Bay County Jobs & Employment Guide

Your complete local guide to finding jobs in Bay County, including Panama City and Panama City Beach. This pillar page connects job seekers with top employers, government careers, job fairs, and free employment resources available in 2026.

Bay County Job Market Overview

Bay County, Florida continues to show steady employment growth heading into 2026. With a diverse economy supported by military operations, healthcare systems, tourism, education, and local government, job seekers have access to opportunities across multiple industries.

Panama City’s ongoing redevelopment, continued expansion at Tyndall Air Force Base, and population growth throughout Bay County are contributing to increased hiring in both public and private sectors. Whether you’re entering the workforce, transitioning careers, or relocating to the area, Bay County offers a wide range of employment paths.

Major Employers Hiring in Bay County

Bay County Government Jobs

The Bay County Board of County Commissioners regularly hires for positions in public works, utilities, emergency services, maintenance, administration, and skilled trades. Government jobs offer competitive benefits, stability, and long-term career growth.

Bay District Schools Careers

Bay District Schools is one of the largest employers in the county, with frequent openings for teachers, instructional staff, counselors, bus drivers, maintenance workers, and support personnel. Positions are posted year-round as schools prepare for new academic terms.

Military & Defense Employers

Tyndall Air Force Base and the Naval Surface Warfare Center  (NSWC) Panama City Division are major economic drivers. Civilian and contractor roles include logistics, warehouse support, administration, engineering, and technical positions. Veterans and transitioning service members are strongly encouraged to apply.

Healthcare Employers in Panama City

Healthcare remains one of the fastest-growing industries in Bay County. Major employers such as Ascension Sacred Heart Bay Medical Center regularly hire registered nurses, medical assistants, technicians, administrative staff, and specialized healthcare professionals.

Hospitality & Tourism Jobs

Panama City Beach continues to provide seasonal and year-round employment in hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, retail, and event services. These roles are ideal for entry-level workers, students, and those seeking flexible schedules.

Government & Public Sector Jobs in Bay County

Public sector employment includes county, state, and federal positions available throughout Bay County. These roles often provide benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and consistent schedules.

Common public sector employers include:

• Bay County Board of County Commissioners

• State of Florida agencies

• Florida Department of Health

• Florida Courts

Job seekers interested in state-level positions should use the State of Florida People First employment portal.

Military, Veteran & Defense Contractor Jobs

Bay County is home to one of the largest military presences in Northwest Florida. Civilian and defense contractor positions support military operations while offering stable employment opportunities.

Veteran-focused resources are available locally to assist with résumé translation, interview preparation, and job placement. Many employers actively seek veterans due to their leadership experience and technical skills.

Healthcare & Medical Careers in Bay County

Healthcare careers in Bay County continue to expand due to population growth and increased demand for medical services. Opportunities exist for licensed professionals, entry-level workers, and administrative staff.

In-demand roles include:

• Registered Nurses (RNs)

• Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)

• Medical Technicians

• Front office and billing specialists

Healthcare employers also partner with local training programs to help residents earn certifications and advance their careers.

Education, Training & Workforce Development

Job training and education play a critical role in long-term career success. Bay County offers workforce development programs through:

• Gulf Coast State College

• CareerSource Gulf Coast

• Trade and certification programs

These resources help job seekers gain in-demand skills for healthcare, construction, manufacturing, information technology, and public service careers.

Job Search Resources for Bay County Residents

CareerSource Gulf Coast provides free services including career coaching, résumé assistance, job placement support, veteran services, and access to local hiring events.

Employ Florida

Employ Florida is the state’s official job portal, allowing users to search thousands of job listings across public and private sectors and receive job alerts.

Indeed & ZipRecruiter

Indeed and ZipRecruiter are widely used platforms for finding private-sector jobs in Panama City and Panama City Beach. Both platforms are completely free for job seekers to use.

Bay County Job Fairs & Hiring Events

Local job fairs and hiring events are excellent opportunities to meet employers face-to-face. The Annual Bay County Job Fair, typically held in March at Gulf Coast State College, brings together dozens of local employers each year.

Workshops and recruitment events are also hosted throughout the year by CareerSource Gulf Coast and local employers.

Job Search Tips for Bay County Job Seekers

• Keep your résumé updated and tailored to each position

• Apply early for government and school district jobs

• Attend job fairs and networking events

• Use multiple job boards to increase exposure

• Follow up professionally after submitting applications

• Consistency and preparation are key to success in the local job market.

Latest Hiring News in Bay County

Stay up to date with the latest job openings, employer expansions, and hiring announcements across Bay County. This section will feature regularly updated job-related news articles and employer spotlights.

Find Jobs in Bay County Today

Bay County offers strong employment opportunities for job seekers at every stage of their career. From government and healthcare to military support and tourism, the local economy continues to grow.

Check back often for updates, Subscribe to our Panama City Spotlight newsletter for local hiring alerts, and explore the resources above to take the next step in your job search.

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