#seattle

Undead Labs has announced significant layoffs following its transition to an independent, employee-owned studio. The studio stated that many talented developers who contributed to the State of Decay franchise are departing. This difficult decision was made as the company moves forward with its new ownership structure. Undead Labs expressed gratitude for the departing employees' contributions and hopes the industry will recognize their talent. The studio is now focused on creating games and maintaining community support.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.vgchartz.com/article/469165/state-of-decay-3-dev-undead-labs-hit-with-significant-layoffs/

Expedia Group is laying off 58 employees in Washington state. These reductions are expected to occur between November 21 and December 1. The affected roles include positions in technology, product, and corporate departments. This move follows previous layoffs and a broader restructuring driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. The company is streamlining operations and reorganizing its teams.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/expedia-group-laying-off-58-employees-in-washington-state-in-latest-cuts-at-travel-giant/

Independent game studio Heart Machine has laid off nearly its entire staff following the withdrawal of publisher funding for an unannounced project. Founder Alx Preston expressed uncertainty about the studio's future survival. This marks the third round of layoffs for the company since late 2025. The situation highlights the precarious nature of publisher-dependent development in the current industry climate. This event contributes to a significant year for job losses in the gaming sector.

Seattle, Washington

https://shattered.io/heart-machine-hyper-light-drifter-layoffs-2026/

Smaller, frequent layoffs are impacting Seattle's technology industry, contributing to a significant slowdown. These consistent reductions are quietly eroding the economic foundation that has driven the city's expansion. State filings reveal numerous layoff announcements affecting local workers throughout the year. The cumulative effect of these cuts is a notable decrease in information sector jobs. This trend signals a substantial shift for the traditionally high-growth tech industry.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.axios.com/local/seattle/2026/09/21/seattle-tech-sector-job-losses-information-employment-2026

https://esd.wa.gov/employer-requirements/layoffs-and-employee-notifications/worker-adjustment-and-retraining-notification-warn-layoff-and-closure-database?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Number Of Employees packing bags - 359

Oracle has announced plans to lay off 359 employees in Washington state. These job cuts are scheduled to begin on November 13. This follows a previous announcement of 475 layoffs in the Seattle area back in June. The technology sector in Seattle and Western Washington has experienced significant workforce reductions recently. Microsoft also announced substantial layoffs earlier this year.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.king5.com/article/money/business/oracle-layoff-359-washington-workers-834-total-2026/281-0f030ec0-0062-4fba-9482-aba6be479a66

Amazon is reportedly ending its lease on an 81,000-square-foot office in South Lake Union. This move is part of the company's ongoing reduction of its physical office space. The tech giant's Seattle workforce has decreased since the pandemic. Amazon has also conducted significant layoffs in recent years. The company is reevaluating its office needs and shifting employees to other locations.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.seattletimes.com/business/amazon/amazon-plans-to-shed-another-seattle-office-next-year-report-shows/

Seattle's average commute time has significantly decreased, ranking third nationally. This improvement is primarily attributed to the rise of remote work and a substantial decline in public transit usage. In 2019, 25% of residents used transit, dropping to 15% by 2024. The article notes that solo drivers now average 26.5 minutes, while transit riders take 49.5 minutes. This trend contrasts with Sound Transit's efforts to increase ridership amidst budget concerns.

Seattle, Washington

https://seattlered.com/watch/seattle-ranks-3rd-in-america-for-shrinking-commutes-heres-why/01a08bb4-3c00-8008-f0fa-136d5b56ae80

Seattle's mayor has initiated a plan to lessen the city's dependence on major technology companies. A commissioned report revealed that the city's tax revenue is overly concentrated in a few large businesses. This initiative aims to broaden the economic base and reduce this reliance. The goal is to create a more resilient and varied local economy. This effort is a direct response to the findings of the economic development office.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2026/09/09/mayor-katie-wilson-business-community-amazon.html

Seattle's mayor has established a new task force to address the city's current economic challenges. This initiative aims to support local businesses in starting, remaining, and expanding within the city. The task force will explore strategies to strengthen the economy and foster resilience. Its creation comes amid concerns about tech layoffs, office vacancies, and shifting regional growth patterns. The mayor emphasized the city's "fragile moment" and the need for collaborative solutions.

