Best Companies in Grand Rapids
ADAC Automotive
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at ADAC Automotive appreciate the company’s strong commitment to quality and safety, noting that these values create a workplace they can trust. Team members say they receive solid benefits and fair pay, and they feel the company cares about their well-being both on and off the job. Many highlight a collaborative culture where long-time employees mentor new hires, which helps everyone grow in their careers. There’s pride in ADAC’s innovative auto parts and continuous improvement mindset, and staff feel secure working at a stable, family-founded company that invests in its people and adapts to industry changes.
Amway
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Team members at Amway say the company offers a supportive culture and exceptional benefits that make them feel valued. Many mention enjoying competitive pay, generous time off, and wellness perks that help them maintain work-life balance. Employees describe abundant career opportunities and cross-functional experiences at Amway, noting that leaders encourage them to grow and innovate. People also feel a sense of purpose through the company’s global outreach and community initiatives. Overall, staff report strong trust in management’s vision and appreciate the stability of a family-owned business that invests in its workforce.
Bissell
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
People working at Bissell often highlight the company’s generous benefits and unique perks. Employees mention competitive pay, low-cost health plans, and even half-day Fridays that boost work-life balance. The company offers a modern, flexible work environment — including hybrid schedules — and colleagues describe an inclusive, collaborative culture. Many feel they can advance their careers at Bissell with supportive managers and training opportunities. Staff also take pride in Bissell’s community involvement, like its pet adoption initiatives, and appreciate that leadership values innovation in products while caring deeply about employee well-being.
Custer
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Custer describe a creative and close-knit workplace where new ideas are always welcome. They enjoy a flexible and modern office environment that the company itself designs, which helps make daily work more comfortable and collaborative. Staff say the benefits package covers their needs well and that managers show genuine concern for work-life balance, often supporting flexible schedules. There’s a strong culture of professional growth — employees get to learn about cutting-edge workplace technologies and take on new responsibilities. Overall, team members feel valued at Custer, citing its supportive leadership and active involvement in community projects.
Dematic
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
At Dematic, employees report an exciting environment driven by innovation. Team members work on cutting-edge automation and software projects, which keeps their jobs engaging and future-focused. They say the company offers competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, reflecting its commitment to taking care of its people. The culture is described as collaborative and fast-paced, with leaders who encourage new ideas to improve processes. Many employees appreciate the professional growth opportunities — like training on the latest technologies and chances to advance in a growing industry. There’s also pride in Dematic’s global impact on supply chains and its local community involvement, which adds purpose to their work.
Founders Brewing Co.
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Founders Brewing Co. employees enjoy a uniquely fun and passionate workplace rooted in craft beer culture. Team members say the atmosphere is collaborative and down-to-earth — it’s not unusual for coworkers to bond over new brew ideas after work. People appreciate the good benefits and perks (like beer discounts and lively company events) that make work-life balance feel more enjoyable. There’s a sense of pride in being part of an award-winning brewery, and employees feel encouraged to innovate and be creative. Leadership is described as open and approachable, and staff value the company’s efforts to give back to the local community and make everyone feel welcome.
Gordon Food Service
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Gordon Food Service say the company’s family-owned values really shine through in the workplace. They report excellent benefits and solid pay that help them feel taken care of, and many appreciate the stability of a company that’s been around for generations. Staff describe a supportive team environment where coworkers and managers pitch in to get the job done, whether in the office or out in the field. There are ample opportunities for advancement and training, and employees feel their hard work is recognized. Many also note the pride they take in GFS’s community involvement and charitable food initiatives, which make their work even more meaningful.
Hart & Cooley
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
At Hart & Cooley, employees often mention the pride of working for a company with over a century of history. They feel job security knowing the business is stable and well-established. Team members describe the workplace culture as tight-knit and safety-focused — many coworkers have been there for years and look out for each other. Employees say the pay and benefits are dependable, helping take care of their families. There are opportunities to learn new skills in manufacturing and move up over time, and leadership encourages suggestions for improving processes. Staff also appreciate Hart & Cooley’s involvement in community and sustainability efforts, which adds to a sense of purpose in their work.
Independent Bank
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Independent Bank employees talk about the friendly, community-driven atmosphere they experience on the job. They enjoy working for a local bank that values personal service and integrity — many say it feels like helping neighbors rather than just customers. Staff report good benefits and a healthy work-life balance, with reasonable hours and supportive management that understands family needs. The culture is one of teamwork and trust, where everyone pitches in and celebrates wins together. Employees also have opportunities to grow, whether it’s through training programs or moving up to new roles. They take pride in Independent Bank’s involvement in local charities and financial education, and appreciate that leadership genuinely cares about the community and its employees.
