The 100 Best Companies to Work for in Oregon 2016


Here it is:  the 2016 list of the Best Companies to Work for in Oregon.

 

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Large Companies: 100 or More Oregon Employees

1. Adroit Construction
Ashland
adroitbuilt.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 110 SCORE:  543.2
The company’s mission is to build the best possible product as efficiently as possible without compromising employee safety or product quality. “We never stop working toward better and more efficient ways of doing business both in the field and in the office.”

2. Express Employment Professionals
Tualatin
expresspros.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  125 SCORE:  518.2
Express truly values its staff. Loyalty is amply rewarded: Those who reach their 10th, 15th, 20th and 25th anniversaries receive paid sabbaticals, paid vacations, gifts and cash, and its LifeBalance program is loaded with discounts and benefits. “It is like working for a huge family that really cares.”

3. Fortis Construction
Portland
fortisconstruction.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  159 SCORE:  515.1
A high-achieving environment supports staff and pushes them to new levels of performance. “A naturally inspiring and challenging work environment combined with the work-hard, play-hard attitude, it’s a great place to be!” raves one worker.

4. KPMG
Portland
kpmg.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  205 SCORE:  515.0
Flexible work arrangements include flex time, telecommuting, job sharing, phased return from a leave of absence, transition to retirement, part-time schedules and a compressed workweek. “I couldn’t have imagined this type of work environment that I have experienced when I was coming out of college,” says one employee.

5. Digimarc
Beaverton
digimarc.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  146 SCORE:  514.3
Employee benefits at this digital watermarking software maker comprise a wide range, from restricted stock options and generous health benefits to telecommuting, flexible hours and on-site amenities like a full kitchen, green space, fitness and game rooms.

6. Andersen Construction
Portland
andersen-const.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  604 SCORE:  512.0
“Andersen is more of a community than a company; it’s a warm and welcoming environment.” The firm articulates its core values and lives by them every working day. If you work for Andersen, you know you’re working for a company that “strives for greatness the right way, one decision, one action and one day at a time.”

7. Turner Construction
Portland
turnerconstruction.com/portland
OR EMPLOYEES:  157 SCORE:  511.7
A local giant in the construction industry, Turner hires great people and supports them with good benefits and team-building activities designed to build a cohesive team. “Our culture is to strive to do the best that we can through our group strengths.”

8. Carr Auto Group
Beaverton
carrauto.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  340 SCORE:  511.3
It’s a family affair at Carr. Family founded and owned, it “adopts” rather than hires employees, bringing them into the fold. Typical employee accolades include: “great family-oriented place to work,” “Carr treats everyone like family” and “they provide a fun work environment while rewarding hard work.”

9. Ruby Receptionists
Portland
callruby.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  268 SCORE:  509.7
This virtual-receptionist company strives to empower its staff, and it has succeeded, employees say. Individual creativity is highly prized, people are expected to weigh in on decisions and continual improvement in the service is a company mantra. “We are all focused around a clear mission, vision and values.”

10. Jive Software
Portland
jivesoftware.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  280 SCORE:  508.4
In the competitive software world, people like to be surrounded by bright, hardworking peers. Jive has made that happen. Pay and benefits are great, but so is the environment:  “The quality of this company is a reflection of the quality of its people.”

11. Cook Security Group
Milwaukie
cooksecuritygroup.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  112 SCORE:  507.6
This high-tech financial security firm offers employees a solid compensation package. But that’s just the start. Despite growing rapidly, Cook has remained family friendly, open to input from staff and committed to top -quality customer service. “Our growth keeps it super exciting!”

12. CBRE
Portland
cbre.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  124 SCORE:  504.7
A commercial real estate services provider, CBRE gets high marks for honoring its core values every day. They are RISE: Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence. The tagline says it all: “Pushing ourselves to be the best, not only in market share but in ethics.”

