Best Places to Work in Colorado

In an employment landscape increasingly characterized by job-hopping and in many cases downright desperation by companies to attract and keep top talent, the winners and runners-up in the Best Places to Work in Colorado program profiled below have created workplaces that set a high bar when it comes to valuing employees during work hours and beyond.

Best Places to Work in Colorado is a research-driven program that examines participating companies’ practices, programs and benefits, surveying both employers and employees for their perspective on issues such as pay and benefits, corporate culture and communication, role satisfaction, work environment, relationship with supervisor, training and development.

In addition to identifying outstanding workplaces, the surveys provide actionable data that companies use to improve employee recruitment and retention.

We congratulate the companies below that have distinguished themselves as among the Best Places to Work in Colorado.

Location: Boulder
Number of employees: 28

As a Certified B Corporation and woman-founded firm, BSW Wealth Partners is on a stated mission to reshape the wealth management industry – one core value and innovative perk at a time.

“We’re in the business of making life better, and that starts with our own team,” the company says. “BSW employees are the heart and soul of this organization, so we are determined to cultivate a workplace that inspires and fulfills them.”

One of the more endearing recognition and/or appreciation programs at BSW noted on the Best Places to Work survey is a monthly anniversary lunch where “employees tells stories and their coworkers remind them of all the reasons they are loved.”

Another way they’re reminded they’re loved: The firm contributes 3% of an employee’s annual salary to their 401(k) whether or not they contribute from their paycheck. Additionally, BSW will provide a company match of up to 3% of employee’s annual compensation. Employees become eligible to contribute to their retirement plan on their first day of hire. BSW also pays 100% of employees’ health-care coverage premiums.

Location: Aspen, Carbondale and Denver
Number of employees: 40

Forum Phi is an award-winning architecture firm known for its distinctive mountain design style in the resort communities of Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Wyoming and Montana.

The firm believes that a great business and a great culture go hand in hand. It maintains that culture across its three office locations.

“The flexibility in work environment and location, understanding that everyone has a personal life they are trying to balance with their work, and protective policies and benefits put in place to promote a healthy work/life balance and support our team pervades,” says Partner Jennifer Olson. “It is as important to Forum Phi to be a great place to work and have a fantastic culture as it is to run a healthy and sustainable business, with the goal of transitioning the firm to the next generation of leaders.”

Rebecca Olson, associate/senior interior designer (no relation to Jennifer), says a sense of connection among employees extends beyond work. “We prioritize building relationships through team outings like ski days, mountain biking adventures, and rafting trips — embracing the beauty and adventure of our surroundings,” she says. “With flexible schedules, exceptional benefits and a commitment to innovation, we’ve created an environment where creativity flourishes, teamwork drives success, and life outside the office is just as rewarding.”

Location: Estes Park
Number of employees: 15 year-round/210 seasonal

Cheley Camps has been in business for 104 years and has been widely recognized as one of the top summer camps in the country. President Jeff Cheley says people enjoy working for the organization because of its commitment to staff and their families. It’s also fulfilling work.

“People are attracted to Cheley because of the mission to positively impact our young people,” Cheley says. “They stay with Cheley because the organization supports each person’s growth and understands how important it is to focus on your family.”

More than 70% of the full-time staff have been associated with Cheley for over 10 years; 40% of the staff have over 20 years of connection with the organization.

“Over half of our staff worked at Cheley, left to pursue other opportunities, and chose to return to Cheley because they loved our team and our mission,” Cheley points out.

“Families are encouraged to send their children to camp for free for one session,” he adds. “We also provide day care for children during our busy summer months.  During our slower season, we allow flexible work hours to accommodate family needs.”

A notable aspect of Cheley’s retirement plan is that it matches dollar for dollar of the first 3%, and 50% of the next 2%.  The company also provides 14% of salary after two years of employment for its profit sharing plan.

In the spring, everyone received a $200 bonus to use toward fitness/wellness.

Location: Edwards
Number of Employees: 100

Eagle County Paramedic Services (ECPS) is the only emergency medical-services agency in Eagle County, operating up to 14 ambulances in five stations, covering nearly 1,700 square miles.

