Employers in Portland, OR area that provide part-time employees with health care?

Question

Starbucks is the first one that comes to mind. I've heard there are quite a few large retailers who offer part-time employees health care - Target, Fred Meyer, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, The Container Store, J. Crew. True?

How do you get on the 20+ hour track at these places, so you can qualify for benefits? That's assuming 20 hours is usually the required minimum. I would imagine these companies do what they can to keep a number of employees under the 20 hour mark. If I'm applying because of the health benefits, do I mention I'm interested in benefits during the interview? That doesn't seem smart.

What about other companies that offer health care to part-time employees? After working full-time office jobs for several years, it would be nice not to have to work retail again. But I doubt there are many offices that offer health care for part time work. I know some temp agencies often offer benefits to part-time workers, but I don't know if temping will work for me right now.

Answer 1

My Fiance works for Fred Meyer as a 20+ hour/ week employee with health benefits.  Unless you have special schedule restrictions most of their part time is a minimum of 20 hours per week.  He has been there over a year now and has moved up fast both in position and pay.  I would suggest not mentioning your need for benefits in the interview; however, it is appropriate to emphasize the need to have at least 20 hours each week.  Also, focus on your qualifications and skills let them know how you will benefit them.  From my experience Freddies takes really good care of their employees.  The benefits are great and not very expensive for the employee.

I do not have personal experience with the others, but a friend of mine used to work for Trader Joe's and she said they were really good to her too, she only left to pursue a different career.

I would stay away from temp agencies unless you are doing a temp to hire situation for a full time position.  Benefits offered by a temp agency are often sparse and very expensive.  On top of that if for some reason they don't have a position for you for a few weeks your benefits will lapse and you will have to fight to get them back.

Your best bet would be to put in applications everywhere and send in resumes.  You can always ask what the benefit situation is when they offer the position and if it doesn't meet your needs you are not obligated to accept the position.