13. General Sheet Metal
Clackamas
gsmw.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  110 SCORE:  504.6
Owner Carol Duncan has a great fan club: her employees. Maybe it’s because she shows that she cares, with handwritten birthday cards and gifts, holiday gifts, birthday parties and more. “She cares deeply about the employees.” And, other employees say, she works hard and leads by example.

14. Lane Powell
Portland
lanepowell.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  137 SCORE:  504.0
This law firm does it all: Its employees are well compensated, respected by management and encouraged to grow professionally. Its support of local charities is a source of great pride to workers, and its guiding principles let everyone know the direction they’re headed. “The best place to work in Oregon!” says a staffer.

15. Capitol Auto Group
Salem
capitolauto.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  304 SCORE:  502.3
“Our product is top notch but our people are what makes it so great.” This theme is echoed by many employees, who appreciate feedback on their performance, recognition for outstanding work, community involvement and professional training. Oh, and fun too. “The Disney of the car business!” says an employee.

16. T-Mobile
Salem
t-mobile.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  650 SCORE:  501.9
Highly competitive phone service company offers great benefits and pay, performance incentives and support for professional growth. Its management team gets high praise from the troops: “We have a genuine leader/CEO who is willing to risk, try new things and lead us into a new way of doing business.”

17. JLL
Portland
jll.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  211 SCORE:  501.3
Start with excellent benefits, including generous PTO, 401K and paid health, add commitment to diversity and inclusion, toss with relentless pursuit of excellence and you have a happy staff at this real estate services provider. “The opportunity feels endless, as long as you are willing to work for it!”

18. SurveyMonkey
Portland
surveymonkey.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  125 SCORE:  501.1
“Tons of amazing benefits” explains one of the factors behind this company’s recruiting and retention success. The collaborative work style appeals to staff as well, and folks like the mission: “We help people make better decisions, and that’s the greatest thing ever.”

19. Olsson Industrial Electric
Springfield
olssonelec.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  140 SCORE:  497.69
Profitsharing is one perk that keeps staff invested. What’s more: Unlike many construction companies, Olsson somehow manages to have steady year-round work. “They strive to be safe, professional and caring about the work that we do. An incredible company to work for!”

20. AKT CPAs | Advisors | Consultants
Salem
aktcpa.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  162 SCORE:  497.65
The company mission and value proposition are clearly stated, and that drives everyone in the same direction. Its benefits plan focuses on employee health. Says one: “I love that this company wants their employees to be healthy and live healthy lives.”

21. Pacific Residential Mortgage
Lake Oswego
pacresmortgage.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  200 SCORE:  495.6
The feedback loop is alive here, and those who show up are rewarded. Says one employee: “I got promoted within one month of working here.” Staff rave about their ability to take risks and try new ways to get the job done — all encouraged from the top.

22. Vernier Software & Technology
Beaverton
vernier.com
OR EMPLOYEES:  105 SCORE:  493.7
A maker of science and STEM teaching software, Vernier rewards its hardworking staff with strong compensation packages and lots of extras, from movie day, Employee Appreciation Week and in-office massages to sports and fun competitions.

23. R&H Construction
Portland
rhconst.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 220 SCORE:  491.5
Good pay, great benefits, lots of free meals, on-site games, a strong focus on work/life balance — these are among the accolades employees heaped upon their employer. The wellness plan was cited as a plus, as well as the many opportunities the company provides to support nonprofits.

24. Ticor Title
Salem
ticormwv.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 100 SCORE:  490.7
This title company has built a culture of respect, teamwork and individual ownership of the work. “They give us the tools and training to build our own personal success.” The company provides the support employees need to exceed and grow professionally.

25. Pacific Landscape Management
Hillsboro
pacscape.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 170 SCORE:  483.8
Here’s a rare accolade: “The managers like cooking for employees.” It’s emblematic of the company’s stellar treatment of its employees, who enjoy staff picnics, year-end gifts — and spontaneous meals prepped by the bosses.