Seattle, Washington

https://komonews.com/news/local/seattle-mayor-katie-wilson-g-n-violence-economy-bellevue-consulting-organization-economic-assessment-tech-layoffs-2027-175-million-businesses-public-safety

Acclaimed virtual reality developer Polyarc Games has officially shut down after nearly twelve years in business. The Seattle-based studio confirmed its closure on September 11, 2026, impacting 29 employees. This follows a significant layoff in March 2026 after a major project lost its funding. Polyarc was best known for its award-winning Moss series. The studio's final release was a non-VR version of its catalog.

Seattle, Washington

https://tech-insider.org/moss-polyarc-games-shutdown-2026/

Uber has eliminated 93 positions in its Seattle operations. These layoffs impact roles in software engineering, sales, and management. The company is undertaking these reductions to streamline its structure. This move also signifies a strategic shift in the company's focus.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2026/09/03/uber-companywide-layoffs-dara-khosrowshahi.html

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families implemented layoffs affecting approximately 11% of staff at the Echo Glen juvenile detention facility. These reductions occurred in late June and early July, impacting around 30 employees out of a total of 277. The facility houses young offenders and has a history of significant issues, including a violent escape in 2023 and high staff turnover. Layoffs are part of a new staffing model intended to reallocate Juvenile Rehabilitation Counselors to case management. Internal communications reveal disputes and frustrations among teams involved in the layoff process.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_d35db3e8-b63a-43c7-ab6a-2901f90a1d03.html

Software firm Qualtrics has eliminated 117 positions at its Seattle location. These layoffs follow the company's recent acquisition of Press Ganey Forsta. Employees were notified of the cuts on August 19th, with their last day being October 18th. The company stated these decisions were made to integrate operations and create a unified team. This action is part of a broader restructuring effort to eliminate duplicate roles.

Seattle, Washington

http://www.chronline.com/stories/software-maker-qualtrics-cuts-117-jobs-in-seattle,407566?

Uber is implementing significant layoffs, impacting 93 employees in Washington state. These cuts are part of a broader global restructuring affecting approximately 10% of the company's workforce. The majority of affected positions are in the Seattle engineering hub and regional remote roles. This action aims to streamline management and reduce operational layers. The company will provide affected staff with full pay and benefits through a 60-day notice period.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/uber-laying-off-93-washington-state-workers-hitting-engineer-and-management-roles-at-seattle-office/

Amazon is permanently laying off 121 employees across multiple Washington state locations. These cuts impact various roles, from entry-level positions to vice president-level executives. The company is providing affected workers with 90 days to seek internal transfers. These layoffs are part of a larger trend of workforce reductions by Amazon. The company is significantly increasing its investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Seattle, Bellevue, Sumner

https://hoodline.com/2026/08/amazon-cuts-121-more-jobs-in-seattle-bellevue-as-ai-spending-hits-220-billion/

The Seattle area is experiencing a significant change in its job market, moving away from its tech dominance. Healthcare and frontline services are now driving job growth, while tech and science positions have seen a decline. This restructuring is impacting the regional labor force, with some tech workers seeking opportunities in other fields. The shift is attributed to various factors, including hiring in essential services and a decrease in tech-specific roles. Experts emphasize the need for awareness regarding these widespread economic changes.

https://www.kuow.org/economy/2026-07-22/seattle-area-hiring-is-undergoing-a-drastic-change

Qualtrics has initiated job cuts across its global operations following its recent acquisition of Press Ganey Forsta. The company cited duplication of roles between the two independently built organizations as the reason for the reductions. These layoffs are impacting employees at its dual headquarters in Seattle and Provo, Utah, as well as international offices. While the exact number of affected employees has not been disclosed, a WARN notice indicates at least 50 jobs were cut at the Seattle headquarters. CEO Jason Maynard stated these decisions were necessary to function as a single, unified team.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/qualtrics-cuts-jobs-in-seattle-utah-and-overseas-as-it-absorbs-6-75b-acquisition/

A new report indicates Seattle's housing market is experiencing a significant slowdown. This decline is attributed to widespread layoffs within the tech industry, creating buyer uncertainty. Pending home sales have dropped sharply, reflecting a cautious approach from potential homeowners. Despite a slight price decrease, the median home price remains very high. The tech sector's instability is a primary driver of this market sluggishness.

