Special Report

America's Best Companies to Work For

Thomas C. Frohlich, Michael B. Sauter, Evan Comen, Samuel Stebbins

Published: July 14, 2016 4:16 pm

Last Updated: January 13, 2020 5:42 am

Americans work 34.4 hours per week on average, spending more time at work than employees of any other developed country in the world. Employed full-time, the average U.S. adult works 47 hours per week. And, according to a recent Gallup poll, 18% of American workers report working at least 60 hours per week. With such grueling hours, job satisfaction is of the utmost importance.

While happy employees are by no means the norm in the United States, there are of course numerous companies which are very highly regarded by their workers. 24/7 Wall St. examined thousands of reviews on job review website Glassdoor to determine the best companies to work for in America. Bain & Company leads the nation, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5.0. The average rating on Glassdoor is 3.2. All 58 companies on this list have earned a rating of at least 3.8 from their employees.

It should come as no surprise that many of the happiest employees are well paid. In the case of demanding consulting and technology jobs at companies such as PwC or Google, employees are paid some of the highest salaries in the country. At other companies, including wholesale warehouse club Costco, employees are paid hourly and not especially well compared to all occupations. However, Costco and other retailers and restaurants on the list pay very competitive salaries by industry standards, and mostly offer relatively generous benefit packages.

Click here to see America’s best companies to work for.

However, research has shown that a decent salary is only a partial driver to workplace satisfaction. Four in every five workers would prefer benefits such as medical insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans over a pay raise, according to a recent Glassdoor survey.

Compared to many other high income nations where these benefits are provided by the central government, American workers are far less likely to have health insurance and retirement plans. The United States is also one of the only developed countries without guaranteed paid time off — even China requires paid time off for its workers by law. At these companies at least, the perks are excellent.

The best companies to work for also tend to be financially successful. It may be that happy employees help improve the bottom line or that success breeds a better work environment. In any case, working for a profitable company improves the likelihood that employees will be offered professional opportunities since resources are available to invest in the workforce.

Profits and job satisfaction are directly related at some of these companies. A number of the best companies to work for offer, in addition to traditional benefits, a profit sharing program. At Delta Air Lines, for example, employees are awarded bonuses at the end of each year based on the performance of the company. Procter & Gamble, which has the oldest profit sharing program in the country, is another notable example. Many Delta and P&G employees feel motivated by the profit sharing program and cite it as one of the major advantages to working at the company.

In order to determine America’s best companies to work for, 24/7 Wall St. independently reviewed employee ratings and testimonials on Glassdoor – this is not a Glassdoor.com commissioned report – retrieved on July 6, 2016. Among the more than 400 companies and organizations reviewed, 24/7 Wall St. identified the 58 businesses that received the highest overall ratings. Employee satisfaction is measured by Glassdoor on a scale of 1.0 to 5.0, where 1.0 is very dissatisfied and 5.0 is very satisfied. To be considered, a company had to have at least 1,000 reviews and an average rating of 3.8 or higher. When two or more companies had the same review score, the company with more employee reviews was ranked higher. Government agencies as well as nonprofit companies were excluded from our analysis. Employee totals and revenue figures are for the most recent fiscal year available. Sources include company documents and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings. For companies that do not provide data, Forbes estimates were used. For companies reporting revenue in foreign currencies, we converted the revenue into U.S. dollars based on the effective exchange rate at the end of the company’s fiscal year.

These are the best companies to work for in America.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

58. InterContinental Hotels Group (NYSE: IHG)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Richard Solomons)
> Industry: Lodging
> Revenue: $24.0 billion
> Employees: 350,000

With more than 5,000 hotels in close to 100 countries, InterContinental Hotels Group is one of the world’s largest hotel companies. InterContinental is behind such hotel brands as Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, and Candlewood Suites, and it employs an estimated 350,000 people.

Employees submitting reviews regularly praise the company for its competitive pay, great work environment, and policies that ensure work-life balance. IHG offers paid vacation, which some employees cite as being flexible and easy to schedule on short notice. Employees also receive discounted rates for friends and family at IHG hotels around the world.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

57. Autodesk (NASDAQ: ADSK)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 87% (Carl Bass)
> Industry: Technical and system software
> Revenue: $2.5 billion
> Employees: 9,500

Autodesk is a software company specializing in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software. The company began in 1982 with the release of its flagship product, AutoCAD, which became the become the standard software used by architects and engineers.

The company offers its workforce a number of unique benefits. Autodesk employees are given a six-week paid sabbatical every four years and travel to places such as Paris, Thailand, Hawaii, and Rome. Employees are also eligible to accrue “Autobucks” as rewards for a special effort. Autobucks can be awarded in cash or non-cash items such as dinners, theater tickets, or trips. Autodesk also offers adoption assistance, and will reimburse employees up to $5,000 per child.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

56. Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: EA)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 92% (Andrew Wilson)
> Industry: Entertainment Software
> Revenue: $4.4 billion
> Employees: 3,300 (U.S. employees)

Based on more than 1,300 reviews, a job at Electronic Arts is one of the best is in the country. The company culture appears to cater to fun-loving personalities. One in one positive review, an employee cited the perks of the job, which include ski trips to Vermont and company parties at high-end venues such as the Waldorf Astoria and MoMA.

While the company has its perks, salaries are not especially high at Electronic Arts. A software engineer at EA can expect to make roughly $92,000 a year, slightly less than the average $95,000 salary for a similar position across the industry.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

55. J. Crew
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 93% (Mickey Drexler)
> Industry: Retail
> Revenue: $2.5 billion
> Employees: 15,600

Other than Nike, J. Crew is the only retailer among the best companies to work for. Employees commonly cite a positive work environment and a generous employee discount as major benefits of working at the company. According to employee reviews, workers can purchase J. Crew merchandise for up to 50% off retail value and buy slow-selling items for even less.

One reason for J. Crew’s ranking above nearly all retailers may be the company’s flexibility about time off. Employees cite flexible hours as one of the primary benefits to working at J. Crew.