Lacks Enterprises
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Lacks Enterprises highlight the company’s innovative spirit and steady growth in the automotive industry. They feel proud to work on cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and say management constantly seeks improvements. Team members appreciate Lacks’ solid benefits and competitive wages, noting that these help take care of their families. The culture is described as collaborative and forward-thinking but also down-to-earth — many people have been there for years, creating a family-like environment. Employees see opportunities to develop their skills and advance as the company expands. They also value Lacks’ commitment to sustainability and community projects, which makes them feel part of something positive beyond their day-to-day work.
Meijer
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Meijer employees say they feel part of a big family at this regional retail chain. Whether in stores or at headquarters, staff appreciate a supportive culture focused on customers and community. They point to good benefits, employee discounts, and flexible scheduling options that help with work-life balance. Many have grown their careers at Meijer, moving up from entry-level roles with the help of training and mentorship from caring managers. The company’s stability and continued growth give workers a sense of job security. Employees also take pride in Meijer’s community involvement, such as food donations and local charity support, and they feel leadership listens to their feedback and cares about their well-being.
Mercantile Bank of Michigan
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
At Mercantile Bank of Michigan, employees describe a personable workplace where community values are at the forefront. They appreciate the bank’s excellent benefits and fair pay, making them feel valued. Team members say Mercantile offers a healthy balance between work and personal life — management promotes reasonable hours and supports family needs. The culture emphasizes teamwork, integrity, and helping local businesses, which gives employees a strong sense of purpose. There are clear paths for career advancement; people have opportunities to take on new challenges and grow within the company. Employees also value Mercantile’s active community involvement, and they feel leadership is approachable and focused on doing the right thing for both staff and customers.
Metro Health (University of Michigan Health-West)
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Metro Health (University of Michigan Health-West) employees describe a supportive, close-knit culture that feels like a family. They appreciate the emphasis on work-life balance — colleagues mention flexible scheduling and understanding supervisors, which is noteworthy in healthcare. Benefits and wellness programs are considered excellent, helping staff feel cared for while they care for patients. Being the region’s community hospital with a big university affiliation, Metro Health offers employees unique opportunities for training and professional growth, along with a sense of stability. Team members are proud of the hospital’s patient-first values and community wellness initiatives. They also say leadership is approachable and committed to innovation in care, which inspires confidence and loyalty among the staff.
National Heritage Academies
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at National Heritage Academies say they are driven by the meaningful mission of educating and empowering children. Teachers and staff describe a supportive culture that values teamwork and innovation in the classroom. Many appreciate the comprehensive benefits and time off aligned with the school calendar, which help maintain a good work-life balance. The organization provides ample professional development and clear pathways for career growth, whether one aims to become a lead teacher or move into administration. Employees feel that leadership listens to feedback and is committed to continuous improvement. They are proud of the positive impact their work has on students and communities, and they find purpose knowing the company emphasizes character and community engagement.
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Staff at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services are passionate about their roles in helping people, and they describe a caring, team-oriented workplace. They appreciate a culture where colleagues and supervisors support each other through the challenges of mental health care. Many note that benefits and paid time off are generous, which helps them recharge and maintain personal wellness — an important factor in this field. Employees mention that their pay is fair and that Pine Rest offers chances to develop professionally through training and education. They take pride in the organization’s faith-inspired mission and community outreach programs. Overall, team members feel valued by leadership and believe they are making a real difference, which keeps morale high.
Pridgeon & Clay
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Pridgeon & Clay say the company combines a family atmosphere with cutting-edge manufacturing. Team members take pride in producing high-quality automotive components and appreciate the company’s investment in new technology and training. They note that Pridgeon & Clay provides solid benefits and competitive pay, making them feel valued. The culture emphasizes safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement — ideas from the factory floor are welcomed by management. Many employees have built long careers here, moving into more skilled roles thanks to on-the-job training and mentorship. Staff also recognize Pridgeon & Clay’s involvement in technical education and local charities, which makes them proud. They describe leadership as approachable and committed to innovation and employee well-being.
