Top 10 Employers in the Greater Memphis Metro Area

The Memphis metro area is home to some of the most influential employers in the Mid-South. From global logistics giants to nationally ranked healthcare systems and research institutions, these organizations shape the economic landscape of the region. Whether you're seeking opportunities in transportation, healthcare, education, or finance, these top 10 Memphis-area employers represent the pillars of the city’s diverse and thriving job market.

1. FedEx Corporation

Headquartered in Memphis, FedEx is the region’s largest private employer with over 30,000 local employees. It serves as a global leader in logistics, shipping, and freight, with its SuperHub at Memphis International Airport being one of the busiest air cargo facilities in the world.

2. Shelby County Schools

The largest public school district in Tennessee, Shelby County Schools employs approximately 16,000 teachers, administrators, and staff, serving over 100,000 students. The district plays a crucial role in regional education and workforce development.

3. Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare

This nonprofit hospital system includes several medical centers and specialty hospitals throughout the metro. With around 14,000 employees, it is one of the top healthcare providers and employers in the region.

4. Baptist Memorial Health Care

Baptist Memorial operates a network of hospitals, clinics, and specialty services across the Mid-South, employing approximately 11,500 people. Its main Memphis hospital is one of the largest in the area.

5. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Internationally renowned for pediatric cancer research and treatment, St. Jude employs over 5,000 scientists, healthcare providers, and staff. It offers cutting-edge medical research careers and community impact opportunities.

6. First Horizon National Corporation

One of the region’s largest banks, First Horizon is headquartered in Memphis and employs over 6,000 people in financial services, operations, and customer support across its branches and offices.

7. AutoZone, Inc.

Founded in Memphis, AutoZone is a Fortune 500 retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories. It employs over 6,000 people locally in its corporate headquarters and distribution operations.

8. International Paper

A global leader in paper and packaging products, International Paper has its headquarters in Memphis and employs between 2,000 and 6,000 people in corporate, manufacturing, and engineering roles.

9. University of Memphis

As the region’s largest public university, the University of Memphis employs more than 2,600 faculty and staff, offering a wide range of careers in education, research, and student services.

10. Smith & Nephew

This global medical technology company has its U.S. orthopedics headquarters in Memphis, employing over 2,000 people in manufacturing, R&D, and administrative positions.

These employers form the backbone of the Memphis metro economy, offering stable, well-paying jobs and career advancement across a wide range of sectors. If you're considering relocating, job hunting, or exploring economic opportunities in the region, these organizations are great places to start.