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Source: Wikimedia Commons

54. Medtronic (NYSE: MDT)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 93% (Omar Ishrak)
> Industry: Medical appliances and equipment
> Revenue: $28.8 billion
> Employees: 88,000

Medtronic employees commonly cite a positive work environment, good health care benefits, and the ability to achieve a work-life balance as major advantages of working at the company. Medtronic offers reimbursements for life expenses such as college tuition, child adoption, and child support.

In January 2015, Medtronic completed its acquisition of medical device maker Covidien. The resultant company is the largest medical device manufacturer in the world. Some employees reviewing the company have complained about bureaucratic inefficiencies within the company, and the merger may not help matters.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

53. Pfizer (NYSE: PFE)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 86% (Ian Read)
> Industry: Drug manufacturer
> Revenue: $48.9 billion
> Employees: 97,900

One of the world’s leading drug companies, Pfizer is behind such medicines as Lyrica, Lipitor, and Viagra. Pfizer has also apparently managed to foster a favorable environment for its employees. Workers reviewing the company commonly praise the Pfizer’s high pay, benefits, and support of work-life balance. While employees at other such large companies can sometimes feel alienated, many Glassdoor reviewers cite Pfizer’s substantial size as a benefit of working at the company. Current and former employees on Glassdoor rate Pfizer 3.8 stars on average — among the highest of any company with at least 1,000 reviews.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

52. Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 88% (Bob Iger)
> Industry: Entertainment
> Revenue: $52.5 billion
> Employees: 185,000

Mass media conglomerate The Walt Disney Company owns and operates media networks, theme parks and resorts, film studios, and various consumer products and interactive media. Disney’s networks include the Disney Channel, ABC, and ESPN, and its entertainment studio division includes Walt Disney Studios, Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm.

While the company operates across various media and entertainment platforms, a bulk of reviews on Glassdoor are from reviewers working at Disney’s parks and resorts. Employees of the parks who submitted reviews, called cast members, enjoy working in the magical environment that Disney has created. Many cast members cite their “fun” coworkers and the “happy” parks’ guests as the primary benefit of the job.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

51. VMware (NYSE: VMW)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 84% (Pat Gelsinger)
> Industry: Technical and system software
> Revenue: $6.6 billion
> Employees: 19,000

Founded in 1998, VMware is a technology company specializing in cloud infrastructure and business mobility. In reviews, employee of VMware commonly cite their intelligent coworkers and exposure to the latest technology as primary benefits of working at the company. The company offers its employees unlimited vacation time as well as the option to work from home.

Employees also note the corporate campus as a major reason why VMware is a great place to work. The company’s headquarters, where about one-quarter of VMware employees work, is located on a forested, 105-acre campus in Silicon Valley. The campus has 1,500 trees, a hair salon, and offers massage therapy, fitness classes, free food throughout the day, among other perks.

Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/erikeldridge/

50. Intuit (NASDAQ: INTU)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 94% (Brad Smith)
> Industry: Application software
> Revenue: $4.2 billion
> Employees: 7,700

Intuit was founded in 1983. The software company’s flagship products — QuickBooks, TurboTax, and Mint — have become industry standards in personal financial management. On its site, Intuit claims to foster innovation by encouraging its employees to spend 10% of their time on projects unrelated to their jobs. Employees giving positive reviews of the company commonly identify generous benefits, the ability to maintain a work-life balance, and the ability to work from home as major advantages to working at Intuit.

LIke many of the best companies to work for, the company’s CEO is much admired. Brad Smith has a 94% approval rating on Glassdoor, far better than the 68% average CEO approval rating for all companies.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

49. Publix
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 83% (Todd Jones)
> Industry: Food markets
> Revenue: $32.6 billion
> Employees: 180,000

Supermarkets are often regional, and as a result, customers shop often at a given location more out of necessity than choice. Many people living in the Southeastern United States can take advantage of the more than 1,100 Publix locations throughout the region. The supermarket chain, based in Lakeland, Florida, regularly ranks among the best grocery stores in the country.

Not only do shoppers rank the company high, but employees do as well. Publix is one of only a handful companies with a 3.8 rating on Glassdoor. Satisfied employees reviewing the company regularly cite good management and competitive benefits.

Source: Wikimedia Common

48. Marriott (NASDAQ: MAR)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Arne Sorenson)
> Industry: Lodging
> Revenue: $14.5 billion
> Employees: 127,500

Marriott operates or franchises about 4,500 hotels around the world through chains such as Courtyard, Fairfield, and Ritz-Carlton. Last year, the Bethesda, Maryland-based company reported revenues of $14.5 billion. Revenues are likely to increase substantially now that Marriott and Starwood Hotels, which owns the Westin, Sheraton, and W brands, have agreed to a $13.6 billion merger.

Based on Glassdoor reviews, many employees are satisfied with their jobs. The company claims to actively promote from within. This strategy may have contributed to the fact that close to a third of the company’s U.S. employees have been employed at Marriott for at least a decade.

Source: Wikimedia Common

47. Fidelity Investments
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 94% (Abby Johnson)
> Industry: Finance
> Revenue: $14.9 billion
> Employees: 42,000

Financial services firm Fidelity Investments provides 401(k) retirement plan services to 12 million U.S. workers across thousands of companies. The company also provides retirement savings for its own employees. After working for one year at Fidelity Investments, the company will contribute up to 10% of employees’ compensation into their 401(k) accounts as part of a profit sharing plan. Many employees cite Fidelity’s profit sharing contributions as a major benefit of working at the company. Employees also identify work-life balance and a positive work environment as other benefits of working at Fidelity. Fidelity Investments is the only financial services company among the best companies to work for.

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Source: Wikimedia Commons

46. Kaiser Permanente
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Bernard Tyson)
> Industry: Healthcare
> Revenue: $60.7 billion
> Employees: 189,302

Health care services provider Kaiser Permanente operates a number of hospitals, as well as a health insurance plan which serves more than 10 million Americans. The company’s employees are among the most satisfied of any major American company, and Kaiser Permanente’s health programs may be a significant part of this. In 2007, the company started its Healthy Workforce program, which incentivizes and tracks exercise and healthy diets. The National Business Group on Health has regularly named Kaiser Permanente one of the Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles.

