Ontario, California has a growing population of over 173,000 people. It is a fantastic place to live and work with a ton of opportunities in various industries and employment options. The Greater Ontario area has some 3.2 million people who live, work, and play here. By 2020, that number is expected to grow by 1.8 million, bringing the total to 5.0 million. This will unleash a lot of opportunities in the area and open up new fields.
Top Industries in Ontario, California
When examining the top industries in any locality, there are a few things you need to look for before determining which one is the most promising. First, you have to determine whether an industry is “fixed.” This means it isn’t something that will disappear within a few years. Certain industries have “booms” and then peter out, leaving people without jobs or with specializations that are no longer needed. Then, you have to look at the specific area in question. For this guide, we looked at Ontario, California and saw which industries will stay here and which are likely to move elsewhere to other countries, other cities, or to an online platform. Finally, you have to look at the industries that are actively hiring and retiring, meaning that people get into the industry quickly and people stay in that industry for many years.
There are quite a few industries within Ontario, California, but there are the ones that stand out amongst the crowd:
The fastest growing industry in Ontario is the retail industry. Ontario has quite a few retail locations that bring in $4.6 billion in taxable revenue, ranking only behind LA, San Diego, and Anaheim in Southern California. Some 800,000 people will come into Ontario from the surrounding areas to shop regularly.
The largest employer in the retail industry is Ontario Mills Mall, a 1.7 million square-foot shopping center that makes up California’s largest outlet shopping malls. It also has a large entertainment center that contributes to these numbers.
One of California’s most popular tourist attractions, over 20 million shoppers spend money at stores such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Calvin Klein, and Huge Boss. The Cheesecake Factory, Rainforest Café, and Dave & Busters offer positions as well.
Office Professional Work
Also known as “professional services,” this industry covers a wide range of job placements. Many industry groupings will have “professional services” at their grasp, including law firms, accounting firms, hospitals and healthcare (see below), management consultants, research and development firms (see below), and biotechs. Many of these areas require high knowledge of the specific industry in which you will work.
Another quickly evolving industry in Ontario, CA is the office market, which includes corporate headquarters, technology companies, and professional firms. Some of the companies that have offices here include Chapman University, Merrill Lynch, and the Brady Corporation. More and more companies are relocating to Ontario because it has a relatively low rent rate for office buildings.
It is also a premiere choice for people who want to avoid the congestion and traffic of LA but still get that big-time business firm action. Since Ontario is only a few minutes from LA/Ontario International Airport (LA/ONT), they can still retain a lot of high profile clients and opportunities. Communications companies, in particular, enjoy the fastest broadband thanks to a fiber optic system.
Office work is also available at any of the many colleges and universities nearby in what is known locally as the "innovation corridor." These include:
Harvey Mudd College
Keck Graduate School of Applied Life Sciences
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
The University of California, Riverside
Loma Linda University
California State University, San Bernardino
The Claremont Colleges
The University of Redlands
The Accredited University of La Verne School of Law
Industrial
There is a wide range of jobs to be found within the “industrial industry” as well. You will find people from all walks of life, from new professionals to seasoned veterans who are building the most complex and innovative systems in existence. This industry can be broken down in hundreds of jobs and titles that require degrees, certificates, or training. Some of the most popular titles found in Ontario, California are: industrial engineer (optimizing complex industrial processes), industrial loans (banking), industrial organization (a HUGE field that looks at the structures and boundaries between markets and firms), industrial technology (the design, build, optimization, management, and operating systems of a business or company), and construction work.
Ontario also has a very productive real estate market for industrial sites. This means that more and more companies are moving here to build up their companies. For those planning to build a new site or to work with startups, this is a fantastic place to look. It is also home to one of the largest growing labor forces in the country. Firms are also located near each other so that when they work, they are able to run between buildings. This is a great way for companies to work and grow the community together.
Ontario, CA Foreign Trade Zone
The Ontario Foreign Trade Zone is a relief zone that allows products for storage, manipulation, manufacturing, exhibition, or destroying if they will not enter the US economy. This helps with international sales and helps the area realize the potential in exploration and success in Global markets.
