Best Companies in Chicago

Alzheimer's Association

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at the Alzheimer’s Association say they find deep purpose in their work toward ending Alzheimer’s, which drives high job satisfaction. Staff describe a compassionate, inclusive culture where colleagues support each other and celebrate meaningful successes. They mention solid benefits and flexible policies that help maintain balance, along with opportunities to develop professionally in a respected nonprofit. Many feel their contributions are valued by leaders who communicate a clear mission and encourage innovative ideas in outreach and research. Employees take pride in the organization’s integrity and community impact.

Baker McKenzie

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Baker McKenzie highlight a supportive team environment despite the fast-paced legal work. Staff report that the firm offers excellent training, mentorship, and global career opportunities that help them grow, along with competitive pay and benefits. Many appreciate the firm’s commitment to diversity and pro bono work, as well as efforts to allow flexible schedules to improve work-life balance. There’s a sense of stability in an established firm that still embraces innovation, and employees feel leadership values their development and open communication.

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Chicago Transit Authority employees feel proud to serve the city and often mention strong training programs that turn jobs into lasting careers. Staff say CTA offers solid benefits and a supportive, diverse workplace where coworkers are courteous and professional. Many appreciate the job stability and clear communication from leadership about goals, as well as a culture of innovation focused on improving public transit. Employees also value the union-supported pay and work conditions and enjoy giving back through volunteer initiatives, reflecting CTA’s commitment to the community.

CME Group

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at CME Group say they work at the cutting edge of finance and technology in a collaborative environment. Team members describe generous compensation and benefits, and they appreciate flexible policies like remote work options that promote work-life balance. Many note that the company encourages continuous learning and career advancement, with opportunities to take on new challenges in a global marketplace. Employees feel secure working for a stable industry leader that still innovates rapidly, and they value the leadership’s open communication and commitment to integrity and community engagement.

Conagra Brands

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Conagra Brands employees describe a friendly, collaborative workplace dedicated to making beloved food products. Staff appreciate comprehensive health benefits, wellness programs, and flexible schedules that help them balance work and personal life. Many say the company supports growth through training and opportunities to work on different brands and projects, fostering both innovation and career development. Employees feel their ideas are heard in a culture that values diversity and inclusion. They also note that Conagra’s leaders prioritize ethical practices and community outreach, which makes them proud to work there.

EVERSANA

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at EVERSANA say the company’s patient-focused mission creates an exciting, rewarding workplace. Team members note a collaborative culture where departments work together to innovate in healthcare services. They mention good benefits and competitive pay, as well as programs supporting work-life balance, like flexible hours or remote options. Many employees see clear paths for advancement with the company’s expansion and strong learning culture. They feel the leadership team communicates openly and upholds ethical practices and community partnerships, making them proud to be part of EVERSANA.

Exelon Corporation

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Exelon employees say they enjoy working for a stable energy company that serves millions. Staff members report excellent benefits and competitive pay, noting programs like tuition assistance and training that support professional growth. Many appreciate Exelon’s emphasis on safety and innovation, as teams are encouraged to find new ways to improve energy reliability and sustainability. Employees feel a strong sense of job security and teamwork, and they praise leadership for fostering an ethical, inclusive culture and supporting community initiatives.

Guaranteed Rate

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Guaranteed Rate often highlight the company’s innovative, wellness-focused culture. Staff enjoy working in a collaborative open office and appreciate perks like an on-site gym and healthy, low-cost meals that help maintain work-life balance. Many mention strong career development through training programs and opportunities to grow in different fields. They also note competitive pay and feel supported by leadership that values their well-being. Employees are proud of the friendly environment and the company’s foundation that helps colleagues in need, reinforcing a caring community.

Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC)

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Health Care Service Corporation employees often mention the organization’s strong sense of purpose and stability as a healthcare leader. Staff say HCSC provides excellent health benefits and solid retirement plans, along with programs supporting work-life balance. Many report an inclusive culture where diversity is valued and colleagues collaborate to solve big healthcare challenges. They appreciate opportunities to grow across different teams and adapt within a company invested in new ideas. Employees feel secure with HCSC’s steady growth and praise leadership for upholding ethical values and community health initiatives.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Hyatt employees say the company truly lives its purpose of caring for people. They describe an inclusive, supportive culture where coworkers feel like family. Colleagues highlight generous travel perks, wellness programs, and comprehensive benefits that demonstrate Hyatt’s commitment to their well-being. Many mention abundant career development opportunities, noting that managers encourage growth and promote from within. Employees feel secure at a stable, respected hospitality brand that still embraces innovation. They also appreciate Hyatt’s community involvement and approachable leaders who listen to feedback from the front lines.