Employee satisfaction among Kaiser Permanente employees is likely tied to the company’s leadership. Bernard Tyson, who became company CEO in 2013, has a 90% approval rating on Glassdoor.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

45. EMC (NYSE: EMC)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 88% (Joe Tucci)
> Industry: Data storage devices
> Revenue: $24.7 billion
> Employees: 72,000

EMC is an information technology company specializing in cloud computing services for businesses. Employees on Glassdoor cite the company’s numerous perks, high salaries, work environment, and ability to work from home as major advantages to working at EMC. A few of the company’s perks include on-site cafeterias and fitness centers, college admission coaching for children, and cash reimbursement for gym memberships.

In 2015, EMC agreed to be acquired by privately held computer company Dell. As the merger moves closer to completion, with several regulatory bodies already approving the deal, many employees wonder how the deal will impact company management.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

44. GE (NYSE: GE)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 87% (Jeffrey Immelt)
> Industry: Diversified machinery
> Revenue: $117.4 billion
> Employees: 125,000 (U.S. employees)

General Electric, a multinational conglomerate operating in a number of sectors, is one of the nation’s oldest and largest companies. Founded in 1892, GE now employs approximately 333,000 people worldwide and has more than 200 plants in 40 states. GE’s total headcount increased considerably in its fiscal 2015 from 305,000 in 2014.

The company appears to be well loved by many of its employees. In favorable reviews of the company on Glassdoor, employees frequently cited a healthy work-life balance, above-average compensation, and a competitive work environment with plenty of opportunities for advancement.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

43. KPMG
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 93% (Lynne Doughtie)
> Industry: Business services and supplies
> Revenue: $24.4 billion
> Employees: 173,965

KPMG is one of the Big Four accounting and auditing firms. The company employs nearly 174,000 employees, and it has member firms in 155 countries.

Employees write on Glassdoor reviews that KPMG is a great place to start a career and learn the accounting business. The accounting industry has high employee turnover rate, at 15% to 20% of the workforce on average each year at the Big Four firms. At KPMG, however, employee turnover, according to Fortune, is a relatively low 13%.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

42. Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 93% (Chuck Robbins)
> Industry: Networking and communication devices
> Revenue: $49.2 billion
> Employees: 71,833

Networking and IT corporation Cisco Systems employs more than 70,000 people around the world, about half of whom are in the United States. The San Francisco-based company’s operations are quite diversified. Since it was founded in 1984, Cisco has acquired roughly 180 companies.

Cisco’s high employee approval rating may stem in part from its apparent focus on work-life balance. The company’s Silicon Valley headquarters has a childcare facility with roughly 600 children on site. The company also allows thousands of employees to work from home.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

41. PwC
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: N/A
> Industry: Business services and supplies
> Revenue: $35.4 billion
> Employees: 208,109

The prestige that comes with working for one of the largest and most well-known consulting firms likely contributes to job satisfaction at accounting and legal giant PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, which rebranded in 2010 as PwC. The firm boasts hundreds of the world’s largest companies as among its clients. PwC employs over 200,000 people globally and reported revenue of $35.4 billion in its fiscal 2015.

Compensation for consulting work is often paid by commission, which can reward hard work but also often adds uncertainty and stress. While some complaints published on Glassdoor cite poor work-life balance and long hours, others have found a healthy work-life balance and appreciate the motivating professional environment.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

40. Starbucks (NASDAQ: SBUX)
> Rating: 3.8
> CEO approval rating: 89% (Howard Schultz)
> Industry: Coffee shops
> Revenue: $19.2 billion
> Employees: 175,000 (U.S. employees)

Employee satisfaction tends to be low in the food service industry, and Starbucks is the only eatery among the best companies to work for. Starbucks employees can take home a pound of coffee beans each week, and they receive discounts on drinks while both on and off shift. Employees can also receive tuition reimbursement for two full years of college through an online studies program with Arizona State University. Benefits are available to both full- and part-time workers. Many employees on Glassdoor cite the generous benefits given to part-time workers and the free coffee as major advantages to working at the company.

Employee satisfaction at Starbucks may rise in the coming fall. Starting October 3, employees are slated to receive raises of between 5% to 15%, better health insurance, and more generous stock options.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

39. John Deere
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 95% (Samuel Allen)
> Industry: Heavy equipment
> Revenue: $28.9 billion
> Employees: 57,180

Founded nearly 180 years ago, John Deere is one of the largest and most recognized tractor and farm equipment companies in the country. Based in Moline, Illinois, the company employs close to 60,000 employees worldwide for its operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, China, Russia, and elsewhere.

Those positively reviewing the company on Glassdoor mostly cite a positive work-life balance as well as good pay and benefits. Product engineers, for example, list an annual average salary of $75,430, slightly higher than the national average of $74,000 for product engineers nationwide. Employees also praise the company’s health insurance, 401(k) plan, and pension plan. John Deere’s CEO has a 95% approval rating on Glassdoor as well.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

38. Stryker (NYSE: SYK)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Kevin Lobo)
> Industry: Medical appliances and equipment
> Revenue: $9.9 billion
> Employees: 27,000

Stryker is a developer and manufacturer of orthopedics, neurotechnology, and medical and surgical equipment. The company, which claims its ultimate mission is to improve the lives of hospital patients, also appears to improve the lives of its employees — or at least provide them with a favorable work environment, according to employee reviews on Glassdoor. Based on more than 1,000 reviews, employees gave the company and average rating of 3.9 stars, one of the highest ratings of all companies operating in the United States.

