irvine – Irvine
UC Irvine is one of the largest employers in California, employing thousands in education, research, and healthcare. The university’s medical center and research programs provide diverse opportunities in science, academics, and administration. UC Irvine’s reputation as a top research institution attracts talent from around the world. Its consistent contributions to education and medical innovation ensure its place as one of California’s most important public employers.
37. University of California, Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara
UC Santa Barbara, located on the central coast, is one of the largest employers in California, employing thousands across its academic, administrative, and research divisions. Known for its environmental and engineering programs, the university supports California’s innovation-driven economy. With a wide range of jobs from faculty to support staff, UC Santa Barbara provides stable employment while shaping the next generation of leaders, cementing its role as a top state employer.
38. California Institute of Technology (Caltech) – Pasadena
Caltech, located in Pasadena, is among the largest employers in California in the field of science and research. Though smaller in student population, Caltech employs thousands in academic, research, and technical roles. Its global reputation in physics, engineering, and space sciences ensures its influence is far-reaching. With its partnerships with NASA and other institutions, Caltech plays a critical role in California’s scientific workforce, making it a respected employer in the state.
39. Tesla Inc. – Fremont and Palo Alto
Tesla, with its main manufacturing facility in Fremont and headquarters in Palo Alto, is one of the largest employers in California. The company employs tens of thousands of workers in electric vehicle production, research, and technology development. Tesla’s presence underscores California’s leadership in clean energy and innovation. By creating high-tech jobs in engineering and manufacturing, Tesla continues to expand its influence, securing its position as a major California employer.
40. SpaceX – Hawthorne
SpaceX, headquartered in Hawthorne, is one of the largest employers in California within the aerospace and space exploration industry. The company employs thousands of engineers, scientists, and manufacturing specialists. Its ambitious projects in space transportation and satellite technology place California at the forefront of global aerospace innovation. SpaceX’s growth continues to provide high-skilled employment, reinforcing California’s role as a hub for aerospace and technology careers.
41. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) – San Francisco
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, headquartered in San Francisco, is one of the largest employers in California in the energy and utilities sector. With thousands of employees, PG&E provides natural gas and electricity to millions of customers across Northern California. The company offers jobs in engineering, field operations, customer service, and corporate administration. As a critical part of California’s infrastructure, PG&E ensures reliable power, making it a consistent and vital employer in the state.
42. Hewlett Packard Enterprise – San Jose
Hewlett Packard Enterprise, based in San Jose, is one of the largest employers in California, with thousands of employees focused on information technology, cloud services, and hardware solutions. The company’s strong presence in Silicon Valley allows it to attract top global talent. Hewlett Packard Enterprise provides jobs in engineering, research, sales, and corporate management. Its contributions to the tech industry highlight why it continues to be a top California employer, supporting innovation and long-term career opportunities.
43. Sony Interactive Entertainment – San Mateo
Sony Interactive Entertainment, headquartered in San Mateo, is one of the largest employers in California in the entertainment and technology sectors. Known as the home of PlayStation, the company employs thousands of workers in gaming development, marketing, and technology innovation. Its strong base in California allows it to influence the global gaming industry. Sony’s ability to provide careers in creativity, research, and engineering solidifies its place among California’s top employers.
44. Paramount Pictures – Los Angeles
Paramount Pictures, based in Los Angeles, is one of the largest employers in California in the film and entertainment industry. Employing thousands in production, creative roles, and corporate operations, Paramount continues to play a major role in Hollywood’s global influence. Its studios and production facilities in California provide stable jobs in a highly competitive industry. Paramount’s continued success in producing and distributing films makes it a reliable and respected employer in California’s entertainment sector.
45. Warner Bros. Entertainment – Burbank
Warner Bros., headquartered in Burbank, is one of the largest employers in California within the entertainment and media industry. Employing thousands across production, animation, distribution, and corporate roles, Warner Bros. is a pillar of Hollywood. Its television, film, and digital content divisions provide a wide range of career opportunities. Warner Bros. remains an iconic presence in California’s economy, offering stable employment while supporting the state’s reputation as a global leader in entertainment.