26. Perkins Coie
Portland
perkinscoie.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 132 SCORE:  481.9
A recent office remodel wowed the troops and was yet another indication of this law firm’s commitment to excellence. Strong community service adds to the pride people have for their employer.

27. New Relic
Portland
newrelic.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 282 SCORE:  480.7
This software maker knows how to land top talent in the competitive tech niche: strong comp package, stimulating and fun environment, opportunities to get ahead and be part of a winner. “Great product, Great vision. Love the company culture,” says one employee.

28. Grange Co-op
Central Point
grangecoop.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 250 SCORE:  480.3
This employee comment says it all: “Our company has never had any layoffs in over 80 years and is always looking to grow, expand and be more efficient and yet still maintain a great, fun place to work.”

29. Davis Wright Tremaine
Portland
dwt.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 161 SCORE:  478.7
An outstanding law firm gets high marks as a workplace. The hierarchy found at many law firms that separates staff and lawyers doesn’t exist here, they say. “I am supported in all professional endeavors — the sky is the limit. It is a fun and inspiring place to work.”

30. US Cellular
Medford
uscellular.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 203 SCORE:  478.4
Competitive comp packages are good for recruiting and retention, but people take great pride in the company’s commitment to community. “We as a company volunteer at food banks, the Boys and Girls Club, local schools and a plethora of other organizations.” That same level of care is shown to staff.

31. Finance of America Mortgage
Portland
pcmhq.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 321 SCORE:  478.1
Employees here live by four core values: teamwork, empowerment, positivity and excellence. “Love it!” “Great teamwork!” Says a veteran of 49 years with the company.  “They amaze me every day. It is truly an honor to work for them!”

32. Jama Software
Portland
jamasoftware.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 155 SCORE:  476.69
The software product makes customers happy, and the work environment makes the employees happy. Staff say it is a challenging place to work but one with strong leaders, strong compensation and a clear sense of direction.

33. Pacific Continental Bank
Eugene
therightbank.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 294SCORE:  476.65
Employees feel valued and heard at this bank. They take pride in the bank’s role in the community, both on a commercial and philanthropic level. “Bank-wide support for engagement within the communities that we serve via volunteering, education and financial support” was lauded by one employee.

Medium Companies: 35 To 99 Oregon Employees

1. Earl & Brown
Beaverton
earlbrown.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 36 SCORE:  558.5
“Work hard, play hard, give back hard” is the mantra at this distribution/fulfillment firm. The litany of on-site employee events runs the gamut, from Ugly Holiday Sweater Day to Secret Santa to the fabulous Friday Un-Winder. Charitable events are just as important to this culture. “We’re proud of our efforts to give back to our local community.”

2. Lanphere Construction and Development
Beaverton
buildlcd.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 52 SCORE:  550.0
“Every company says they’re a family. LCD truly is.” This company focuses on family building, not team building, and walks the walk. For example: Co-workers of an employee who was taken by cancer hosted a $50,000 fundraiser for their friend’s family to help with expenses.

3. New Reynolds Electric
Eugene
reynoldselectric.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 62 SCORE:  542.0
From the top down, people treat one another with respect. It’s a family- owned business that hasn’t forgotten what family means to success. “A family-first place of employment, compassionate toward their employees about all matters regarding their families,” notes a staffer.

4. Cardinal Services
Coos Bay
cardinal-services.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 40 SCORE:  540.7
“Humanity,” “compassion,” “flexibility,” “community involvement” — these are the words employees use to describe their employer, an employment services provider. It’s a trifecta focus: work, family, community. “We have truly achieved a work/life balance. It is a blessing to work here.”

5. TTR
McMinnville
ttrus.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 40 SCORE:  539.9
“I have never worked for a company that cared as much for their employees,” says one employee of this tax services firm, a theme that is echoed by many others. The work is demanding, but management keeps it light with games and activities that bring folks together “into a productive, family-like atmosphere.”

