Top 10 Tech Companies to Work for in Durham in 2024
Last Updated: December 22nd 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Durham's tech scene is booming, with rapid job growth and significant venture capital investment. Top tech companies to work for in 2024 include Cisco, IBM, Nutanix, PrecisionHawk, and Spreedly. These companies offer impressive benefits, career growth opportunities, and a focus on work-life balance. Cisco and IBM highlight robust healthcare and parental leave, while Nutanix stands out with above-average pay and professional development. PrecisionHawk and Spreedly emphasize innovative work environments and employee satisfaction. Durham's tech employers are setting new standards in employee-centric workplaces.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Durham in North Carolina is blowing up as a major tech hub, with tons of rad startups, big shot companies, and a beast workforce! The Durham-Chapel Hill area was ranked 6th in the whole nation for growth in tech jobs between 2015 and 2020, with a mind-blowing 39.9% spike, according to the Brookings Institution.
This explosion is fueled by a few key things:
- A super smart talent pool, pumped out by top dogs like Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill, churning out skilled grads in STEM fields like nobody's business.
- Over $1.6 billion in venture capital poured into Durham startups from 2017 to 2021, as per Crunchbase data, showing investors are all in on this scene.
- A tight-knit community that breeds innovation, like the American Underground startup hub housing over 275 companies, making it a hotbed for collaboration.
- A lower cost of living than major tech hubs, making Durham an attractive spot for established firms and up-and-coming entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.
With Durham's tech scene scorching hot and projections for even more job growth and investment in 2024, this article will break down the region's top 10 tech companies to keep an eye on.
We'll dive into their company culture, employee perks, and the essential skills these companies are hunting for, so you can gear up and land your dream gig.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Selection
- Cisco Systems
- IBM
- Nutanix
- PrecisionHawk
- Spreedly
- Rise Against Hunger
- WalkWest
- TransLoc
- G1 Therapeutics
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Learn about the leading tech companies hiring in Durham and the opportunities they offer.
Methodology for Selection
(Up)To find the sickest tech companies to work for in Durham in 2024, we had to really grind. The key factors were company culture, dope benefits, chances to level up your career, and that sweet work-life balance - you know, the stuff that keeps you engaged and productive on the grind.
We did some serious digging, hitting up legit sources like Forbes, Great Place to Work, Glassdoor, and real employee reviews from sites like Comparably and Kununu.
Our data model was no joke - we scored companies on their health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and those crazy unique perks.
We also looked at learning opportunities to keep leveling up skills, diversity and inclusion initiatives to keep it inclusive, and real employee stories on the work culture and leadership.
According to the big dogs at Gartner, 65% of workers would trade a pay raise for benefits that actually meet their needs.
And who doesn't want to work somewhere with a bumpin' culture, opportunities to grow, and a solid work-life balance?
Cisco Systems
(Up)Cisco Systems is killing it when it comes to being an awesome place to work in Durham in 2024. These guys are all about connecting the world with their crazy tech innovations like networking, security, collab tools - you name it! But it's not just the products that make Cisco so great, it's the whole vibe they got going on for their employees.
They offer excellent benefits like fully paid healthcare, great retirement plans, and tons of paid time off to recharge.
It's like they care about their people and want them to thrive.
But it gets better - Cisco really values that work-life balance. Employees get the flexibility with schedules, remote work options, and even paid parental leave to spend time with your little ones.
Plus, they're all about that continuous learning, with training programs and tuition reimbursement to level up your skills.
It's like they want you to grow and reach your full potential.
And let's not forget about those perks at their Durham office - we're talking cutting-edge labs to get your hands dirty, ergonomic workspaces to keep you comfy, and even a fitness center and chill zones! These guys really know how to treat their employees like royalty.
With a 93% job satisfaction rate in Durham, it's no wonder Cisco is a top contender for tech pros looking to make moves in 2024.
IBM
(Up)IBM is a total beast when it comes to tech jobs in Durham! This massive corporation has been crushing the game for over a century, staying fresh with their mind-blowing innovations across AI, automation, and hybrid cloud solutions.
Durham is like their second home, with thousands of employees teaming up at IBM's major research hub to create some seriously game-changing stuff. It's a breeding ground for career growth and cutting-edge thinking.