“Our commitment to providing exceptional out-of-hospital care is paramount, and we cultivate a culture that fosters growth, supports paid training and encourages the pursuit of excellence,” the agency says. “Our employees are given myriad opportunities to fulfill their potential, enabling them to achieve expertise in the care they provide. ECPS understands the emotional toll that this profession can take; we have implemented a range of benefits to enhance the overall well-being of our employees.”

Among those measures is a unique shift schedule that enables four straight days off for those who are OK with two nights away from home.  The agency also implemented a 12-hour shift for those who prefer that schedule.

The benefits package at ECPS includes health, dental, vision, life and accident insurance, generous paid time off, a flexible spending account (FSA), employee assistance program (EAP), an excellent retirement plan and a housing assistance program.

“Our employees feel like family – they work together, recreate together and even sometimes vacation together,” the agency shared on its Best Places to Work survey.

One employee shared on the survey that ECPS goes to considerable lengths to help employees build a life in the area. “We live in a resort area and it’s expensive and difficult to find housing,” the employee pointed out. “ECPS created a housing assistance program that will either: serve as a cash buyer; provide down payment assistance or provide funds to build an ADU. Debt is forgiven 10% each year (of employment).”

Another employee pointed out in the survey ECPS’s support of EMTs and paramedics in continuing education. “We’ve had paramedics travel to Alaska for search and rescue training and work for a month in the Grand Canyon. If an employee is interested, it will likely happen!”

Location: Littleton
Number of Employees: 70

“At CCU, we offer more than just a job for our employees, but that of a vibrant workplace,” the company says. “At CCU, our employees feel connected and engaged. Our values reflect why CCU is the best place to work, and why our camaraderie has led to such a strong company culture.”

The company believes a healthy work-life integration is crucial for sustained success. Its policies prioritize flexibility and adaptability, allowing employees to manage their personal and professional lives. Examples include remote work options and generous paid time off.

“We strive to accommodate our team’s diverse needs and promote overall well-being,” the company says. “We believe that when our employees feel cared for and respected, they can bring their best to their work. Additionally, we live by the motto ‘spoil the member,’ encouraging our team to be kind above all else.”

CCU offers four levels of medical plans: 1) Tailored to those with dependents/spouses; 2) Fully covered for employee-only coverage; 3) Platinum level for those looking for better coverage at affordable prices; 4) HDHP (high-deductible health plan) with a $150/monthly HSA contribution.

HONORABLE MENTION (in alphabetical order)

Location: Glenwood Springs and Avon
Number of Employees: 41

Employee-owned Colorado Pool + Spa Scapes has been in business for over 40 years. The company strives to provide clients with a unique pool and spa experience in resort communities.

Most of the company’s employees are locally based out of the Roaring Fork and Vail Valleys, allowing them to live and work in one of the country’s most beautiful areas. Benefits include a matching 401(k), flex time scheduling, wellness reimbursement, charity matching, ski pass discounts, recruitment bonuses and product discounts.

The company uses the EOS – Entrepreneurial Operating System to run the daily operations. EOS is a set of business concepts, principles and tools that help leadership run a more successful business.  Colorado Pool + Spa Scapes provides industry, business and management training to help employees further their careers. Every department has tiers that employees can complete to progress in their career journey. The company has under 50 employees but has implemented a culture, benefit and training package like much larger companies.

Location: Golden
Number of Employees: 40

DT Construct upholds a strong set of core values — communication, transparency, results-oriented, integrity and efficiency — that guide every endeavor, and that goes for employees as well as clients.

DT Construct pays 100% of employees’ health coverage base plans and offers a matching 401(k) plan. Unique benefits include baby showers for employees, football pools, company movie nights, and picnics for employees and vendors.

Location: Denver, Vail
Number of Employees: 58

East West Partners has developed some of the world’s top resort and urban communities, hotels and office buildings.

“We exist to create terrific places that bring people together, sharing meaningful experiences. We develop new communities, and improve existing ones, in ways that add lasting value,” the company says. “We aim to amplify what people love most about where they live, work and vacation. We not only enjoy the outdoors, we actually develop to enjoy the outdoor world. And we strive to be known as trusted partners and one of the best places in which to build a career.”