Positive reviews regularly laud the company for providing a great work environment, outstanding benefits, and a good work-life balance. Among the most popular benefit is the company’s 401(k) match program. Stryker matches employee 401(k) contributions up to 7% of their respective salary.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

37. Total Quality Logistics
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Kenneth Oaks)
> Industry: Logistics
> Revenue: $2.2 billion
> Employees: 3,200

Since its founding in 1997, Total Quality Logistics has grown to become the second largest freight brokerage firm in North America. The company employs approximately 3,200 workers, and reported $2.2 billion in revenue in fiscal 2015. Many TQL employees enjoy the company’s “work hard, play hard,” as one reviewer said, atmosphere and positive work environment.

According to CEO Kenneth Oaks, the high earnings potential at the company helps attracts new college grads. Entry-level sales associates earn commission and have an unlimited salary cap, which many employees cite as a major advantage to working at TQL. The average compensation for a second-year employee is $60,000, which becomes $81,000 in the fourth year, and $112,000 in the fifth year — all above the typical salary of a sales representative at other companies, according to the BLS.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

36. CDW (NASDAQ: CDW)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 94% (Thomas Richards)
> Industry: IT services
> Revenue: $13.0 billion
> Employees: 8,600

Formed in 1982, CDW has since grown to employ more than 5,000 people. The company provides technology solutions to business, government, education, and health care organizations. Sales are a large part of the company’s day-to-day operation. Many sales employees cite a positive work environment and the ability to earn a high salary as advantages to working at the company. Employees rate CDW 3.9 stars out of five on average, one of the highest scores of any U.S. company.

Employee satisfaction tends to be higher when they also approve of a company’s CEO. According to Glassdoor, 94% of CDW employees approve of CEO Thomas Richards, far higher the 68% average CEO approval rating across all companies.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

35. IKEA
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 92% (Peter Agnefjall)
> Industry: Retail
> Revenue: $36.3 billion
> Employees: 15,500

Swedish home furnishing store Ikea is known for its wide array of simple, inexpensive, and functional furniture and appliances. The company has more than 15,000 employees at various locations around the United States, and a total of over 125,000 employees around the world. As advantages to working at IKEA, employees cite the different benefits, including health benefits, vacation, and short-term and long-term disability.

According to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, Ikea provides an equal and fair working environment to all employees regardless of their gender or sexuality. The company received a perfect score on HRC’s 2016 Corporate Equality Index.

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Source: Wikimedia Commons

34. Trader Joe’s
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 73% (Dan Bane)
> Industry: Food markets
> Revenue: $9.4 billion
> Employees: N/A

With just a few hundred U.S. stores, supermarket chain Trader Joe’s is by no means the largest grocery store in the United States. However, it is owned by German-based discount supermarket chain Aldi Nord, which is one of the largest retailers in the world. Like Aldi’s discount stores, a very large share — about 70% — of Trader Joe’s sales are of private-label items. Stocking fewer, but perhaps more unusual, products is part of the chain’s cost-cutting strategy. Industry analysts often measure these savings against higher wages for lower-level employees, which may help explain the high satisfaction among current and former employees. According to salaries reported on Glassdoor, the typical crew member at Trader Joe’s earns $14 per hour, which together with additional forms of compensation amounts to an average of $27,658 annually. By contrast, the national average annual salary for a cashier is $18,560.

Unlike most highly rated companies, however, fewer than three in four employees approve of CEO Dan Bane.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

33. Chevron (NYSE: CVX)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 84% (John Watson)
> Industry: Oil and gas
> Revenue: $138.5 billion
> Employees: 29,600 (U.S. employees)

One of the world’s largest oil and gas corporations, Chevron reported annual revenue of more than $138 billion in 2015 . Many employees might be happy to work for Chevron for its substantial community involvement efforts. The company runs a volunteer program, Chevron Humankind, and the company matches employee donations to nonprofits.

According to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, Chevron provides an equal and fair working environment to all employees regardless of their gender or sexuality. Chevron was one of just two oil and gas companies to receive a perfect score on HRC’s 2016 Corporate Equality Index.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

32. Hyatt (NYSE: H)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Mark Hoplamazian)
> Industry: Lodging
> Revenue: $4.3 billion
> Employees: 45,000

Hyatt owns and franchises approximately 650 hotels in 53 countries, and it directly employs approximately 45,000 of the more than 100,000 employees working at its many properties. With an average rating of 3.9 stars, Hyatt is the highest rated of any hotel with at least 1,000 reviews.

The most commonly reported advantages to working at Hyatt on Glassdoor are the great employee benefits offered by the company. After one year with the hotel, full-time employees are eligible for 12 complimentary nights in any Hyatt hotel room. Part-time employees are eligible for six nights. Additionally, all employees receive a 50% discount at Hyatt restaurants and free or discounted meals while on the clock.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

31. Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 92% (Mark Fields)
> Industry: Auto manufacturer
> Revenue: $149.6 billion
> Employees: 199,000

Car manufacturer Ford has one of the highest levels of employee satisfaction of any American company. While benefits and perks are important, higher compensation can lead to greater satisfaction, and Ford appears to pay many of its employees higher than standard wages. For example, product development engineers at Ford report an annual average base salary of $92,571. Across all employers, product development engineers earn an average of $78,982 a year.

Ford’s employees appear to hold their leadership in high regard. Mark Fields, who took over the roles of president and CEO on July 1, 2014, has a 92% approval rating on Glassdoor.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

30. Texas Instruments (NASDAQ: TXN)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 88% (Rich Templeton)
> Industry: Technology
> Revenue: $13.0 billion
> Employees: 29,977

Employees rate working at Texas Instruments 3.9 stars out of five on average, one of the best scores of any U.S. company. Under the company’s profit sharing program, employees receive a cash bonus in the first quarter of the calendar year, the size of which depends on the company’s profits. Many employees cite the profit sharing scheme as a major benefit to working at the company. TI also has three additional bonus programs in place to reward exceptional contributions and accomplishments from its workers.