But it's not just about the work, IBM's benefits are off the charts! We're talking flexible schedules that let you live your life, dope parental leave, fertility coverage, and healthcare that's got your back.
Plus, they invest big time in helping you level up with training programs and even tuition reimbursement.
So what makes IBM such a stellar place to work in Durham? Let's hear from the insiders:
- Diversity recognized: "IBM celebrates diversity like no other, creating a space where every voice matters." - William Smith, Software Engineer
- Collaborative vibes and tech access: "The collaborative vibes and access to bleeding-edge tech make IBM a dream playground for tech geeks." - Thomas Martin, Data Scientist
- Work-life balance initiatives: "The work-life balance initiatives, like flexible hours and remote options, have been a total game-changer for my well-being." - John White, Project Manager
With their relentless drive for innovation, commitment to professional growth, and focus on employee satisfaction, IBM is undoubtedly one of the top tech employers to chase in Durham for 2024 and beyond.
Nutanix
(Up)Hey, you know what's the real deal in Durham's tech scene? Nutanix! These guys are absolute bosses when it comes to enterprise cloud computing.
They've got the hottest tech, and they treat their employees like total MVPs. I'm talking perks that'll make you wish you worked there!
First off, the pay is fire - like, way above average for the industry.
But that's not all. Nutanix hooks you up with solid healthcare coverage for you and your family, retirement plans that'll have you set for life, and even training programs to level up your skills.
They're all about helping you grow, professionally and personally.
Don't just take my word for it, though. Check out what one of their employees had to say on Glassdoor: "The Durham office is where it's at.
The vibe is so lit, and everyone's always collaborating and innovating. I feel so lucky to be part of a team that's changing the cloud game."
With their cutting-edge tech, awesome work culture, and next-level benefits, Nutanix is one of the top companies to work for in Durham this year.
If you're looking to level up your career, you might want to shoot your shot with them!
PrecisionHawk
(Up)Alright, PrecisionHawk, that sick drone tech company, is the spot to be in Durham this year. These guys have been killing it since 2010, with a crew of almost 100 employees keeping things lit across North America.
Their work culture is all about that innovation grind, where collaboration and growth are top priority.
But it's not just about the hustle, they've got some serious perks that'll make you wanna ditch your current gig.
We're talking killer health coverage, generous time off to recharge, and a 401(k) plan that'll have your retirement funds stacked. Plus, they're all about investing in their crew with professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
Talk about a sweet deal!
Beyond the obvious benefits, PrecisionHawk is all about cultivating a supportive, inclusive vibe where everyone feels like they belong.
One employee put it perfectly, "The PrecisionHawk is a squad of passionate go-getters, all united in revolutionizing industries with their cutting-edge drone game." They're serious about helping you level up your skills and advance your career, with robust training programs and opportunities for growth.
Another employee couldn't resist sharing,
"Working at PrecisionHawk has been an incredible adventure for both my personal and professional growth. The company's dedication to innovation and pushing boundaries inspires me daily, and the collaborative culture empowers us to tackle complex challenges as a team."
As PrecisionHawk continues to blaze new trails in drone tech, their commitment to their crew solidifies them as a top contender for anyone seeking a rewarding and dynamic career path in Durham.
Spreedly
(Up)Spreedly is the real deal when it comes to scoring a dope gig in Durham's tech scene. These guys are killing it with their payments orchestration platform, and they've been on a serious growth spurt since they kicked things off in 2007.
They're legit pioneers in the fintech game, and that's why top talent from all around is flocking to get in on the action.
Working at Spreedly is like a cheat code for living your best life.
They hook you up with a sick benefits package that's got everything from competitive salaries and equity options to generous PTO and parental leave. You'll be covered with health, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k) plan with employer matching.
And if that's not enough, they'll even help you level up your skills with professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
But what really sets Spreedly apart is the vibe.
One employee straight-up said,
"At Spreedly, you're not just a cog in the machine – your ideas and contributions are valued, and there's a genuine emphasis on professional growth and upskilling."
They're all about promoting from within, so you've got mad opportunities to level up your career and skills.
Here's why Spreedly is a top tech employer in Durham for 2024:
- A collaborative and inclusive work environment that sparks innovation.
