More than 2,300 companies were nominated or asked to participate in the 2018 Top Workplaces contest by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and its partner, Energage (formerly Workplace Dynamics). Employees across the metro area responded to print and online solicitations that began appearing in September.
Using survey results, a list of 150 workplaces was compiled, consisting of 25 large companies (listed below; 500 or more employees), 50 midsize companies (150-499 employees) and 75 small companies (149 or fewer employees).
2. Dorsey Alston, Realtors
Dorsey Alston, Realtors is in the top five for the fourth consecutive year and was the 2016 winner in the midsize employers category. The private firm was founded in 1947 by Roy Dorsey and Robert Alston. Now led by President Michael Rogers, Dorsey Alston has 252 employees and two offices, in Atlanta and Marietta. Dorsey Alston is the winner of the 2018 Top Workplaces Training special award. Training opportunities include continuing education courses, contract classes, and discussions and weekly meetings with brokers and their agents. In addition, employees applaud the trust, respect and 24/7 support that they say helps them provide high-quality service to clients.
3. Egg Harbor Cafe
Egg Harbor Cafe, a private family-owned company, landed in the top five on its first year on the list. It has 800 U.S. employees, including 200 in its four metro area locations in Atlanta, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs and Marietta that are open for breakfast and lunch. Founded in 1985, the Lincolnshire, Ill.-based company had $43 million in global revenue in 2016. Its pay is in the top 1 percent for starting managers in the industry, the company notes. Employees also receive paid vacation, individual retirement account matching and end-of-year bonuses. Workers say they feel involved in decisions and appreciate the communication at Egg Harbor, winner of the 2018 Top Workplaces Communication special award.
4. Cobb Pediatric Therapy Services
Cobb Pediatric Therapy Services is a top 10 company for the third consecutive year in the midsize category and winner of the 2018 Top Workplaces Managers special award. The Kennesaw-based private staffing firm, founded in 1989, provides speech, occupational and physical therapists to school systems. Its 400-plus employees—with 164 in metro Atlanta—receive benefits such as a $25,000 life insurance policy and professional liability insurance. The company pays 50 percent of employee-only premiums for base medical and dental plans; it also offers vision, short- and long-term disability and flexible spending accounts. Other benefits include a 401(k) with matching funds, an employee assistance program and 12-month pay options. Cobb Pediatric pays fees for new therapist licensure and credentials.
5. MiLend
MiLend moved up from 10th in 2017 to the top five this year, and President Mark Granigan is the winner of the 2018 Top Workplaces Leadership in a midsize business special award. The Atlanta-based mortgage lending company has 173 employees and plans to grow to 235 employees in the next year. Revenue in 2016 was $450 million. The company said it seeks to foster employee growth by offering above-industry standard salaries, signing bonuses and benefits, such as medical and dental insurance and paid time off. Since MiLend was founded in 1995, employees have raised money and sponsored community outreach programs for more than 100 organizations, such as Autism Speaks and MUST Ministries.