In addition to bonuses, one of the most commonly mentioned plusses to working at Texas Instruments is its work environment and culture.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

29. Nike (NYSE: NKE)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 94% (Mark Parker)
> Industry: Apparel and footwear manufacturer
> Revenue: $30.6 billion
> Employees: 62,600

Financial success does not guarantee employee satisfaction, nor do happy employees necessarily improve a company’s bottom line. Resources to invest in employees certainly do not hurt, however, and surely a happy workforce can improve performance. Nike reported profits of $14.1 billion on revenue of $30.6 billion in its fiscal 2015 ending in May. The athletic apparel maker posted higher profit and revenue in at least each of the past four fiscal periods. U.S. Nike employees seem very pleased with their jobs as well as with senior leadership. Favorable reviews from employees of the footwear giant cite good benefits and plenty of paid time off, at least after several years of employment. CEO Mark Parker’s approval rating of 94% is one of the highest of any U.S. company.

While its U.S. employees report a favorable work environment, Nike developed a reputation in the 1990’s for relying heavily on foreign labor, often in extremely poor working conditions. While the company has taken steps to improve its image, In fiscal 2015, 85% of Nike footwear was manufactured in either Vietnam, China, or Indonesia, where working conditions are often very poor and the labor is considerably cheaper.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

28. Chick-fil-A
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 93% (Dan Cathy)
> Industry: Fast food
> Revenue: $6.0 billion
> Employees: N/A

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Chick-fil-A owns or franchises more than 2,000 fast-service chicken restaurants in 43 states. Employees reviewing the company appreciated not having to work the entirety of weekends. While most fast food restaurants are open seven days a week, all Chick-fil-A locations are closed on Sundays as a matter of policy, due to founder Truett Cathy’s religious convictions.

S. Truett’s son, Dan Cathy, has been the company’s chairman and CEO since 2013. He currently has a 93% approval rating among employees on Glassdoor, one of the higher CEO approval ratings.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

27. Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 95% (Alex Gorsky)
> Industry: Drug manufacturer
> Revenue: $70.1 billion
> Employees: 127,100

One of the older U.S. companies, consumer health care giant Johnson & Johnson has also become over time one of the largest pharmaceutical and medical device companies in the world. The maker of Band-Aid and Tylenol medications touts its unifying treatise that is chiseled into a wall at the company’s headquarters.

The treatise, called “Our Credo”, is chiseled into a wall at the company’s headquarters, and is cited by many employees as one reason behind the company’s great work environment. In many reviews, employees praise Johnson & Johnson for its culture and values. CEO Alex Gorsky has a 95% approval rating on Glassdoor, among the highest CEO approval rating of any company.

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Source: Wikimedia Commons

26. Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ: COST)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Craig Jelinek)
> Industry: Retail
> Revenue: $116.2 billion
> Employees: 205,000

Research has shown that salary and benefits only partially ensure job satisfaction. However, for relatively low-paying retail positions, a decent wage can make all the difference. The average hourly wage for entry-level positions at Costco, at just over $12 per hour, is higher compared to the national average hourly wage for a cashier of under $9 per hour. Health insurance, vacation and paid time off, and 401(k) plans often are the largest drivers of job satisfaction, and compared to the retail industry, Costco’s benefit packages are extremely generous. Earned paid time off, even for part-time workers, is one of the most commonly cited benefits of working at Costco on Glassdoor. The wholesale variety store also provides 401(k) plans, as well as health insurance to all employees who work 23 or more hours per week.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

25. T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 96% (John Legere)
> Industry: Wireless communications
> Revenue: $32.1 billion
> Employees: 50,000

Employees are more likely to be happy when a company is performing well, and T-Mobile has improved its position among competitors in recent years, gaining market share, revenue, and profits in the past few years. The company reported operating income of more than $2 billion in 2015, more than double the company’s net income two years prior. The company’s recent success could be the reason it receives the highest employee satisfaction rating of any mobile carrier on Glassdoor.

A big part T-mobile’s recent progress, as well as its worker satisfaction, appears to come from its relatively new leadership. CEO John Legere, who took the company’s helm in 2012, is somewhat of a CEO social media celebrity, with 2.7 million followers on Twitter. Legere is the 12th highest rated CEO on Glassdoor, with a 96% approval rating.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

24. Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT)
> Rating: 3.9
> CEO approval rating: 93% (Satya Nadella)
> Industry: Business software and services
> Revenue: $93.6 billion
> Employees: 60,000 (U.S. employees)

Microsoft currently employs approximately 118,000 workers through nearly 800 locations across the globe, and about 60,000 in the U.S. According to many Glassdoor reviews, Microsoft employees have the opportunity to take on new roles and responsibilities with relative ease, allowing them to “learn a lot,” as one reviewer put it, and build a substantial career. Microsoft has a more diversified product line than competitors Apple and Google, and many employees report that they enjoy the variety of projects to which they are consequently exposed. Microsoft employees reviewing the company are motivated by their work, referring to their projects as “world-changing” and “important.” Employees also cite the high intelligence of their coworkers, numerous benefits, and the ability to maintain a work-life balance as major advantages of working at Microsoft.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

23. Wegmans Food Markets
> Rating: 4.0
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Danny Wegman)
> Industry: Food markets
> Revenue: $7.9 billion
> Employees: 46,000

Rochester, New York-based grocery chain Wegmans has expanded from just a few locations to 87 supermarkets throughout six states. The company reported nearly $8 billion in revenue for fiscal 2015, and now employs roughly 46,000 workers.

Even before its expansion, Wegmans received nationwide recognition for its stellar employee treatment. Based on a number of employee reviews, management treats employees with respect, giving employees flexibility to try out different roles, and to take unplanned time off as needed. The company also actively promotes employee wellness and has implemented numerous employee health programs and subsidies.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

22. NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA)
> Rating: 4.0
> CEO approval rating: 95% (Jen-Hsun Huang)
> Industry: Technology
> Revenue: $5.0 billion
> Employees: 9,227

NVIDIA is a technology manufacturer specializing in visual computing. The company invented its flagship GPU graphics processor in 1999, and today it has approximately 9,200 employees and 7,000 patents — the most of any graphics technology manufacturer. Roughly two-thirds of those employees work in research and development, and the rest in sales, marketing, operations, and administration. In reviewing the company, many NVIDIA engineers praise the company for its smart people, flexible working hours, and cutting-edge technology.

