Career Coaching
in Dover

Employment Landscape

Dover’s job market is anchored by its role as the state capital, with steady employment from state government—particularly as more than a thousand state staff are housed downtown—combined with institutional anchors like Bayhealth whose recent $600 million hospital campus expansion is generating healthcare roles and longer-term planning projects. Retail employment remains in transition following the Dover Mall’s cinema closure in early 2024 and loss of Macy’s fulfillment center by the end of 2023; new tenants like Furniture & More and Portabella have replaced some vacancies, but retail hiring remains cautious. Solo entrepreneurship is notably strong—local solopreneurs are seeing the highest post‑expense profits in the U.S., supported by zero sales tax, low costs, and business incentives that underpin freelance and small‑business growth. Downtown revitalization under the Capital City 2030 plan is underway, with over $25 million in public funding and private investment aimed at new mixed‑use development, infrastructure, and mobility—creating construction and service‑sector openings, though many are still emerging and competitive.

Dominant Industries

Typical Roles

Hiring Patterns

Hiring in Dover reflects modest growth tied to healthcare expansion and public redevelopment projects. State employment remains stable, healthcare roles are increasing, and there is a surge in freelance and solo‑founded opportunities. Retail employment is adjusting, with new tenants moving in but consumer demand still uncertain.

"Looking for work in Dover means balancing steady government and hospital hiring with a growing chance to go solo—but retail options are shrinking, and competition is real."