Freeway/Rail Systems
Ontario also reaps the benefits of the freeway and rail systems. It falls at the intersection of Interstate 10, I-15, and Route 60, three of the biggest arteries in the freeway system. People are continually working and bringing new industry here.
For those interested, Ontario also has two major railways nearby the contribute to the industrial industry: Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway and the Union Pacific Railway.
Healthcare and Medical Industry
The healthcare industry, which you could see referred to as healthy economy and/or the medical industry for some schools, is a large and complex system that provides services to other people in all kinds of care, including: palliative care, rehabilitative care, preventative care, and curative care. Each of these sectors are well represented in the Ontario, California area. Note that this industry also include the “generation and commercialization” of goods are services that work directly with the healthcare industry in Ontario, California. This could include professionals, those in the manufacturing field, and transportation specialists.
The healthcare industry in Ontario is extremely large, giving the needs of people near and far. A mixture of provider, services, facilities, programs, and specialists are available throughout the area. People travel from all over the country to meet with some of the doctors and specialists that receive care here. There are constantly people floating into the community to treat and educate everyone for a comprehensive list of disorders, illnesses, and diseases.
In general, the healthcare industry is one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the world, and it is growing at an even faster rate in California. We have one of the largest sectors in the world, beating out many small countries.
There are a few different options for people who want to work in the medical field:
Kaiser Permanente Ontario-Vineyard Medical Campus
2295 S Vineyard Ave
Ontario, CA 91761
This is a patient-centered facility of 386,000 square feet that combines the latest in technology with a peaceful, patient-centered atmosphere. The green practices and rigorous safety standards make it one of the top working destinations in the healthcare industry.
Those who work here enjoy the sky lights, natural lights, and warm colors that have been inspired by nature. Everything here is to make you comfortable and enjoy your workspace while helping give patients a better experience.
For those interested in technology, you will find some of the most technologically advanced gear here, from computer terminals at all beds to sophisticated imaging systems that help treat patients quickly and easily. All areas of the campus are covered with Wi-Fi, allowing the best possible experience.
Throughout the last few years and continuing into the future, billions of dollars will be dedicated to upgrades.
San Antonio Community Hospital
999 San Bernardino Road
Upland, CA 91786
This is a 330-bed hospital that has services that include "emergency, medical, surgical, critical care, cardiovascular, maternity and pediatric, family care center, neonatal intensive care and cancer treatment." There are over 2000 professionals and 500 medical staff members.
Kindred Hospital Ontario
550 N Monterey Avenue
Ontario, CA 91764
This is a 91-bed acute care hospital that specializes in the patients who need extra care and extended lengths of stay. This is an employment destination for many specialized care doctors who provide " Intensive Care Unit, 24-hour physician coverage, nursing services, respiratory therapists, radiology, surgical services, nutrition support, rehabilitation services, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social" and other services.
Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center
1798 N. Garey Avenue
Pomona, CA 91767
A nationally recognized as a 100 Top Hospital, it is a not-for-profit teaching hospital that holds 446 beds for acute care. There are over 600 physicians, 2,400 employees, and 800 volunteers on an annual basis. Some of the specialized care given to patients here include: The Robert and Beverly Lewis Family Cancer Care Center, The Stead Heart Center, The Women's Center, Regional Kidney Stone Center, Sleep Disorders Center, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Center, Family Health Center and Family Practice Residency Program, Central Avenue Urgent Care Center, Pain Management Program, Diabetes Management Program, Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Program, and the Breast Health Center.
Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC)
11234 Anderson Street
Loma Linda, California 92354
This hospital has 900 beds, including the Loma Linda University Children's Hospital and Loma Linda University Proton Treatment Center. It is recognized as the international leader in infant heart transplants and as a leading center for proton treatments for cancer. It is also the only level-one regional trauma center for Inyo, Mono, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.
Some of the other employment areas include: adult day care and health services; behavioral medicine center; cancer institute; the children's hospital; craniofacial team; dentistry; diabetes treatment center; ear, nose, and throat; eye medicine; fertility center; heart institute; home care services; marital & family therapy clinic; the National Medical Technology Testbed (NMTB); neuropsychology; neurosurgery; neurosciences; the nursing division; nutritional services; joint replacement center; pain management center; pediatric surgery; proton treatment center; radiology; rehabilitation (PM&R); Ronald McDonald House; sleep disorders center; transplantation institute; urology; and vascular surgery.
