1 Parametrix Seattle Environmental engineering Employees at Parametrix enjoy flexible work schedules and the option to telecommute, enabling a healthy work-life balance. As a 100% employee-owned company, everyone on the team has a stake in its success, which creates a culture of openness and collaboration. Regular office lunches and team-building events reflect this. In addition to competitive pay, performance-based bonuses, and annual performance-based pay increases, Parametrix has a robust training and career development program at all levels. Workers also have access to ping-pong tables and walking trails near the office—the perfect way to take a break and clear your head on a busy day. CEO: John Willis
2 Edward Jones Seattle Insurance Boasting a “flexible, family-friendly workplace” with numerous office locations that help cut down on commute time, Edward Jones offers every associate the opportunity to own part of the firm. (Any associate in good standing with three years of service can be offered a partnership.) Coworkers can bond at summer regional meetings, team challenges, and celebrations for accomplishments. Volunteerism is important to the company, which gives home-office associates one paid Day of Caring annually. “In our branches, volunteerism during the workday is common and expected,” the company states. Well-being resources such as nutrition, fitness, and stress management support are also available to employees. Managing Partner: Penny Pennington
3 Baker Boyer Walla Walla Financial institution For more than 155 years, Baker Boyer has operated with a “people-first philosophy,” which applies to customers and employees alike. Benefits soar above industry standards and include fully paid health insurance, up to 12% employer contributions to 401(k) plans, generous time off, and support programs like financial counseling and education loan aid. “From a comprehensive onboarding experience with a dedicated Buddy Program to personalized career development guided by experienced advisors, we invest in every employee’s journey,” the company notes. Much-anticipated annual traditions include a summer family picnic, winter party, caramel apple day, and the departmental Halloween decorating contest. President and CEO: Mark Kajita
4 Astronics AES Kirkland Manufacturing A four-day work week and flexible schedule are just two of the perks of working at Astronics AES. An office connected to a trail system linking Kirkland and Woodinville provides opportunities for walking or cycling, and some managers hold one-on-one meetings while getting in extra steps. A social workplace and active lifestyle are part of the company culture. In addition to a bike-to-work day, the formation of interest groups is encouraged. If you’re into books, cycling, horseback riding, hiking, or mountain biking, you’ll have coworkers to share your hobby with. According to Astronics AES, they have many “boomerang” employees and a high rate of employee referrals for open positions. President and CEO: Peter Gunderman
5 Mutual of Enumclaw Insurance Company Enumclaw Insurance For nearly 130 years, this insurance company has served its community with the belief that “a strong and supportive company culture is key to providing a rare and valuable experience for customers—and a positive workplace for employees.” The latter enjoy generous benefits, flexible work options, and peer-to-peer recognition. To encourage coworkers to bond, there are monthly in-person lunches and fun activities like wellness challenges, virtual coffee chats, bingo, and trivia, and a costume event for Halloween. Professional development, continuing education, and cross-department collaboration are encouraged. President and CEO: Bob Otis
6 MG2 Seattle Architecture and design Embracing the motto “people make the place,” MG2 never misses an opportunity to celebrate the successes of every person in the workplace—not just the top brass. “MG2 has always put people ahead of prof-it, building healthy communities by prioritizing design inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability while offering employee benefits in all areas of healthcare and well-being, as well as education and professional development,” the company says. This includes being a longtime proponent of flexible, hybrid, and remote work. Additional highlights include fully paid, unlimited-use Orca passes, firmwide charitable events that benefit the community, and extensive leadership training and career development opportunities, including fee coverage and bonuses for certification and licensure training and testing. CEO: Mitch Smith
7 POWERX Pasco Electrical From day one, every team member is empowered to share feedback, innovate, and make an impact. The leadership team at POWERX welcomes suggestions, ideas, and questions—encouraging dialogue and creating a culture of openness and trust. In addition to 401(k) matching, PTO, and wellness days, the company embraces team bonding with contests like NFL Pick’em Leagues and Fantasy Football Teams. CEO: Jason Greer
8 Jacksons Food Stores Meridian, Idaho Gocery This family-owned and -operated business has been around since 1975. Priding itself on internal promotion and encouraging employees to have a healthy work-life balance, Jacksons Food Stores also shares all profits with employees. Additional bonuses include tuition reimbursement, fuel and store discounts, employee appreciation programs, and social events like holiday celebrations. President: Cory Jackson