Employees receive an annual $1,200 Wellness Bonus to be used for whatever wellness means to them: ski pass, new bike, mental health maintenance, etc. The company auto-enrolls all employees at 6% in the company’s 401(k) plan. Employees can then waive their participation. The company re-enrolls them each Jan. 1 if they waive the enrollment. This has resulted in 80% participation in the 401(k) plan.

East West Partners’ Snowmass office has access to an excellent fitness studio, SBV Fit, and the Avon office has access to a state of art fitness center, The Athletic Club Westin.

“East West Partners founder Harry Frampton instilled entrepreneurial spirit into our company that empowers our team to make decisions and have ownership and pride in our work. And, CEO Chris Frampton has carried that legacy on and has created a fun and rewarding work environment where everyone learns from one another making our work and time at East West Partners fulfilling.”

Location: Denver
Number of Employees: 7,431

Forvis Mazars LLP is ranked among the largest accounting firms in the U.S., providing assurance, tax and consulting services for clients in all 50 states and internationally through a global network.

Employees at the firm can take advantage of flexible schedules and hybrid work environment. The firm provides free or discounted tickets to local family entertainment or sporting events

“Forvis Mazars truly values its people and the communities it serves,” the company says. “They go above and beyond to prioritize the well-being of employees and their families as well as encouraging staff to give back and serve their communities.”

Location: Headquartered in Atlanta, with two offices in the Denver area
Number of Employees: 3,990

One Digital’s insurance, financial services and HR platform provides personalized, tech-enabled solutions for businesses and individuals.

“We strive to be an organization where our people and all those we serve can do their best work and live their best lives,” the company says. “With a focus on development, diversity and well-being, we hire people who are among the best and brightest in the business. Our culture is about inclusion, collaboration, high performance and opportunity.”

OneDigital’s retirement plan matches 50% of employee contributions up to 7%, and employees may contribute either through the traditional or Roth 401(k).

“Working at OneDigital is more than a job,” the company says. “It is a calling to serve, a place where we are improving the lives of millions of people every day. We prioritize a people-first, high-performing culture and we strive to make meaningful change in the lives of our people, our clients and in our communities each day.”

Location: Englewood
Number of Employees: 33

Reata Engineering delivers comprehensive machining and assembly services for businesses specializing in complex medical products, semiconductor capital equipment, aerospace, defense and industrial products.

The company strives to cultivate a “people first” mentality and family atmosphere.

“Employees are encouraged to provide feedback to keep morale high,” the company says. “All voices are important and heard. Employees are given opportunities for personal development and professional growth.  Management acknowledges and rewards longevity and loyalty. Communication within the organization is open and ongoing, providing a feeling of inclusion. There is a considerable effort put into hiring and maintaining a diverse and enthusiastic workforce.

Reata employees are fully vested in the company’s retirement plan on day one of employer match, which starts after one year of employment.  The company also has a discretionary profit-sharing plan.

Location: Denver
Number of Employees: 63

Titan Fittings is a leader in distributing and manufacturing hydraulic products. Over the past decade, the company has experienced rapid growth yet remains committed to small-business values.

“At Titan Fittings, every employee is considered an invaluable asset,” the company said in explaining what makes it a great place to work. “We deeply value the hard work and dedication of our team, which is why we continuously invest in advanced software, equipment and tools to enhance their efficiency and workflow.”

Recognizing the importance of work-life balance, Titan maintains a Monday through Friday schedule to ensure employees enjoy quality time with their families on weekends.  The company offers a 401(k) matching program and standard medical benefits.

The company’s attire policy allows for jeans and sneakers, fostering a relaxed and productive environment. A fully stocked soda fridge is available to all employees, and every Friday morning, Titan provides breakfast to start the day off right.

Additionally, its Friday afternoon happy hours serve to build morale and encourage inter-departmental connections.

“Our company events are a true reflection of our family-oriented culture. We welcome up to six family members per household to join in the festivities and participate in raffles, ensuring that our employees’ families feel like part of the Titan family.”