According to Glassdoor reviews, employees tend to take pride in their work, which includes pioneering technologies such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and self-driving cars. Employees of NVIDIA also tend to enjoy longer tenures than most technology professionals. Just 5% of workers leave the company voluntarily each year, a lower voluntary turnover rate than the technology industry as a whole.

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Source: Wikimedia Commons

21. Mattress Firm (NASDAQ: MFRM)
> Rating: 4.0
> CEO approval rating: 73% (Ken Murphy)
> Industry: Retail
> Revenue: $2.5 billion
> Employees: 10,552

Since its founding in 1986, Mattress Firm has grown to become the country’s largest specialty bedding retailer, with over 3,500 owned and franchised stores across the country. After completing its acquisition of fellow mattress retailer Sleepy’s February 5, 2016, Mattress Firm grew from 7,186 employees to 10,552. Many employees appreciate the comprehensive training the company offers, and the plentiful opportunities for advancement. Mattress Firm employees also commonly cite unlimited earning potential as a major advantage to working at the company. With an average rating of 4.0 stars out of five, Mattress Firm has the highest employee satisfaction rating of any retail company.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

20. Expedia (NASDAQ: EXPE)
> Rating: 4.0
> CEO approval rating: 96% (Dara Khosrowshahi)
> Industry: Travel
> Revenue: $6.7 billion
> Employees: 18,730

In addition to the travel website of the same name, Expedia, Inc. owns a number of travel companies, including Hotels.com, Hotwire, and Orbitz. The company currently employs more than 18,700 people around the world. Expedia employees who reviewed the company on Glassdoor tended to give the company high ratings, and 82% said they would recommend the company to a friend. Research has found that good vacation policy is a key driver of employee satisfaction. And Expedia employees reviewing the company frequently cite the company’s favorable vacation policy as a plus.

Employee satisfaction may be at least partially due to appreciation of the company’s leadership. CEO Dara Khosrowshahi is one of the highest-rated chief executives on Glassdoor. Khosrowshahi took the helm in 2005, and in the last five years, company shares have risen by roughly 300%.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

19. SAP (NYSE: SAP)
> Rating: 4.0
> CEO approval rating: 95% (Bill McDermott)
> Industry: Application software
> Revenue: $22.6 billion
> Employees: 76,986

SAP is one of several technology firms among the best companies to work for. SAP is the third largest software manufacturer in the world, and it has approximately 77,000 employees across the globe. According to SAP, 87% of the world’s 2000 largest public companies are SAP clients. Employees on Glassdoor cite benefits, the ability to achieve a work-life balance, and the opportunity to work from home as major advantages to working at SAP. Nearly 16% of all SAP employees work from home.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

18. Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG)
> Rating: 4.0
> CEO approval rating: 96% (David Taylor)
> Industry: Consumer goods
> Revenue: $76.3 billion
> Employees: 110,000

Consumer product conglomerate Procter & Gamble is one of the largest companies in the world and owns several well-known brands, including Bounty, Charmin, Febreze, Tide, and Head & Shoulders.

Current and former employees at P&G tend to give the company very favorable reviews. Of the roughly 4,000 reviews on Glassdoor, 85% said they would recommend the company to a friend. Employees generally review the company’s benefits as very positive, with the company’s profit sharing plan, the oldest of its kind in the country, frequently mentioned as a highlight. Also, just 4% of reviewers did not approve of CEO David Taylor, making him one of the most highly-regarded executives on the site.

Source: Pexels.com

17. Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL)
> Rating: 4.0
> CEO approval rating: 95% (Tim Cook)
> Industry: Consumer electronics
> Revenue: $233.7 billion
> Employees: 76,000 (U.S. employees)

Earlier this year, Apple revealed that an estimated 1 billion people use Apple products worldwide. Many employees are motivated by Apple products’ influence and feel they work harder because of it. Apple employees also enjoy the experience that comes from working at such a well-known company. Employees on Glassdoor note that “the brand sounds good to other employers” and that the company is a “reputed name in the industry.” Many employees also cite the numerous corporate perks — such as tuition reimbursement and donation-matching — as an advantage to working at the company. Roughly two-thirds of Apple employees work part-time at one of the company’s retail stores, and enjoy many of the same benefits as full-time workers do at the company’s headquarters. Employees receive various discounts on Apple products, such as 50% off the Apple Watch and a 15% discount on most other items.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

16. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV)
> Rating: 4.1
> CEO approval rating: 85% (Gary Kelly)
> Industry: Airline
> Revenue: $19.8 billion
> Employees: 49,600

Southwest Airlines is tied with Delta for the highest employee satisfaction of any major airline. Employees and their families can travel for free on any Southwest Airlines flight with available seating, and they can earn guest passes for friends and travel companions. In addition to free flights, employees also commonly cite the ability to maintain a work-life balance and decent pay as advantages to working at Southwest. According to The New York Times, Southwest Airlines pilots have the highest hourly salaries of any major airline.