46. Amgen Inc. – Thousand Oaks
Amgen, located in Thousand Oaks, is one of the largest employers in California in the biotechnology sector. Employing thousands, the company specializes in biotechnology research, development, and pharmaceuticals. Amgen’s contributions to life sciences and healthcare innovation ensure its place as a critical employer. With careers in science, manufacturing, and corporate operations, Amgen provides high-skilled employment opportunities that support California’s leadership in biotechnology and pharmaceutical advancements.
47. eBay Inc. – San Jose
eBay, headquartered in San Jose, is one of the largest employers in California, employing thousands in technology, digital commerce, and customer support. The company’s online marketplace connects buyers and sellers worldwide, with California as its operational hub. eBay provides jobs in engineering, business management, and marketing, reflecting the state’s digital innovation culture. Its continued growth in e-commerce ensures eBay’s importance as a top employer in California, offering diverse and stable career opportunities.
48. Uber Technologies Inc. – San Francisco
Uber, headquartered in San Francisco, is one of the largest employers in California within the transportation and technology sector. Employing thousands in engineering, operations, and customer support, Uber revolutionized ride-sharing globally. California’s innovation-friendly environment supports Uber’s growth and continued success. With its vast network of employees and contractors, Uber plays a central role in modern transportation, securing its position as a major California employer and a driver of technological innovation.
49. Lyft Inc. – San Francisco
Lyft, based in San Francisco, is one of the largest employers in California in the ride-sharing and transportation sector. Employing thousands across corporate roles, technology development, and customer support, Lyft contributes heavily to California’s tech-driven economy. Its innovative approach to urban transportation ensures consistent demand for talent. Lyft’s strong headquarters presence in California solidifies its role as an important employer, offering careers in both technology and operations while supporting the state’s dynamic job market.
50. Netflix Inc. – Los Gatos
Netflix, headquartered in Los Gatos, is one of the largest employers in California within the entertainment and digital media sector. Employing thousands of people, Netflix specializes in streaming services, content production, and technology development. Its rapid global growth has expanded career opportunities across creative, technical, and business divisions. Netflix’s influence in reshaping the entertainment industry highlights California’s leadership in media innovation, making it a vital employer in the state’s economy and job market.
Reasons Why They Are The Largest Employers in California
- Diverse industries such as technology, healthcare, education, entertainment, and energy drive constant workforce demand.
- California’s global reputation for innovation attracts both domestic and international investment, expanding job opportunities.
- A large and highly skilled labor pool allows companies to scale operations effectively.
- The state’s vast population creates strong consumer demand, fueling retail, service, and healthcare employment.
- Universities and hospitals generate stable, long-term jobs across multiple professional fields.
- Government institutions provide essential services requiring large numbers of employees statewide.
- Strategic locations near ports, airports, and major cities support industry growth and employment needs.
- The presence of global headquarters ensures California remains central to international corporate operations.
Why You Should Meet These Largest Employers in California
- They provide access to stable and long-term career opportunities across different industries.
- Meeting these employers offers valuable networking opportunities with global leaders.
- They represent innovation and cutting-edge research, opening doors for professional growth.
- Their community and economic impact ensure careers with strong purpose and influence.
- They offer diverse career paths, from entry-level to highly specialized positions.
- Engaging with them gives insight into the industries shaping California’s future.
- They provide opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and workforce development.
Conclusion
The largest employers in California are more than just workplaces; they are powerful institutions that drive innovation, education, healthcare, and global progress. They employ millions, fuel California’s economy, and strengthen its global reputation as a hub of opportunity. From Silicon Valley tech leaders to world-class universities and healthcare systems, these employers define California’s role in the modern world. Meeting and understanding them is essential for anyone seeking to build a meaningful career or contribute to the state’s future.