Ranir
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Ranir employees enjoy working for a company that helps people smile. Team members feel connected to the mission of providing affordable oral care products, and they’re proud that their work reaches consumers worldwide. The company offers comprehensive benefits and competitive pay, and since joining a larger healthcare group, employees feel they have added resources and stability. Ranir’s work environment is described as friendly and innovative: new product ideas are encouraged and teams often collaborate across departments. Many appreciate the manageable work hours and support for work-life balance. They also note opportunities for professional growth, whether through training or stepping into new roles as the company expands. Staff credit Ranir’s leadership with maintaining a close-knit, caring culture even as the company has grown.
Rockford Construction
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Rockford Construction love seeing the tangible impact of their work on the Grand Rapids community. They say the company fosters a team culture where everyone from project managers to field crews collaborates and takes pride in building quality projects. Safety and well-being are emphasized on job sites, and workers feel that their health and family time are respected, which helps with work-life balance in a demanding field. The company provides good benefits and competitive pay, and many employees have advanced through the ranks as Rockford grows. Team members also admire Rockford’s commitment to ethical business practices and sustainable building — they feel a strong sense of purpose knowing their projects improve neighborhoods. Leadership is described as forward-thinking and supportive, often celebrating successes and listening to staff feedback on ways to improve.
Roskam Baking Company
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
At Roskam Baking Company, employees enjoy a blend of tradition and innovation. Many have been with the company for years and describe a family-like culture where everyone works together to produce popular food products. They appreciate the stable work environment and say Roskam provides solid benefits and fair wages. On the production floor, safety and quality are top priorities, and workers feel proud knowing their high standards put trusted treats on grocery shelves. The company also offers chances to learn new skills and move up — employees often mention being promoted from within as the business grows. Staff value Roskam’s community spirit as well, noting that the company gives back through food donations and local events. Overall, employees feel that leadership cares about both the products and the people, creating a respectful and supportive workplace.
Selkirk
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Selkirk employees take pride in the company’s long-standing reputation for quality in the HVAC industry. They work on products that keep homes safe, and that sense of purpose brings coworkers together. The culture is close-knit and supportive — with a small team, everyone’s contributions are noticed. Employees say Selkirk provides good benefits and fair pay, and they feel secure knowing the business has been stable for decades. Despite the company’s age, team members are encouraged to innovate and make products more efficient and sustainable. Many have learned new skills through on-site training and moved into roles with more responsibility. Staff appreciate that leadership is accessible and open to ideas, and they value Selkirk’s engagement in the local community, which makes them feel connected to their work.
SpartanNash
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
SpartanNash employees are proud to work for a company that feeds families and supports military communities. They describe a culture built on service and integrity, where everyone — from warehouse teams to corporate offices — understands the mission. Employees say they receive good benefits and competitive pay, and they feel valued for their hard work. SpartanNash’s long history and steady growth give people a real sense of job security. Team members appreciate that the company promotes work-life balance with predictable schedules, even in a busy 24/7 logistics environment. Many have advanced their careers here, climbing from entry-level to higher positions thanks to training and mentorship. Employees are also enthusiastic about the company’s community outreach — from supporting veterans to fighting hunger — and they feel leadership is down-to-earth and keeps everyone motivated and informed.
Spectrum Health
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Spectrum Health employees often mention how rewarding it is to work in a mission-driven environment. They feel a strong sense of purpose helping patients and say this shared mission creates a supportive team spirit across hospitals and clinics. Staff report that benefits are excellent — comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and tuition assistance — which makes them feel valued. Despite the demands of healthcare, employees appreciate efforts to promote work-life balance, like flexible scheduling for many roles. Spectrum also invests in professional development; workers mention chances to learn new skills and advance into higher positions. There’s pride in the organization’s innovation and adaptability, as staff get to use cutting-edge technology and see new treatments being adopted. Employees also value Spectrum’s community wellness outreach. Overall, they feel leadership communicates a clear vision and listens to feedback, which builds trust in the organization’s direction.
Steelcase
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Steelcase employees talk about a workplace that practices what it preaches about great work environments. They appreciate the modern offices and flexibility — many note that work-life balance is respected, with normal hours and options to work from home when needed. Benefits are frequently praised, from comprehensive health plans to generous retirement contributions, making staff feel well taken care of. The company encourages professional growth; employees mention access to training, mentorship programs, and the ability to explore different roles. Steelcase’s culture is described as inclusive and collaborative, where diverse ideas are valued in the design of new products and solutions. Team members also take pride in Steelcase’s community involvement and sustainability efforts. They feel that leadership leads by example, communicating openly and fostering a vision of innovation and integrity that inspires the whole team.
