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 Security Specialist plays a critical role in protecting the Portland Fire players, coaches, staff, and facilities while supporting the competitive excellence and public visibility of a WNBA franchise. This role is responsible for proactive risk assessment, advance planning, and day-to-day security operations at home, on the road, and within the community.

This position requires discretion, emotional intelligence, and the ability to operate in high-profile, fast-moving environments unique to women’s professional basketball.

WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
Player & Team Protection

Provide unarmed executive protection for players, coaches, and support staff during practices, games, travel, appearances, and community events.
Serve as a trusted on-site presence, balancing visibility with discretion and professionalism.

Advance Planning & Risk Assessment

Develop and execute comprehensive protective advance plans for home games, road games, training sessions, and team travel.
Conduct threat and vulnerability assessments specific to WNBA environments, player visibility, and public engagement.
Game Day & Travel Operations
Escort team members through airports, hotels, arenas, and secure transit routes.
Coordinate with venue security, WNBA security operations, and local law enforcement to ensure safe ingress/egress and situational awareness.

Incident Response & Reporting

Respond to incidents and emergencies using a calm, de-escalation-first approach.
Assist medical personnel as needed and ensure timely communication with team leadership and the WNBA.
Document and report all incidents, concerns, or suspicious activity accurately and professionally.

Security Team Management

Hire, schedule, and manage supplemental security personnel.
Oversee security operations budget and resource allocation.
Ensure proper operation of communications, monitoring, and protective equipment.

Additional Duties

Conduct searches of facilities, equipment, or individuals when required.
Perform other duties consistent with the mission of the Portland Fire and the WNBA.

WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ON OUR TEAM:

5+ years of experience in security, safety, or risk management.
Experience in professional sports, large venues (15,000+ capacity), or high-profile environments preferred.
Proven ability to lead teams and manage security staff.
Strong understanding of protective planning, incident response, and de-escalation.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively with athletes, executives, league officials, and law enforcement.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable under pressure.
Professional judgment, discretion, and emotional intelligence are essential.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

In-person role based at Moda Center and additional team training facilities.
Requires evenings, weekends, holidays, and travel with the team.
Must possess required identification for domestic and international travel.
Must reside in Oregon upon date of hire.
Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform light lifting.
Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

BENEFITS:

Competitive salary and performance-based incentives, Salary range $60,000 – $70,000
Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs
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 (WNBA) expansion team represents a milestone for the city of Portland and places it at the epicenter of growth for women’s sports

Portland Fire - Sporting Operations