Within the next decade, there will be more medical facilities and jobs opening throughout the greater Ontario, California area. While one cannot guarantee how many jobs will come from this growth, there is hope for many, many new positions to be available. As technology changes, this is a place to keep an eye open.
Research & Development
Research and development is a joint term for the activities that we connect mostly with innovation in corporations, government, science, technology, and other commercialization processes. What exactly one does within this category differs from company to company, but there are two primary models that most companies build off of: a research and development department with engineers to design new products or one with scientists that take applied research that can facilitate future development.
In many places, working in the research and development field is risky because it is a position that can be eliminated. However, Ontario, California is such a powerhouse in all industries that jobs are considered safe.
Ontario, California is quickly growing in terms of technology, green-the, medicine, and engineering innovation. Not only does the area attract a highly skilled workforce, but it also has served as a fertile environment where people can grow and nurture their skills.
The green movement have found a home here in particular because of the desire of the local government and citizens to cut the carbon footprint of the city. Companies, schools, hospitals, and everywhere in between are dedicated to the advancement of green technology and growth. From electric cars to solar panels, the businesses remain at the forefront of the movement. Ontario also offers trade schools that help push those toward greener technology and living.
Ontario also has many opportunities in research and development in the medical field. There are several career colleges in Ontario that offer students the chance to become leaders. Ontario is home to state of the art hospitals, as mentioned above, the specialize in high-tech care.
Another industry that has seen a lot of growth is Food Processing and Manufacturing. These companies are dedicated to using technology to bring about the best food products available. Once again, many of these companies are also green and finding the best ways to innovate their methods so that foods are fresh and healthy.
Ontario, California has a lot of growth happening in and around it, and it is definitely a place to keep your eyes looking toward in the future. In fact, a lot of industries and jobs start here and then go nationwide.
There are many companies that continue to build and invest in the people of Ontario, California, including Toyota, Covidien, Chapman University, and City National Bank. They come here because of the hard-working people, the infrastructure, and the need for connections. Businesses thrive here, so once you have a job that you like, you will likely stay here for as long as you want.
The effective tools and efficient developers mean that competitions and the job market continue to grow and strengthen.
Top Employers in Ontario, California
Here are the top employers in Ontario, California:
Ontario International Airport, Ontario- 7,510
North American Medical Management, Ontario - 1,304
City of Ontario, Ontario - 1,075
Mag Instruments, Ontario - 850
Citizens Business Bank, Ontario -718
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Ontario - 500
Fullmer Construction, Ontario - 350
Classic Containers Inc., Ontario - 335
Classic Containers Inc., Ontario - 325
Kindred Hospital Ontario, Ontario - 325
Mervyn’s, Ontario - 300
Mark Christopher Auto Center, Ontario - 279
Ontario - 104
Argosy University
Located in Ontario, CA, Argosy University offers eight colleges to students to receive doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees. These schools include: College of Behavioral Sciences, Graduate School of Business and Management, College of Education, College of Health Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Creative Arts and Design, College of Clinical Psychology and Western State College of Law at Argosy University. There are also certification programs.
The major categories include: Business, Criminal Justice, Legal and Safety, Psychology, Counseling and Mental Health
Platt College
Also located in Ontario, CA, this is a smaller college that has courses of study to earn your associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, healthcare, nursing, and safety.
Universal Technical Institute
Located near Ontario, CA in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. UTI is a highly respected school where students get hands-on training in technology and skills that you can then use in a career as a professional technician. Many students will work in Ontario and the surrounding areas. Most of the careers here are vocational and trade, though they do offer specialized training
US Colleges
Located in Montclair, CA, U.S. colleges is a younger college that helps many students achieve their dreams without spending money. You can get a certificate in Business, Health, Healthcare and Nursing.
Resources:
Greater Ontario Visitors and Convention Bureau
- http://www.discoverontariocalifornia.org/
Ontario Convention Center - http://www.ontariocc.org/
City of Ontario, California - http://www.ontarioca.gov/jobs
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