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Employment in Waco, Texas

Waco is the economic and cultural hub of McLennan County and the greater Central Texas region. Its diverse economy is anchored by major institutions in higher education and healthcare, and it boasts a robust and growing presence in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and logistics. The city's strategic location on the I-35 corridor between Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin makes it a critical center for commerce and transportation.

Major Industry Segments

Waco's economy is well-diversified across several key sectors:

  • Healthcare: With two major hospital systems and a large VA hospital, healthcare is one of the largest employment sectors in the city.
  • Education: Waco is a major center for education, home to Baylor University, McLennan Community College, and the flagship campus of Texas State Technical College.
  • Advanced Manufacturing & Food Production: The city has a strong base of manufacturing companies, including major players in food and beverage production, aerospace, and other specialized industries.
  • Aerospace & Defense: A significant and high-tech sector, anchored by major defense contractors.
  • Retail & Wholesale Trade: As a regional hub, Waco has a large and diverse retail and wholesale sector.
  • Supply Chain Management: The city's central location makes it a key logistics and distribution hub.

Major Employers

Waco is home to a large number of major employers. The following list, while not exhaustive, highlights some of the most significant.

Healthcare

  • Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Hillcrest: A full-service, 236-bed hospital providing a wide range of medical services.
  • Ascension Providence Hospital: A major medical center with a Level II Trauma Center and a wide array of specialty services.
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: The Doris Miller Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare to veterans.
    • Expected Roles (Healthcare): Physicians, nurses, medical technicians, therapists, pharmacists, and a vast number of administrative and support staff.

Education

  • Baylor University: A private Christian university and a nationally ranked research institution. It is one of the largest employers in Waco.
    • Expected Roles: Faculty, researchers, administrative staff, IT professionals, and facilities management.
  • Waco Independent School District: The primary public school system for the city of Waco.
  • McLennan Community College (MCC): A public community college serving Waco and the surrounding areas.
  • Texas State Technical College (TSTC): While located in Lacy Lakeview, TSTC is a critical part of the Waco-area educational and workforce development landscape.
    • Expected Roles (Education): Teachers, professors, instructors, administrators, and support staff.

Manufacturing, Aerospace & Defense

  • L3Harris Technologies: A major aerospace and defense contractor with a large aircraft modification center in Waco.
    • Expected Roles: Engineers, aircraft mechanics, technicians, and program managers.
  • Cargill, Mars Wrigley, Pilgrim's Pride, Sanderson Farms: These major food production companies have significant manufacturing and processing plants in the Waco area.
    • Expected Roles: Production line workers, quality assurance, maintenance, logistics, and management.
  • Allergan (an AbbVie company): A pharmaceutical company with a manufacturing facility in Waco.
  • Hello Bello: A manufacturer of baby and family care products, co-founded by Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, with a major manufacturing facility in Waco.

Retail, Wholesale & Logistics

  • H-E-B: A major Texas-based supermarket chain with multiple stores and a large distribution center in the Waco area.
  • Walmart & Sam's Club: Major retail and wholesale employers with multiple locations.
  • Amazon: Operates a large fulfillment center in Waco, a key part of its logistics network.

Recent & Upcoming Investment (2025–2026)

  • S2A Modular: A California-based manufacturer of luxury modular smart homes has broken ground on a 200,000 sq ft mega-factory in Waco's Texas Central Park. The $30 million investment spans 30 acres and is expected to create 200+ jobs over two years.
  • SpaceX (McGregor): SpaceX is adding a $150 million state-of-the-art rocket production facility to its existing McGregor campus, targeting 400 new jobs by 2026. While located in McGregor (~15 miles west), this is a major regional employer drawing from the Waco workforce.
  • Knauf Insulation (McGregor): Announced a new 600,000 sq ft facility in McGregor — the company's largest single investment in its history at $210 million — employing 150+ at full production.
  • Tech Sector Growth: Waco has experienced 40% growth in tech companies over the last three years, now totaling 200+ tech-focused businesses. The city's startup ecosystem has attracted over $1.2 billion in new capital investment, with an 18% rise in tech opportunities expected by 2026.

Career Opportunities

Waco offers a broad and resilient job market with opportunities across a wide range of skill levels and industries. The healthcare and education sectors provide a stable base of professional employment. The manufacturing and logistics sectors offer numerous jobs for both skilled and unskilled labor, with strong workforce development programs available through TSTC and MCC. The continued growth of the city, fueled by tourism and its strategic location, ensures a dynamic and expanding job market for the foreseeable future.

Sources: Waco Economic Development, Business in Texas. This information is based on publicly available data and is subject to change. For the most current job openings, it is recommended to consult online job boards and the websites of the companies listed.