Seattle, Washington

https://seattlered.com/housing/seattle-area-housing-market-slows-as-tech-layoffs-create-uncertainty-report/4119798

Starbucks has closed another downtown Seattle location. This closure follows a series of layoffs and store shutdowns across Washington state. The company cited a need to improve the physical environment and financial performance of its stores. These actions are part of a broader strategy to focus on core business operations. The company is also relocating corporate jobs to a new office in Nashville.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/starbucks-shutters-another-seattle-store-closures-layoffs-mount/B2GEPRHF2BFLJKCTRFEHTH2NIQ/?outputType=amp

Starbucks has closed another downtown Seattle location, marking a continuation of recent store closures and layoffs. The company has been strategically reducing its footprint, citing a need to align store environments with customer and partner expectations and to improve financial performance. These closures have been accompanied by significant workforce reductions across various levels of the organization. The company is also shifting some corporate operations to a new office in Nashville. These moves have drawn criticism from former CEO Howard Schultz regarding the business climate in Seattle.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/starbucks-shutters-another-seattle-store-closures-layoffs-mount/B2GEPRHF2BFLJKCTRFEHTH2NIQ/

Salesforce is implementing another round of job cuts in Washington state. The enterprise software company is eliminating 59 positions across various tech roles. These layoffs affect employees in both Seattle and Bellevue. This marks the third set of reductions for Salesforce this year. The company acquired Tableau in 2019.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/salesforce-cutting-59-jobs-across-seattle-and-bellevue-offices/

Halo Studios has recently undergone layoffs following the release of its latest title, Halo: Campaign Evolved. Several employees have publicly announced their departures on LinkedIn, indicating a significant reduction in staff. These announcements come shortly after the game's launch, which marked the franchise's debut on a Sony PlayStation platform. The gaming industry is currently experiencing a challenging job market, contributing to these workforce adjustments. The studio has not yet released an official statement regarding the exact number of affected employees.

Seattle, Washington

https://insider-gaming.com/halo-studios-hit-by-layoffs-after-campaign-evolved-launch/

The coffee giant has again increased its annual sales and profit projections, signaling a strong recovery. CEO Brian Niccol's strategic initiatives have successfully revitalized customer demand for the company. This positive performance has led to a notable increase in the company's stock value. Starbucks is now anticipating higher global same-store sales growth and improved earnings per share. The company's focus remains on operational improvements and cost management.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.klsescreener.com/v2/news/view/1764571/starbucks-raises-annual-forecasts-again-as-turnaround-takes-root

Amazon has implemented further targeted layoffs within its artificial general intelligence division. The company confirmed the job cuts but did not specify the number of employees affected. This move comes as Amazon continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence development. The affected unit focuses on AI models, silicon, and quantum computing. Amazon has been undergoing a series of workforce reductions following a period of significant hiring.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/22/amazon-lays-off-some-employees-in-its-agi-unit.html

A little more detail on impact in Seattle,WA market; 54 employees https://www.seattletimes.com/business/verizon-to-lay-off-54-wa-employees/

Amazon has recently implemented significant layoffs. These job cuts are occurring within a competitive and saturated employment landscape. The company's actions are contributing to a challenging environment for job seekers. This situation highlights broader trends in the technology and logistics sectors. The full impact of these reductions is still unfolding.

Seattle, Washington

https://theloadstar.com/cnbc-amazon-layoffs-take-their-toll-in-saturated-job-market/

Amazon Web Services (AWS) employees were impacted by a large layoff round in early 2026. Amazon cut 16,000 corporate jobs, affecting AWS staff in the U.S. and Canada. Despite these reductions, AWS made significant advancements in artificial intelligence. The company secured major deals with Anthropic and OpenAI, investing billions in AI infrastructure. AWS also launched numerous new AI products and partner incentives this year.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.crn.com/news/cloud/2026/top-10-aws-news-stories-of-2026-openai-layoffs-and-ai-innovation

The KCRHA will experience major funding reductions. The KCRHA budget will shrink by nearly 80%. This follows financial management issues and policy control failures. Around 30 KCRHA staff members face layoffs. Local authorities are reclaiming $160 million in homeless services contracts.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/regional-homelessness-authority-will-have-budget-slashed-by-75-layoffs-after-financial-issues/EWCZYKN7X5F5JLTQXMTBWS756A/

