ABOUT PORTLAND FIRE:
Professional women’s basketball is returning to Portland. 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 Assistant Equipment Manager supports all aspects of team equipment, uniforms, footwear, and locker room operations for the Portland Fire. This seasonal role plays a key part in delivering a professional, organized, and athlete-centered environment in support of players, coaches, and Basketball Operations staff.
Working directly under the Equipment Manager, this position assists with daily operations, game preparation, inventory control, and equipment maintenance. The Assistant Equipment Manager helps ensure that all equipment and apparel meet WNBA standards while upholding the organization’s commitment to excellence.
WHAT YOULL BE UP TO:
Daily Operations & Training Support
- Assist with organizing and setting up equipment for daily practices, shootarounds, and training sessions.
- Distribute and maintain player and staff equipment, including uniforms, footwear, practice gear, and accessories.
- Support daily laundry operations for players and staff; reset lockers following each session.
- Ensure all equipment and apparel are clean, organized, properly fitted, and game-ready.
- Maintain locker room and equipment areas to professional standards.
- Assist with inventory tracking of team apparel, footwear, and equipment supplies.
- Support equipment needs for team or non-basketball events in practice or locker room spaces.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Equipment Manager.
Game Operations
Home Games
- Assist with locker room setup in accordance with WNBA guidelines and team standards.
- Prepare and organize game uniforms, including proper numbering and personalization.
- Support compliance with league, sponsor, and broadcast requirements.
- Prepare equipment for pre-game warm-ups, halftime, and post-game needs.
- Assist with visiting team locker room setup as directed.
Travel & Away Games
- Support packing and shipment of team equipment and uniforms.
- Assist with preparation of equipment for road practices, shootarounds, and games.
Inventory & Equipment Support
- Assist in tracking seasonal equipment, apparel, and footwear inventory.
- Support ordering processes and brand allotments as directed by the Equipment Manager.
- Maintain accurate sizing, distribution, and replacement records.
- Help manage organization and storage of all equipment areas.
- Support weekly scheduling and hour tracking, if applicable.
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ON OUR TEAM:
- Experience in collegiate, professional, or elite-level sports preferred (basketball experience a plus).
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-first environment.
- Excellent communication skills and professionalism when working with players and staff.
- Willingness to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and travel.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy equipment.
- Valid driver’s license preferred.
- Passion for women’s sports and contributing to a growing WNBA expansion franchise.
BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary range $60K - $70K
- Opportunity to contribute to the foundation of a new WNBA franchise.
- Hands-on experience in professional basketball operations.
- Collaborative, mission-driven, and athlete-first culture.
- Direct impact on player readiness and daily team operations.
- Be part of Portland’s growing identity as a global hub for women’s sports.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
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
