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 Portland Fire are seeking amotivated, open-minded Assistant Athletic Trainerto join our performance team during an exciting phase of organizational growth. This role is ideal for an early-career professional who is curious, adaptable, and eager to learn within a progressive, collaborative, and athlete-centered environment. The Assistant Athletic Trainer will work closely with the Head Athletic Trainer, performance staff to provide front line medical care in the support of player health and availability.
WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
- Assist Head AT in the player training and match preparation, including strapping, manual therapy and injury prevention strategies.
- Where required, assist in injury evaluation and acute care.
- Under the guidance of RTP Specialist and Primary Care Sports Physician, execute RTP directives in team training environments. Support Head AT in preparing supplements for players pre/post practices and games.
- Support sport science processes, including collection of player screening data and GPS information.
- Maintain accurate medical documentation and injury reports in compliance with WNBA policies.
- Assist with medical logistics, supplies, and equipment organization.
- Involvement in athlete medical onboarding and screening.
- Participate in emergency action planning and league compliance requirements.
- Engage in continuing education and professional development opportunities
- Contribute ideas and perspectives within a multidisciplinary performance environment.
- Embrace feedback and mentorship within a fast-paced professional sports setting.
- Contribute positively to team culture and daily operations.
WHAT IT TAKES:
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Athletic Training or related field
- BOC certification and eligibility for OR state licensure
- CPR/AED certification
- Willingness to travel extensively and work non-traditional hours
Preferred Qualifications
- 1-2 years of experience in collegiate, professional, or elite sport settings
- Exposure to interdisciplinary performance or sports medicine models
- Interest in movement-based rehabilitation, performance integration, or holistic athlete care
- Data management and sports science skills
- Experience working with female athletes (preferred but not required)
Key Competencies
- Early in their professional career but highly motivated and growth-oriented
- Open-minded, adaptable, and eager to learn within a collaborative environment
- Comfortable working in ambiguity and helping build systems as the organization evolves
- Passionate about women’s sports and athlete-centered care
- A strong communicator who values teamwork and relationships
BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives, salary range $65-$80K
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- Dynamic, collaborative and fun work environment
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.
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter outlining how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate for this role.
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