ABOUT PORTLAND FIRE:
Professional women’s basketball is returning to Rip City. On September 18, 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) awarded Portland its 15th franchise, bringing the league back to the city for the first time in over two decades. Owned and operated by the Bhathal family through RAJ Sports, the team will make its official debut in 2026 at the Moda Center. Portland is cementing itself as the epicenter of women’s sports, powered by a passionate fan base and a rich basketball culture. At Portland Fire, we’re building more than a team, we’re creating a modern, inclusive, and community-driven organization from the ground up. With innovation, integrity, and excellence at our core, our mission is to set a new standard in women’s professional basketball - delivering excellence on the court, inspiring fans, and serving the city we call home. As we prepare for our inaugural season, we’re looking for passionate, driven professionals to help shape the future of this franchise and the future of the game.
THE ROLE:
The In-Arena Emcee serves as the primary on-court host, central to the overall game presentation and fan engagement strategy. This role works in close coordination with the Game Experience team to ensure all in-game elements are delivered with professional clarity and in alignment with organizational standards. The successful candidate must demonstrate exceptional communication skills, sound judgement in live, fast-paced environments, and the ability to execute both scripted and unscripted elements with unwavering composure.
WHAT YOU'LL BE UP TO:
- Serve as the primary in-arena emcee during designated segments, including timeouts, halftime activities, and promotional elements
- Deliver scripted announcements, sponsor integrations, and public-facing messages clearly and accurately
- Facilitate fan engagement activities, contests, and recognitions in a professional and engaging manner
- Coordinate with the Game Experience team to adhere to strict timing, cues, and script requirements
- Represent the organization consistently with brand standards and values both in and out of the arena
- Participate in all scheduled rehearsals, pre-game meetings, and training sessions as required
- Support off-court appearances, community events, and sponsor functions as assigned
Schedule: Portland Fire game days and select promotional or community events (evenings, weekends, and holidays as required)
WHAT IT TAKES:
- Prior professional experience in live event hosting, broadcasting, public speaking, or related field
- Excellent verbal communication and on-camera skills
- Proven ability to remain composed and professional in a live, fast-paced event environment
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with a high degree of reliability and punctuality
- Availability to work evenings, weekends and holidays during the season
Physical and Environmental Requirements
- Ability to stand and move for extended periods
- Ability to project voice clearly in a large, high-noise venue, with or without amplification
Applicants must submit video reel for consideration. Finalists will be invited for a live, in-person audition at a TBD date.
BENEFITS
- This is a contract (W9) role, competitive pay, no travel.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- Dynamic, collaborative and fun work environment.
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the growth of women's basketball.
Ready to Be a Game Changer in Portland? Apply Now!
If you’re ready to shape the future of Portland Fire, we want to hear from you. Join us as we make history—on and off the court.
Portland Fire is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
About Portland Fire Ownership, RAJ Sports:
RAJ Sports, led by Alex Bhathal and Lisa Bhathal Merage, focuses on investment opportunities in sports and sports-related properties, drawing on the Bhathal family’s multi-generational experience and relationships in the industry. The firm seeks to leverage the power of sports to affect broader social and economic change through a variety of business and philanthropic strategies. Its deep experience in professional sports operations and large-scale real estate developments that create thriving community centers, positions the firm to deliver valuable assets that will support further growth for the players, staff, and fans. In 2013, the Bhathal family became investors in the Sacramento Kings (NBA); subsequently building the platform to include the Sacramento RiverCats (MiLB), Stockton Kings (NBA G-League) and several sports anchored real estate developments. The 2024 acquisitions of Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the Portland Fire expansion team represents a milestone for the city of Portland and places it at the epicenter of growth for women’s sports.