6. Propeller
Portland
propellerpdx.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 45SCORE:  536.5
Impressive company leadership at this project management firm has built a high-level team that sets aggressive goals and meets them. It’s an exhilarating environment that fosters quality work. At the same time, individual support is lavish, including customized training and development programs for each employee.

7. Hagan Hamilton Insurance
McMinnville
haganhamilton.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 48 SCORE:  534.5
Talk about benefits; this company sets a new standard. An official Activities Committee organizes games, picnics, jeans day, food fundraisers for local events, coffees/treats for special days. Early dismissal every Friday, extra days off around major holidays and even continuing education fees are offered.

8. Point B
Portland
pointb.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 43 SCORE:  533.8
It’s employee owned, and employees do take ownership seriously at this management consulting firm. “If there is something we don’t like we are empowered to fix it.” Employee input is highly valued and essentially shapes the direction of this customer-service driven organization.

9. Evergreen Consulting Group
Beaverton
evergreen-efficiency.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 42 SCORE:  532.2
Evergreen has embraced the virtual office: Everyone works remotely, and employees love it. No time wasted in commuting, flexible hours, good benefits — it all adds up to an extremely productive and efficient team. “This virtual company makes work/life balance phenomenal.”

10. Boly:Welch
Portland
bolywelch.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 41 SCORE:  531.0
It’s the way they build and develop their own staff that makes this employment agency a destination employer. Employees rave about the positive, supportive work environment, not to mention pay and benefits. “Incredible, from top to bottom” is a typical accolade. 

11. Solutions YES
Portland
solutionsyes.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 35 SCORE:  529.3
This authorized dealer of Kyocera and Kodak business solutions products instills its workforce with a sense of purpose and pride. As one says, “It starts with the owners and trickles down to everyone else.” Mutual respect is a core value, and everyone works together to ensure that customers are the real winners.

12. Cloudability
Portland
cloudability.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 43 SCORE:  529.1
This maker of cost-management software has created a culture that rewards hard work and stimulates employees to push the envelope. Particularly telling is this comment: “The leaders (notice I didn’t use the word ‘managers’) are here to lead. They provide the direction and resources needed to be successful.”

13. Mortgage Trust
Portland
mortgage-trust.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 41 SCORE:  527.4
“It’s all about the people. The culture is one of true teamwork, caring for personal balance and the community,” says one worker. Folks love the sense of belonging they find there, and are quite effusive about pay and benefits. Flexible work arrangements allow people to be productive when and where they’re able to do their best work.

14. CrowdCompass by Cvent
Portland
crowdcompass.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 75 SCORE:  525.0
This software vendor celebrates work and life in the grand old tech style: Dogs are welcome in the office, kegs are on hand to slake one’s thirst, meals are delivered, yoga and fun events, flexible hours and work locations. “I’m loving it at CrowdCompass!”

15. ShopKeep
Portland
shopkeep.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 52 SCORE:  524.2
This retail software vendor touts its “kick-ass, collaborative culture,” and employees agree. Besides cool benefits like unlimited PTO, good health insurance, catered meals and team-building events, employees admire the leadership team, love their product and believe their feedback is taken seriously.

16. MassMutual Oregon
Lake Oswego
massmutual.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 60 SCORE:  524.1
Performance standards  are high,  but there’s more than good pay and excellent benefits at the end of the day. “Reward trips, incentive bonuses, lunches out, picnics, after-work activities, etc.,” raves one employee. Others praise management for offering flexible work schedules and honoring family commitments.

17. Magnum Opus
Portland
magnumo.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 45 SCORE:  523.50
This high-end salon offers ongoing training with world-renowned hair artists. That matters to the staff, as does the comp package. “The ongoing education, benefits and compensation as well as flexible work schedule puts Magnum Opus in the top 1% in the beauty industry. Yeah, it’s that good here!”