Stiles Machinery
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Stiles Machinery employees describe a forward-looking company that invests in its people. They appreciate working with advanced manufacturing technology in the wood industry, which keeps their jobs interesting and helps them continually learn new skills. The company offers extensive training programs, and many team members say they’ve grown their careers at Stiles thanks to certifications and mentorship. Employees also note that the benefits are solid and the company respects work-life balance — managers do their best to accommodate personal time, even when schedules are busy. The culture at Stiles is described as supportive and customer-focused; colleagues collaborate to solve problems and celebrate successes together. Staff feel secure working for a stable industry leader and take pride in the craftsmanship and quality that Stiles upholds. They also say leadership communicates clearly and cares about employee well-being, making them feel valued and heard.
Supply Chain Solutions
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Supply Chain Solutions describe an agile, innovative workplace in the logistics field. They enjoy a fast-paced environment that keeps their work engaging, and they value the supportive culture where colleagues help each other meet goals. Despite the busy industry, managers encourage balancing work and personal life, which employees appreciate. The company provides competitive benefits and fair pay, making people feel valued. Teamwork and open communication are core here — even leadership is hands-on and approachable, often brainstorming solutions alongside the team. Many employees have grown their careers with SCS, as the company prefers to promote from within and invest in staff development. People also note that Supply Chain Solutions embraces new technology and ideas to stay ahead, giving them opportunities to learn cutting-edge skills. Overall, staff are proud to work for a company that delivers for its clients while treating its employees with trust and respect.
UFP Industries
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at UFP Industries say the company combines a down-to-earth culture with big opportunities. They take pride that a once-local lumber business is now a global supplier, yet it still feels family-oriented. Team members mention solid benefits and competitive pay, which make them feel valued. The company emphasizes safety, integrity, and customer service, creating a respectful, collaborative atmosphere in both the mills and the offices. Employees also appreciate UFP’s focus on innovation — like developing new wood-alternative products and improving manufacturing processes — which keeps work interesting. There are many chances to advance or try new roles as the company grows. Workers feel secure because UFP adapts to new markets and stays stable even in tough times. They say leadership is approachable and communicates goals clearly while listening to feedback. UFP’s community and environmental initiatives also make staff proud to be part of the team.
Van Andel Institute
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Van Andel Institute say the culture is exceptionally welcoming and collaborative, with colleagues who are passionate about the mission to cure diseases. Staff commend the institute’s excellent benefits and competitive compensation, which — along with a reasonable work-life balance — help them focus on groundbreaking research. The organization provides abundant resources for professional growth, from advanced training to state-of-the-art facilities, fostering innovation and discovery. Team members feel secure thanks to the institute’s stable funding and visionary leadership. They also appreciate VAI’s community engagement in education and outreach, which makes their work feel meaningful beyond the lab.
Varnum
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Varnum say the firm has a truly collegial culture. Lawyers and support staff feel supported in their professional growth — the firm provides mentorship, training, and opportunities to take on meaningful work. While the work can be challenging, people appreciate that Varnum encourages a healthy work-life balance and respects family commitments. Compensation and benefits are competitive, and employees feel their efforts are recognized and rewarded. The culture emphasizes teamwork, client service, and integrity, creating a respectful environment even during high-stakes cases. Employees also find leadership approachable; partners often work closely with junior staff and listen to input. They value Varnum’s involvement in the community through pro bono work and local initiatives. Overall, staff feel part of a team that not only excels professionally but also genuinely cares about its people and community.
Wolverine Worldwide
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Wolverine Worldwide enjoy a host of perks and a team atmosphere built around famous footwear brands. Staff often mention the comprehensive benefits and an on-site wellness center that encourage an active lifestyle and camaraderie. Many feel supported by flexible managers and friendly coworkers, which fosters a positive work-life balance even during busy seasons. The company’s culture emphasizes career growth, with promotions from within and opportunities to expand skills across its many brands. Employees appreciate the stable, long-standing presence of Wolverine in the industry, its community charity initiatives, and leadership’s encouragement of innovation in product design and sustainability.
Zondervan
Why This Company Has Been Nominated:
Employees at Zondervan cherish the company’s mission to provide uplifting content, feeling that their work positively impacts readers’ lives. Team members describe a close-knit, values-driven workplace where colleagues share a passion for their projects and support each other. The company offers solid benefits and a flexible environment, helping employees balance deadlines with personal life. Many staff highlight opportunities for professional growth, from learning new publishing technologies to advancing within the broader organization. They also appreciate the stability that comes with being part of a renowned publishing group and point to approachable leadership that listens and encourages creativity and ethical practices.