Satisfied employees are more likely to make a good impression on airline passengers. According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index, Southwest Airlines is tied with JetBlue for the highest customer satisfaction rating of any airline company.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

15. Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL)
> Rating: 4.1
> CEO approval rating: 91% (Ed Bastian)
> Industry: Airline
> Revenue: $40.7 billion
> Employees: 83,000

Some of the most commonly cited perks on Glassdoor by employees working at Delta are the free travel benefits. Employees can travel free of cost on any Delta flight with available seating. Family of employees can also fly free, and friends and travel companions are eligible for discounted tickets. Employees also praise the company for its profit sharing plan. For last year’s profit sharing bonus, Delta paid employees more than 21% of its total earnings for the year. The $1.5 billion payout set a record as the largest sum ever paid by a corporate profit sharing plan and was more than twice as large as payouts at competitors United and Southwest Airlines. With an average rating of 4.1 stars out of five, Delta Air Lines is tied with Southwest for the highest employee satisfaction of any major airline.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

14. Genentech
> Rating: 4.1
> CEO approval rating: 95% (Ian Clark)
> Industry: Biotechnology
> Revenue: $17.3 billion
> Employees: 13,704 (U.S. employees)

Genentech is the highest-rated biotech company on this list, as well as one of the best companies to work for in the United States overall. The San Francisco-based subsidiary of Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche reported revenues of $17 billion last year. The company employs more than 13,000 workers. While salary is only one component of employee satisfaction, it appears that Genentech workers are paid better than many in their field. The average Genentech research associate listing a salary on Glassdoor makes a base salary of $81,439. The average research associate across all companies at the site makes $51,818 a year.

At the company’s San Francisco campus, employees can receive free personal, financial, and legal counseling. The company also reimburses employees for as much as $10,000 each year to take classes to improve skills.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

13. H-E-B
> Rating: 4.1
> CEO approval rating: 96% (Charles Butt)
> Industry: Food markets
> Revenue: $22 billion
> Employees: 80,000

H-E-B is a San Antonio-based supermarket chain, operating about 340 locations around the country. It is also one of the largest privately-held U.S. companies. Employees who wrote positive reviews about the company frequently cited flexible scheduling as well as good benefits. The most commonly cited benefits are the discount employees receive, the 401(k) plan, and health insurance.

Employees appear to have a great deal of respect for CEO Charles Butt, who has stood at the helm of his family’s company since 1971. Butt is one of the 20 highest rated CEOs on Glassdoor.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

12. Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE)
> Rating: 4.1
> CEO approval rating: 94% (Shantanu Narayen)
> Industry: Application software
> Revenue: $4.8 billion
> Employees: 13,893

Adobe is behind many ubiquitous software products that countless businesses, creative agencies, and individuals rely on daily. The California-based company promises prospective hires they will help shape the future of digital experiences. Indeed, many employees cite making a difference as a reason for their job satisfaction.

High salaries and good benefits also help with the high job satisfaction. The average base salary of a computer scientist at Adobe is $119,395, about $10,000 more than it is on average at other companies. Company employees can also benefit from generous performance bonuses and a 401(k) contribution matching of up to 6%.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

11. Salesforce (NYSE: CRM)
> Rating: 4.1
> CEO approval rating: 97% (Marc Benioff)
> Industry: Application software
> Revenue: $6.7 billion
> Employees: 19,000

Salesforce is one of many California-based software and technology companies to rank among the best employers in the United States. Satisfied employees regularly cite a great company culture that takes its cue from solid leadership. Not surprisingly, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff is one of the most popular chief executives in the country. Co-founding the company in 1999, Benioff has held his current role since 2001 and receives near universal praise from his employees.

Salaries at Salesforce certainly do not hurt employee morale. While higher employee compensation is not as much of a clear indicator of employee satisfaction as is often assumed, it certainly can have an impact.The typical technical staff member at the company earns a base salary of $119,731 a year, more than $11,000 higher than the average base salary for technical staff at other companies across the country. After bonuses, a technical staff member at Salesforce can expect to bring home $135,509 a year on average.

Source: Thinkstock

10. Keller Williams
> Rating: 4.2
> CEO approval rating: 90% (Chris Heller)
> Industry: Real estate
> Revenue: $228 billion
> Employees: 139,000

Unique among companies with the highest employee satisfaction, Keller Williams is the only real estate business with a Glassdoor rating of at least 3.8. While reviewers regularly cite the company’s collaborative culture and comprehensive training program, it is the company’s profit sharing policies that are especially popular among employees. The average base salary of a KW real estate agent is only $41,271. However, after bonuses and profit and commission sharing, the average real estate agent takes home more than $75,000 a year.

The Austin, Texas-based franchise is the largest company of its kind in the world, employing more than 139,000 people.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

9. Boston Consulting Group
> Rating: 4.3
> CEO approval rating: 97% (Rich Lesser)
> Industry: Business services and supplies
> Revenue: $4.5 billion
> Employees: 10,500

Named after the city it was founded in more than half a century ago, Boston Consulting Group today is one of the best companies in the country to work for. Like many of the other top rated consulting firms on Glassdoor, satisfied BCG employees regularly cite challenging work, talented coworkers, and great benefits. Consultants at BCG are also well paid. With an average base salary of $145,253, the annual take home pay, including bonuses, is $172,478 on average. In comparison, the average industry wide base salary of a consultant is $92,564.

As is the case with the vast majority of the companies with the highest employee satisfaction, workers at BCG have confidence in the company’s leadership. CEO Rich Lesser has lead the company since early 2013 and has a 97% approval rating on Glassdoor.

Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/photobyrk/

8. Eastman Chemical (NYSE: EMN)
> Rating: 4.3
> CEO approval rating: 91% (Mark Costa)
> Industry: Chemical manufacturing
> Revenue: $9.6 billion
> Employees: 15,000

A spinoff of Eastman Kodak, Eastman Chemical was founded in 1994. Both companies are named after George Eastman. Eastman Chemical claims its employees are at the heart of its success, and, at least according to employee reviews on Glassdoor, the company appears to treat and reward them accordingly..

Eastman Chemical employees are far more likely to be satisfied with their job than most people. The chemical manufacturing company’s Glassdoor rating of 4.3 is among the highest of any major company and far higher than the 2.8 rating of the company it descended from. Eastman Chemical employees laud the company for its collaborative work environment and high pay.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

7. McKinsey & Company
> Rating: 4.3
> CEO approval rating: 99% (Dominic Barton)
> Industry: Business services and supplies
> Revenue: $8.3 billion
> Employees: 17,000

McKinsey is a management consulting company. Much of McKinsey’s research concerns maximizing employee satisfaction, which it has largely managed to do with its own workforce. In Glassdoor reviews, many employees note the smart people and opportunities to learn as major advantages to working at McKinsey. Many consulting roles involve working closely with a client on a project for a few months and traveling on a weekly basis. While some employees dislike the frequent travel, most enjoy their work overall. Employees rate McKinsey 4.3 stars out of five on average, among the highest employee satisfaction rating of any company.