18. Avista Utilities
Medford
avistautilities.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 56 SCORE:  523.46
It’s the people, the people, the people. This power plant operator evidently knows how to hire great workers, because everyone points to their bosses and co-workers as the reason they love working there. “Great culture!” says one.

19. JE Dunn Construction
Portland
jedunn.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 85 SCORE:  523.3
Of this construction firm, one employee says, “leadership is great and we have a shared vision of success!” Excellent benefits and a collaborative work style motivate staff to excel, and they take pride both in the projects they build and the community service they perform together.

20. Mammoth HR
Portland
mammothhr.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 37 SCORE:  523.1
This human resources consulting firm takes its own advice, creating a work environment where people  feel valued and supported. Flexible work arrangements and lots of PTO keep people fresh and productive. No wonder 50% of new hires are employee referrals.

21. Emerick Construction Company
Tualatin
emerick.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 49 SCORE:  520.5
Work/life balance has been struck at Emerick, according to staff. Leadership solicits input and acts upon it. Employees feel supported to take initiative. It all adds up to a cohesive, family environment. “It’s amazing how the human pieces all fit together.”

22. Jones & Roth
Eugene
jrcpa.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 83 SCORE:  518.7
This CPA firm sets itself apart by giving staff the tools it needs not only to serve clients but to advance professionally. Open communication breeds a transparent environment, and the flexible work options support employees’ personal lives. “They trust me to get my work done, and I really appreciate that.”

23. Slalom
Portland
slalom.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 85 SCORE:  517.4
This consulting firm attracts staff with solid compensation and benefits, then keeps them by providing an atmosphere of empowerment, transparency and professional development. Explains one employee: “‘A’ performers attract other ‘A’ performers to Slalom.”

24. IDX
Eugene
idxbroker.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 48 SCORE:  517.1
“This company is amazing!” The real estate services firm makes sure employees balance hard work with rewards big and small — from an excellent benefits package and flexible work arrangements to Nerf gun battles, monthly “bonus” luncheons and Monday morning bacon, bagels and doughnuts.

25. Farleigh Wada Witt
Portland
fwwlaw.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 48 SCORE:  516.8
This law firm, employees say, hires good people and strives to retain them. Generous benefits, a focus on work/life balance and an all-around productive and supportive work environment make for a great employer. “Innovative, caring, high level of service,” notes and employee.

26. Independent Dispatch
Portland
independentdispatch.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 71 SCORE:  515.4
Here, people report, “every employee plays an important part in the company’s success.” The work can be demanding — but rewards include on-site healthy meals, staff bike rides, even the occasional paintball war to let off steam. Benefits are strong bonuses “second to none in the industry.”

27. Sokol Blosser Winery
Dundee
sokolblosser.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 42 SCORE:  513.1
The managers at this legendary winery “understand that treating employees well is beneficial to their business.” This includes a solid feedback loop to capture employee input, good compensation, a team environment — and then, of course, there’s the crush!

28. Convergence Networks
Milwaukie
convergencenetworks.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 39 SCORE:  512.5
This IT support-services firm supports its workforce as well, with a great comp package, team environment and open channels for communication. It starts at the top here: “The leadership is what makes this company a great place to work.”

29. Tec Labs
Albany
teclabsinc.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 38 SCORE:  511.8
A great all-around package: family atmosphere, healthy year-end bonus, thoughtful recruiting process and a focus on retaining top performers. “I have worked at large corporations with very good reputations for work/life balance, but none have come close to the flexibility Tec Labs gives employees.”

30. Adpearance
Portland
adpearance.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 67 SCORE:  510.5
A full-service digital marketing firm, this firm has “made it a priority to develop a culture of fun, respect and camaraderie.” Young folks here love the autonomy and the confidence management shows in their abilities.