Seattle-based customer data startup Amperity conducted layoffs this week. The company confirmed the workforce reduction was due to an AI-driven transformation. Amperity did not specify the exact number of affected employees. This shift changes where the company is investing and the team's structure. The layoffs follow co-founders recently taking on co-CEO roles to focus on AI opportunities.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/amperity-hit-with-layoffs-as-ai-changes-the-shape-of-the-customer-data-startup-and-how-it-operates/

First Student Inc. will lay off 111 employees in Seattle. The company filed a WARN notice regarding these job cuts. Approximately 60% of its Lake City Way operations will cease. The affected workers include 107 bus drivers and 3 technicians. Layoffs are scheduled to begin on August 17.

Seattle, Washington

https://komonews.com/news/local/seattle-schools-bus-drivers-first-student-lays-off-over-100-bus-drivers-lake-city-way-bus-technician-employee-operations-summer-school

Seattle Public Schools faces an $87 million budget shortfall. Superintendent Ben Shuldiner stated that "everything is on the table" to address the deficit. Potential measures include layoffs and school closures. The district plans to reorganize its central office and not fill vacancies. Declining student enrollment also contributes to the financial challenges.

Seattle

https://komonews.com/news/local/seattle-public-schools-last-day-class-sps-superintendent-ben-shuldiner-87m-budget-gap-shortfall-safety-student-enrollment-drop-possible-layoffs

Catering company Lavish Roots issued a statement regarding a WARN filing. The filing affected 263 employees across four facilities. Lavish Roots clarified it is not closing its doors. The action stems from a major client transitioning to a global vendor. The company plans to expand its services and footprint in the Seattle area.

Burien, Washington

https://b-townblog.com/b-town-biz-burien-based-lavish-roots-says-it-is-expanding-not-closing-despite-warn-filing-affecting-263-workers/

A superyacht linked to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg arrived in Seattle. The vessel, named "Launchpad," drew crowds in South Lake Union. Its arrival followed Meta's announcement of 1,400 layoffs in Washington state. Some observers criticized the yacht's presence during this period. Others viewed the large vessel as a tourist attraction.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/zuckerberg-superyacht-draws-crowds-seattle-meta-layoffs/281-efc3e24b-894e-436d-a303-f821313508df

Meta announced 1,395 layoffs in the Seattle area on May 20. These cuts affect approximately 20% of the company's Washington workforce. The layoffs are part of Meta's strategy to offset significant AI investments. Affected employees include technical writers, data scientists, and engineers. Their last day of employment is expected to be July 22, 2026.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/1400-seattle-meta-jobs-layoffs

Starbucks announced 252 corporate job cuts in Seattle. These layoffs impact vice presidents, directors, and senior managers. The company stated cuts will sharpen focus and lower costs. Separations are expected from July 17 through February 1, 2027. Starbucks is also closing some regional support offices.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.geekwire.com/2026/starbucks-layoffs-impact-252-jobs-at-seattle-support-center-including-vps-and-other-senior-roles/

Starbucks announced another round of corporate layoffs. The company will cut 300 U.S. jobs. It also plans to shutter some regional support offices. These actions are part of its ongoing turnaround strategy. The moves will result in $400 million in restructuring charges.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/15/starbucks-to-lay-off-300-us-employees-close-some-regional-offices.html

Washington state recorded the second-highest number of tech worker layoffs nationally. Over 11,000 tech employees lost jobs between May 2025 and April 2026. This data comes from Revelio Labs research shared with KUOW. Amazon, Oracle, and Meta were major contributors to these job cuts. A slowdown in tech hiring is also a significant trend.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.kuow.org/stories/washington-state-tech-layoffs-are-second-highest-in-the-country

Starbucks is laying off 61 corporate tech workers in Seattle. This action results from a technology department reorganization. Affected roles include project managers and systems administrators. The layoffs are scheduled to begin on June 20. All impacted employees will be separated by August 28.

Seattle, Washington

https://www.seattletimes.com/business/starbucks/starbucks-lays-off-61-tech-workers-in-seattle/

Starbucks laid off today (not relocated to Nashville) 61 tech jobs in their Tech Support Center. AI continues to claim the tech industry in the greater Seattle area. Even less places for the laid off Seattle Tech Support folks to go.