Illinois Institute of Technology

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Illinois Institute of Technology employees take pride in the university’s mission of innovation and learning. Staff members say IIT fosters a collaborative culture where colleagues work together to help students succeed. They appreciate strong benefits — including educational perks — and a workplace that allows flexibility for work-life balance. Many mention opportunities for professional development, such as training and taking courses to grow their skills. Employees feel secure in a stable academic environment that values diversity and community outreach, and praise leadership’s vision for the university’s future.

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL)

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) describe a collaborative, inclusive atmosphere at the global real estate firm. Staff say they benefit from comprehensive health plans, ample paid time off, and wellness programs that support work-life balance. Many appreciate the opportunities for career advancement and skill development, noting that JLL’s international presence lets them pursue growth in different locations or departments. Employees feel secure at a financially strong company known for integrity, and they value leaders who encourage innovation in sustainability and give back to local communities.

Kirkland & Ellis

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Kirkland & Ellis thrive in a high-performance environment paired with a strong support system. Staff say the firm provides excellent training, mentorship, and resources to help them advance in their legal careers. Many appreciate the merit-based culture where initiative is rewarded, along with competitive compensation and benefits. Despite demanding workloads, employees note that colleagues and partners are collaborative and invested in everyone’s success. They also value the firm’s commitment to pro bono work and diversity initiatives, and feel leadership is transparent in communicating goals and celebrating success.

Levy Restaurants

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Levy Restaurants employees describe a people-focused culture that emphasizes hospitality and the “power of nice.” Staff say teamwork is strong and colleagues help each other shine. They enjoy perks like free or discounted meals and solid benefits, and many note that the company values diversity and inclusion. Employees feel there are opportunities to advance — whether at headquarters or in venues across the country — thanks to the company’s growth. They are proud of Levy’s community involvement and praise approachable managers who lead by example and value employee input.

McDonald’s Corporation

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
McDonald’s Corporation employees say the company’s culture blends an innovative, tech-driven energy with its storied brand heritage. Staff mention excellent benefits and perks at headquarters, along with modern workspaces that encourage collaboration. Many appreciate the ample training and education programs, noting the company’s commitment to internal growth through initiatives like Hamburger University. They also enjoy a healthy work-life balance with flexible schedules and family-friendly policies. Employees feel company leaders listen to their ideas and steer McDonald’s with strong values, a focus on innovation, and genuine engagement in communities.

Mondelez International

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Mondelez International employees enjoy being part of a global snacking leader that values its people. Staff describe a welcoming, collaborative culture with free treats and modern workspaces that spark creativity. They say compensation and benefits are competitive, and programs like tuition assistance and wellness initiatives support their well-being. Many point to strong opportunities for career growth, including chances to work on famous brands or international projects. There’s also pride in Mondelez’s focus on sustainability and community programs, and employees appreciate leaders who champion innovation and listen to feedback.

Morningstar Inc.

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Morningstar employees often praise the company’s open, flexible work environment. Staff say the culture is collegial and supportive, with a focus on learning and collaboration. They mention a healthy work-life balance – including flexible hours and remote options – and appreciate a benefits package that includes ample paid time off. Many value the chance to work alongside smart colleagues on projects that push innovation in financial research. Employees feel secure at a stable, well-managed firm and find senior leaders approachable and transparent in guiding Morningstar’s mission.

Motorola Solutions

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Motorola Solutions employees highlight a respectful, team-oriented culture where individuals feel valued. Staff often mention the strong work-life balance — including flexible arrangements — and the excellent benefits the company provides. Many take pride in contributing to an industry leader whose products help keep communities safe, and they appreciate Motorola’s investment in innovation and research. Employees describe the workplace as collaborative and supportive, with leadership that communicates clearly and upholds high ethical standards. This stability and openness make employees feel secure and motivated in their roles.

Northern Trust

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Northern Trust employees often describe the culture as friendly, caring, and collaborative. Staff say colleagues and managers genuinely help each other grow, creating a supportive atmosphere. They note that Northern Trust offers a good work-life balance – with flexible schedules and understanding management – plus competitive benefits. Many employees build long-term careers here, thanks to clear development pathways and a philosophy of promoting from within. They also take pride in Northern Trust’s commitment to community service and diversity, and feel leadership communicates openly while upholding strong values and stability.

Northwestern Medicine

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Northwestern Medicine employees say they are inspired by a patient-first mission and a strong sense of teamwork. Staff describe a culture of compassion and excellence, where colleagues collaborate to deliver high-quality care. They appreciate comprehensive benefits, including health coverage and wellness programs, and value flexible scheduling that acknowledges the demands of healthcare work. Many mention opportunities for career advancement and ongoing learning across the organization. Employees feel proud of Northwestern’s innovations in patient care and community health outreach, and they trust leaders who communicate a vision and support their teams.