31. Women’s Health Center of Southern Oregon
Grants Pass
womenshealthso.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 57 SCORE:  509.4
This healthcare provider takes care of its own. A highly collaborative workplace has everyone tuned in to the founders’ core values. “It’s this climate that helps us provide exceptional patient care each and every time — even under stressful circumstances.”

32. (TIE) Sussman Shank
Portland
sussmanshank.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 62 SCORE:  508.2
“There is a great team mentality” at this law firm, where the laser focus is on customer satisfaction. But you can’t do that without the “top-notch” working conditions created for employees. “Great people, great history and reputation,” says an employee.

32. (TIE) Aspen Creek Landscaping
Newberg
aspencreeklandscaping.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 35 SCORE:  508.2
Everybody’s on the same page here, and everyone’s input is valued. “From top to bottom each member of our team feels that their contribution is invaluable and necessary.”

33. The Partners Group
Portland
tpgrp.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 82 SCORE:  506.4
One employee says this financial services company is “on the brink of greatness,” and other feedback from staff suggests why: highly ethical, a culture of quality and customer service, community involvement, flexible work model and a hiring process that ensures a strong staff from top to bottom.

Small Companies: 15 TO 34 OREGON EMPLOYEES

1. ICON Staffing Network
Tualatin
iconstaffingnetwork.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 22 SCORE:  566.7
This staffing agency offers benefits like early release hours on Fridays, catered lunches twice a week, season tickets to Trail Blazers and Ducks games and even arcade games. “This keeps our company culture interactive and fun and strengthens the team environment.”

2. Rose City Mortgage
Portland
rosecitymtg.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 15 SCORE:  558.1
With each loan closed by this mortgage firm, the lender chooses a charity to which Rose City makes a donation. Work/ life balance is embedded in the culture. “An incredibly supportive atmosphere, flexibility for everyone, especially when our employees have families, children, and generally when life happens,” notes an employee.

3. The Gunter Group
Portland
guntergroupconsulting.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 23 SCORE:  556.3
One employee of this management consultant says simply, “My voice is important within TGG.” The company has created an environment that breeds success and self-improvement. As another puts it, “A high caliber of professionals who want nothing more than for all the team members to succeed and to do what’s best for our clients.”

4. Barran Liebman
Portland
barran.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 32 SCORE:  555.5
“The firm has changed my life — the opportunities and support are unparalleled. I love this place!” That’s a typical descriptor of this law firm, where management treats staff even-handedly, supports their personal lives and invests heavily in community involvement. “I feel so lucky to be a part of the BL family.”

5. Trail Blazers Marketing
Beaverton
trailblazersmarketinginc.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 15 SCORE:  544.5
All the pleasures of a successful basketball team without the annoying demands of stardom. Folks work together to achieve company goals — which include community service, environmental stewardship and work/life balance. The collaborative atmosphere inspires creativity and brings people together.

6. Davidson Benefits Planning
Tigard
davidsonbenefitsplanning.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 18 SCORE:  538.6
This company pushes its employees to new heights and rewards success “with flowers, dinners and fun events.” A healthy lifestyle is encouraged through the distribution of Fitbits, sit or stand desks, healthy break room choices and flexible hours designed to meet the individual needs of employees.

7. Staffing Robot
Portland
staffingrobot.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 17 SCORE:  537.5
A smart, hardworking staff is supported by a management team that offers strong benefits, professional growth opportunities and a “flat” workplace that emphasizes the team approach to client service and problem solving. “The bond of a family, the security of a corporation, the growth of a startup,” says a staffer.

8. McKenzie Commercial Contractors
Eugene
mckenziecommercial.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 25 SCORE:  536.9
The company founders came up through the trades and have imbued the company with a strong work ethic, an environmental consciousness and an understanding that family comes first. “I consider myself to be a very, very lucky person to be part of this team.”

9. Transaction Tax Consulting Group
McMinnville
ttcg.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 15 SCORE:  536.4
While the pace can be hectic during certain times of the year, the culture is one of collaboration. “A family with a common vision” is how one employee puts it. A supportive environment includes room for fun: “The Nerf gun wars are always a nice plus.”