Employee satisfaction tends to be higher when workers have faith in upper management, and McKinsey employees regularly praise their coworkers and leadership. CEO Dominic Barton has a 99% approval rating, tied for the highest of any company.

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Source: Wikimedia Commons

6. Uber
> Rating: 4.3
> CEO approval rating: 91% (Travis Kalanick)
> Industry: Technology
> Revenue: $495.3 million
> Employees: N/A

Uber is a technology company that facilitates requests for cars in major metropolitan areas around the world through the use of a mobile application. Launched in San Francisco in 2010, the company has grown dramatically since it was founded, reporting 1.1 million active drivers as of November of last year. The impressive growth and popularity of the company’s service may have led Uber Chief Advisor David Plouffe to frame in a press release last year Uber’s on-demand ridesharing model as a forerunner of America’s future labor force.

Freelance gig work makes up a very small share of businesses and workers in the U.S. economy. At Uber, however, drivers reviewing the company on Glassdoor spoke generally positively about the flexibility and independence they have. On the other hand, driving for Uber is for many not a reliable source of income and since drivers work under contract, they do not receive tax or worker protections, nor do they qualify for unemployment insurance and other benefits of full employment.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

5. LinkedIn (NYSE: LNKD)
> Rating: 4.4
> CEO approval rating: 97% (Jeff Weiner)
> Industry: Internet information providers
> Revenue: $3.0 billion
> Employees: 9,372

Many of the companies with the highest employee satisfaction ratings deal with cutting-edge technology and have widespread reach. LinkedIn, which recently agreed to be acquired by Microsoft, is the world’s largest professional network with approximately 433 million members in over 200 countries and territories. Employees of the company frequently cite their smart coworkers and workplace culture as major benefits to working at LinkedIn. Employees report feeling valued and motivated by management. CEO Jeff Weiner has a 97% approval rating, among the highest of any company.

LinkedIn also offers its employees numerous perks. Employees enjoy unlimited vacation, free cafeteria lunches, and one day each month dedicated to pursuing personal projects.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

4. Google (NASDAQ: GOOAV)
> Rating: 4.4
> CEO approval rating: 98% (Sundar Pichai)
> Industry: Internet information providers
> Revenue: $75.0 billion
> Employees: 61,814

Internet search juggernaut Google trails just three other companies in employee rating. To ensure job satisfaction and attract the most qualified applicants, technology companies offer generous perks and benefits — and Google is no different. Reviewers cite features of traditional benefits packages such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. In addition, several current Google employees who gave the company the highest possible rating cited exceptional staff parties held at such locations as the Museum of Modern Art, as well as overnight ski trips to Vermont.

Resources are needed to provide the most competitive salaries, bonuses and other benefits, and like many of the most favorably rated U.S. companies, Google is doing very well financially. The company reported profits of $16.35 billion on revenue of $74.99 billion in 2015, both up considerably from the previous year.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

3. Facebook (NASDAQ: FB)
> Rating: 4.5
> CEO approval rating: 98% (Mark Zuckerberg)
> Industry: Internet information providers
> Revenue: $17.9 billion
> Employees: 12,691

Like many of the best companies to work for, social networking giant Facebook is controlled by the person who founded the company. Just as a high CEO turnover rate might reflects poorly on a company’s management, the continuity of Mark Zuckerberg’s tenure as CEO may help explain his near-perfect approval rating as well as the overall high employee satisfaction. In favorable reviews, the company is frequently praised for its perks and benefits, including free food, on-site medical and dental care, and generous vacation time that one reviewer claimed employees are actually encouraged to use. The benefits are so generous some reviewers complain their coworkers have developed an unhealthy sense of entitlement, citing ridiculous complaints in feedback sessions.

More than 1 billion people use facebook around the world. The company’s remarkable global presence, as well as its stated intention to make society more open and connected, appear to have helped many employees believe they are changing the world, according to reviews.

Source: Thinkstock

2. Insight Global
> Rating: 4.5
> CEO approval rating: 96% (Glenn Johnson)
> Industry: IT services
> Revenue: $1.2 billion (last year’s source)
> Employees: N/A

Insight Global sells staffing and recruiting services to companies operating primarily in the information technology, accounting, engineering, and financial industries. As a company that is in the business of matching employees to employers, one would hope Insight Global’s own employees are well suited and satisfied with their jobs. Indeed, only Bain & Company is reviewed more favorably by its employees than Insight Global.

Based on employee reviews, working at Insight Global is highly demanding. As is the case with a number of the best companies to work for, however, employees who are up to the challenge are rewarded with high salaries. As one reviewer claimed, “nearly 100% of people here are making over $100,000 within their second full year at the company.” Current and former employees also report plenty of opportunities and support for professional development, indicating that for many satisfied employees, the challenge may itself be a reward.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

1. Bain & Company
> Rating: 4.6
> CEO approval rating: 98% (Bob Bechek)
> Industry: Business services and supplies
> Revenue: $2.2 billion
> Employees: 5,700

Bain & Company is the most highly regarded company on Glassdoor. CEO Bob Bechek is very popular among his employees, with a near-perfect approval rating. The high salaries the company’s consultants and analysts make certainly explain part of the high job satisfaction. Competitive benefits, such as maternity and paternity leave, a 401(k) plan, and health insurance are also often cited favorably by employees. Upper management and the professional climate are also often described in reviews as very supportive.

However, working at Bain & Company is also a double-edged sword for many employees. Work-life balance is mentioned in both positive and negative reviews of the company. As is likely the case for many others working in highly highly demanding occupations, opportunity and competitive compensation are rewards for challenging and often stressful working conditions. One reviewer wrote, “you are always solving the easiest problem you will ever solve again.”