Top favored SC employers have Daniel Island ties

When it comes to why people jump ship to a new job, a fatter paycheck often steals the spotlight. It’s the obvious draw – who doesn’t want more money?

But dig a little deeper, and it’s clear that salary isn’t the whole story. Benefits like stellar health insurance, paid time off, or even quirky extras like free snacks can tip the scales just as much.

In a world where top-tier positions with sky-high wages aren’t always up for grabs, employers are left wondering, what else can convince workers to stick around? What makes a job feel less like a grind and more like a place worth staying for?

Careerminds is a global outplacement and career development firm, set out to pinpoint the perks that truly matter, polling 3,023 workers to reveal the top companies nailing employee retention – and why.

In South Carolina, the three most coveted employers are:

#1 Michelin North America

Michelin North America, headquartered in Greenville, equips its South Carolina workforce with onsite health clinics and fitness centers at major facilities, alongside what employees call “the best medical and dental” insurance in manufacturing.

Staff receive an annual profit-sharing bonus targeting 8% of pay and enjoy free tires or discounts, with long-term employees retaining health benefits into retirement.

Regularly featured on Forbes’ “America’s Best Employers” list, Michelin stands out for its family-oriented flexibility and tangible perks, helping solidify its reputation as a top employer in South Carolina’s industrial landscape.

#2 Benefitfocus (Voya Financial)

Benefitfocus, now under Voya Financial on Daniel Island, prioritizes flexibility with hybrid and remote work options, adaptable scheduling, and an enhanced 12-week paid parental leave policy, paired with competitive health insurance.

As a benefits administration company, it “eats its own cooking,” tailoring a robust package that accommodates personal needs. This adaptability stands out in South Carolina, drawing tech talent to Charleston with a relaxed yet supportive workplace.

By balancing work and life, Benefitfocus has earned local admiration for providing a flexible environment to its team in a competitive industry.

#3 Blackbaud

Blackbaud, a Daniel Island-based tech firm, embraces a fully remote-friendly culture, offering unlimited paid time off for senior staff and generous PTO for others, plus up to three extra PTO days earned through company-organized volunteering.

Focused on mission-driven work for nonprofits, Blackbaud promotes work-life balance by encouraging employees to use their time off and engage with the community.

This approach earns high marks for employee happiness. By aligning benefits with its purpose, Blackbaud fosters a supportive environment where staff thrive, making it a standout employer in the Charleston area’s vibrant tech scene.

Nationally, the top 5 companies to work for, based on perks and benefits, are:

#1 Google - California

Google’s reputation for over-the-top employee perks is practically legendary, especially in Silicon Valley, where it’s set the gold standard for years.

Perks include free gourmet meals and endless snacks to keep you fueled, plus nap pods, on-site gyms, and even laundry services.

Beyond the fun stuff, Google doubles down with serious family support – such as extended paid parental leave, fertility assistance, and top-notch health benefits.

Some of the flashier perks have been dialed back lately, but the company still leans hard into a culture of workplace luxury.

They’re betting on a simple idea: happy, well-fed, and stress-free employees get more done. With offices that feel more like vibrant “adult playgrounds” than cubicle farms, Google remains a dream gig for many.

#2 The Coca-Cola Company - Georgia

Down in Atlanta, Georgia, The Coca-Cola Company – arguably the city’s most famous name – serves up a “Total Rewards” package that’s tough to beat.

It includes a rare old-school pension plan paired with a 401(k) match, plus health coverage, tuition reimbursement, and adoption support. From financial security to these playful extras, Coca-Cola’s well-rounded benefits make it one of Georgia’s standout employers.

#3 Ben & Jerry’s - Vermont

Up in South Burlington, Vermont, Ben & Jerry’s keeps things sweet – literally – with three free pints of ice cream a day for every employee.

But it’s not just about the dessert. They offer six months of paid parental leave, livable wages, and plenty of PTO, all wrapped in Vermont’s laid-back, quirky vibe.

Casual dress? Check. Creative freedom? You bet. The ice cream keeps spirits high, while the hefty benefits show a company that genuinely cares.

#4 Hawaiian Airlines - Hawaii

Hawaiian Airlines brings the aloha spirit straight to its workforce. Employees, their spouses, kids, and even parents get unlimited free standby travel on any flight. Plus, there are 20 guest passes a year and hefty profit-sharing bonuses when the company does well.

As Hawaii’s biggest airline, they’ve built a culture of hospitality that extends to their staff, blending travel perks with financial rewards.

#5 Nike - Oregon

Nike’s all about balance – work hard, rest well.

Employees get generous paid time off, extra holidays, sabbaticals for long-timers, flexible schedules, and “recovery days” to recharge.

Career growth is big here too, with tuition reimbursement, mentorship, and plenty of chances to climb the ladder.

On the money side, there’s competitive pay, bonuses (5-30% of salary), a 401(k) match, and a 15% stock discount.

Wellness is everywhere – think full health coverage, mental health resources, and onsite gyms or climbing walls. Then there’s the fun stuff: discounts on Nike and Converse gear, early product drops, parental leave, and even daycare at some spots.

To see the complete list of top companies by state, check out the online graphic.

Provided by Careerminds.