10. Redmond Dental Group
Redmond
redmonddentalgroup.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 19 SCORE:  536.2
Many praise the family-like atmosphere. But they recognize the importance of other factors: Plans and goals are clearly articulated and followed through, people are expected to take responsibility and problem solve, and everyone has the same objective — having patients with “the healthiest mouths possible.”

11. Steelhead Finance
Medford
steelheadfinance.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 30 SCORE:  535.7
Providing financial and invoicing services to transportation companies, Steelhead takes great care of its clients and its employees. “They really are the most supportive company I have ever worked for. If every company cared about the welfare of their employees like Steelhead, I’m sure the world would be a much happier place.”

12. Hitachi Consulting
Portland
hitachiconsulting.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 28 SCORE:  535.4
This international business consulting firm supports career growth through training, mentoring and recognition of performance excellence. Employee engagement, barely acknowledged at many companies, is a high priority here. “The most supportive team I have ever experienced in a professional environment,” proclaims one employee.

13. AJ’s Auto Repair
Salem
ajsautorepair.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 16 SCORE:  534.1
In an industry of very hard work and often a no-frills compensation plan, AJ’s stands out. Health coverage for employees and spouses is one differentiator. Another: a focus on “green” auto maintenance. Customer service is Job 1. “Best place I’ve worked, I will retire here!”

14. Rich Duncan Construction
Salem
richduncanconstruction.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 23 SCORE:  529.0
Employees say this is an authentic place to work: no job shortcuts, no excuses. The owners roll up their sleeves and pitch in to lead by example. Employees are proud of Rich Duncan’s reputation for taking on community projects as well as for its commitment to customer satisfaction.

15. Vista Capital Partners
Portland
vistacp.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 17 SCORE:  528.7
The firm’s core values set the tone. “Demand excellence, be passionate, strive for simplicity, enjoy the journey and act with integrity.” The staff “loves what they do and are passionate about what they do.” Lunch is delivered twice a week, there’s paid time off for community service, and there are flexible work hours.

16. Jackson County Physical Therapy
Medford
jc-pt.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 28 SCORE:  527.6
It must be the people who make the difference here. “Incredible people, welleducated, dedicated to providing the best care possible, professional, respectful and fun,” says one employee. The result: This team delivers “the best experience and

17. NW Staffing Resources
Portland
nwstaffing.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 19 SCORE:  526.9
This staffing firm pays attention to the details, offering solid benefits, time off, work/life balance, flex-schedule options, work-from-home options and more. Performance recognition and open communications have built a team where many have 15-plus years of service.

18. XPLANE
Portland
xplane.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 30 SCORE:  526.3
This strategic design consultant encourages solutions and ideas to bubble up from the staff. “There is total encouragement, support and expectation for employee-led initiatives.” Additionally, the flexible work environment allows people to do their best work whether in the office or remote.

19. Matrix Networks
Portland
matrixnetworks.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 25 SCORE:  525.2
This provider of business phone systems, Wi-Fi, video conferencing, etc. makes an extra effort to get feedback from employees. Training and professional development opportunities abound. Employees feel valued, and that translates into low turnover and high morale.

20. Sterling Communications
Portland
sterling.net
OR EMPLOYEES: 23 SCORE:  522.5
This business phone systems provider believes in “operating in all facets of business with utmost integrity.” People love the clear mission, open dialogue and emphasis on team achievements. People are proud of the community service commitment and the excellent customer relations.

21. Baird
Portland
rwbaird.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 30 SCORE:  521.6
Wealth management firm Baird is employee-owned, and the employees love it.  They’re motivated to go above and beyond for the firm’s clients. “Ownership drives a positive team-oriented culture,” says one. Baird ethical standards are clearly articulated to staff “and are demonstrated by management at all levels.“

22. Research Into Action
Portland
researchintoaction.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 25 SCORE:  519.8
This market research firm constantly assesses itself to spot ways to improve the work environment. “RIA attempts continuous improvement sincerely.” Sustainability is practiced daily, and staff get behind the green initiative. “In terms of sustainability, our company goes above and beyond.”