Relativity

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Relativity employees say the company maintains a startup-like energy where new ideas are welcomed and teamwork is key. Staff describe an open, casual workplace that still emphasizes high performance. They appreciate perks like flexible work arrangements and team events, alongside solid benefits and competitive pay. Many mention ample learning opportunities and clear paths to advance their careers as the company grows. Employees also value Relativity’s commitment to inclusion and community—volunteering and outreach are encouraged—and feel leadership communicates transparently and genuinely cares about employee well-being.

Ronald McDonald House Charities

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Ronald McDonald House Charities employees say working for a mission-driven organization that supports families in need is deeply fulfilling. Staff describe a warm, compassionate culture where everyone is dedicated to helping others and teamwork is second nature. They mention solid benefits and the resources of a global charity, and say the biggest reward is seeing the positive impact on families. Many appreciate the healthy work-life balance and flexibility the organization offers. Employees feel inspired by caring leadership and a shared sense of purpose that makes each day meaningful.

Rush University Medical Center

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Rush University Medical Center employees often say that a supportive, team-based culture sets this hospital apart. Staff describe an environment where all colleagues collaborate and everyone’s contributions are valued. They mention excellent benefits, including healthcare coverage and tuition reimbursement for education, showing Rush’s investment in its people. Many highlight opportunities for professional growth and continuous learning, as well as scheduling options that help maintain work-life balance. Employees take pride in Rush’s commitment to diversity, community health, and medical innovation. They feel leadership cares about both patients and staff.

Sargent & Lundy

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Sargent & Lundy employees say the company offers a rewarding environment for engineers who want to make an impact. Team members describe a collaborative culture and feel supported by mentors and management on challenging projects. Many highlight competitive pay and strong benefits, noting that the firm values employee well-being. They also appreciate a work-life balance and see opportunities to grow through training and varied assignments. Employees are proud of Sargent & Lundy’s long-standing stability and its focus on innovation and quality, and they value that leaders are approachable and encouraging.

Sprout Social

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Sprout Social employees describe an upbeat, people-first culture where values like kindness and humility guide everyday work, and new hires feel welcomed by supportive teammates. They highlight strong benefits and an “incomparable” work-life balance – flexible hours and remote-friendly policies make it easy to manage life outside work. Many note that dedication is recognized, as promotions and growth opportunities are common for those who contribute. Employees are excited to be part of a growing, innovative tech company and praise leadership for being transparent, approachable, and invested in their well-being.

ThoughtWorks

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
ThoughtWorks employees say the company’s culture is innovative, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating. Staff work in teams that embrace diverse perspectives to solve challenging problems in technology and consulting. They appreciate benefits like flexible schedules and a real focus on work-life balance. Many highlight opportunities for skill development and career growth, from continuous learning programs to chances to work on impactful global projects. There is also pride in ThoughtWorks’ commitment to social responsibility and tech for good. Employees feel empowered by leadership’s emphasis on employee well-being and growth.

TransUnion

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
TransUnion employees say the company maintains a welcoming, energetic culture. Staff describe friendly coworkers and supportive management that encourages innovation. They appreciate the good pay and solid benefits, as well as the company’s emphasis on work-life balance and flexibility. Many mention that TransUnion offers opportunities to advance or learn new skills, given its focus on technology and global presence. Employees also value the company’s “workforce for good” mindset – using data for positive impact – and feel leadership communicates clearly and cares about doing the right thing.

United Airlines

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
United Airlines employees often talk about a culture built on professionalism, safety, and a shared passion for travel. Staff say they feel well-treated, citing good benefits, competitive pay, and travel perks that let them explore the world. Many highlight United’s thorough training programs and opportunities for advancement, reflecting a commitment to developing its people. Employees also value the strong teamwork across the organization and take pride in United’s efforts in community support and sustainability. They feel leadership strives to do right by both customers and employees, which inspires loyalty and enthusiasm.

University of Chicago

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
University of Chicago employees say they are proud to work at a renowned institution. Staff describe an intellectually vibrant workplace where colleagues collaborate on meaningful projects. They appreciate the university’s generous benefits – from ample paid time off to tuition assistance and health coverage – which support them. Many note there are opportunities for professional development and career growth within the organization. Employees also value the University’s engagement with the local community and its culture of inquiry. They feel inspired by leadership’s dedication to advancing knowledge and supporting the community.

Winston & Strawn

Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Winston & Strawn employees say the firm combines high standards with a supportive, respectful culture. Staff across all roles report feeling valued and included. They mention great benefits and competitive pay, as well as wellness programs that help with work-life balance in a demanding field. Many appreciate the firm’s commitment to mentorship and career development, noting they learn a great deal from experienced colleagues. Employees also value Winston & Strawn’s efforts in diversity and community service, and feel the firm’s leaders foster an environment of integrity and transparency.