23. Pop Art
Portland
popart.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 15 SCORE:  519.4
This digital marketer offers a fast-paced environment for people who want to be part of a juggernaut. The company compensates well and supports staff with the latest technology. As one employee put it, “Good team, good clients, good tools, good pay, good benefits, positive culture. And we have fun doing it.”

24. Pacific Benefit Consultants
Eugene
pbcins.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 34 SCORE:  518.7
Flexible work schedules and a benefits package designed to foster healthy employees are key elements here. Management values employee input and strives to constantly improve the work environment. “My supervisors are very flexible and have complete faith in employees.”

25. Percipio Consulting Group
Portland
percipiogroup.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 19 SCORE:  518.5
This consulting firm helps midsize to Fortune 500 companies understand, define and execute positive change to grow and prosper. Integrity and a win-win culture set the tone for Percipio’s work environment. “We focus on making our clients successful at the same time as our consultants.”

26. Gorilla Capital
Eugene
gorillacapital.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 17 SCORE:  517.8
This privately held real estate investment fund acquires, renovates and sells distressed properties in 21 states. Gorilla’s casual team environment is dog friendly, with outstanding employee perks and a sense that all employees matter. “We create a product that people love while revitalizing neighborhoods.”

27. Empirical
Portland
empiricalux.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 24 SCORE:  517.0
This women-owned technology research company finds the intersection between user needs and client goals to develop the best possible products. With “smart and dynamic” employees and challenging work, employees here feel valued by management ,“who keep the health and happiness of the team in mind while balancing the demands of the job.”

28. Borders, Perrin & Norrander
Portland
bpninc.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 16 SCORE:  516.3
This full service ad agency helps craft the images of a wide range of companies from Columbia Sportswear to the Oregon Lottery. Employees work hard, play hard and are highly valued by managers. “It is rare to find a group that is so cohesive, without ego and so dedicated to the craft.”

29. Grady Britton
Portland
gradybritton.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 20 SCORE:  515.2
With owners always “looking for ways to reward employees,” workers here value “the autonomy to make decisions and solve problems.” This ad agency provides professional development stipends, in-house Friday happy hours and other impressive perks all while turning out award-winning work.

30. Jibe Consulting
Lake Oswego
jibeconsulting.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 30 SCORE:  514.0
Flexibility is a hallmark of this management and technology consulting company. Employees appreciate the company’s willingness to recognize and adapt quickly to market changes, as well as its flexible working hours allowing them to “maintain a work/life balance.”

31. Pittman & Brooks
Portland
pittman-brooks.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 21 SCORE:  513.7
“Respected and valued” is a consistent theme among employees at this full service public accounting firm. “The flex work arrangement is fantastic,” and importance placed on work/life balance is why Pittman & Brooks provides the highest quality accounting and tax services to its clients.

32. PeopleFirm
Portland
peoplefirm.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 18 SCORE:  513.4
This management and HR consulting firm applies its advice to clients to its own management practices. Employees love working here because they’re a “tribe,” and tribal members take care of one another. Great perks like unlimited vacation time, transparency, flex time — driven by “great people with great vision.”

33. Soft Star Shoes
Corvallis
softstarshoes.com
OR EMPLOYEES: 26 SCORE:  511.4
With handcrafted, eco-friendly shoes to order, this Corvallis company cultivates loyalty in their employees. “The owners put so much work, love and care into making it a wonderful place to work for the employees, in addition to a great product and successful business.”

CORRECTION APPENDED: The print edition of the 2016 100 Best list inaccurately refers to ICON Staffing Network as a payroll services firm. The company is a staffing agency.