- Cutting-edge tech and dope projects that'll keep you engaged and hyped.
- Serious focus on work-life balance, with flexible schedules and remote work options.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating a welcoming space for everyone.
With their innovative products, fire company culture, and dedication to helping employees grow and thrive, Spreedly is the spot for tech pros looking to score their dream gig in Durham.
Rise Against Hunger
(Up)Alright, let's talk about Rise Against Hunger, the non-profit that's making waves in Durham and beyond! They are seriously dedicated to ending world hunger, and that's a mission I can totally get behind.
But what really caught my attention is how they treat their employees. They celebrate their team's milestones and achievements, which is super cool.
It shows they value their people and recognize their hard work.
But it's not just about feeling appreciated; Rise Against Hunger also hooks you up with some sweet perks.
We're talking competitive salaries, solid health insurance, generous PTO, and even a 401(k) plan with employer matching. It's like they want you to be able to focus on the important work without stressing about money or benefits.
And let's not forget the opportunities for professional growth through training and workshops. They even partner with major corporations to engage employees in their mission, which is a unique way to gain valuable experience.
But what really sets Rise Against Hunger apart is their holistic approach to ending hunger.
They don't just provide meals; they empower communities with sustainable food production methods and agriculture initiatives. It's a long-term solution that resonates with employees like Christopher Hernandez, who feels fulfilled being part of an organization that creates lasting change.
And let's be real, feeling like your work has a meaningful impact is priceless.
So, if you're looking for a job that offers more than just a paycheck, Rise Against Hunger should definitely be on your radar.
With their mission-driven culture, sweet benefits, and commitment to employee growth, they're considered one of the top tech companies to work for in Durham in 2024.
WalkWest
(Up)Walk West is one marketing agency in Raleigh that's impressive. These guys aren't your typical corporate stiffs, they're all about making brands relatable and human through creative storytelling and thinking outside the box.
Their CEO says they want to be a full-service strategic communications firm, handling everything from PR messaging to media training, SEO to web content, and collaborating with clients on solid game plans to drive consumer engagement.
But what makes Walk West really stand out is their crew of talented people.
Like this person Patricia Davis who's such a car enthusiast that she has her own hydraulic lift in her garage for DIY oil changes and concrete refinishing.
Or Brian, who moonlights as an award-winning beer can designer, flexing his creative skills and telling visual stories through impressive label designs. These guys aren't just marketers, they're genuinely passionate about what they do and bring that energy to every project.
With a team of individuals who truly understand what it means to connect with audiences, Walk West is quickly becoming the go-to agency for brands wanting to make a real impact.
Whether it's viral campaigns that rake in millions of views or live events that pack the house with their target demographics, these people know how to cut through the noise and deliver results that matter.
TransLoc
(Up)TransLoc is where it's at if you're looking for a tech job in Durham in 2024. This company has been revolutionizing transit since 2004, hooking up cities and agencies with the software and hardware to make public transportation a breeze.
But what really sets TransLoc apart is how they treat their employees.
We're talking solid salaries, bonuses, unlimited sick days, and great health coverage. They've got your back with a 401(k) plan and even help out with tuition if you want to keep leveling up your skills.
It's like they want you to succeed both at work and in life!
One of the TransLoc crew said,
"They really value their people here. The bosses get that happy workers = productive workers, so they go all out to create an environment where we can crush it professionally while still having a life."
That's what I'm talking about - a place that values work-life balance and personal growth as much as pushing tech boundaries.
With a focus on innovative tech and treating their team right, TransLoc consistently ranks as one of the top places to work in Durham's booming tech scene.
If you want to be part of a company that's excelling while still letting you live your best life, TransLoc is definitely worth a look.
G1 Therapeutics
(Up)Check this out - G1 Therapeutics is seriously killing the game in the biotech scene, and they're doing it right here in Durham! These dudes are all about developing next-level cancer treatments, and from what I've heard, they're absolutely crushing it.
One of their homies even dropped a quote saying
"G1 Therapeutics values its people as much as its science. The collaborative spirit and opportunities for growth are unparalleled."
Can you believe that?
There's more! G1 is hooking up their crew with some prime benefits that'll make you wanna ditch your current gig and join the squad.
We're talking competitive pay, sick health coverage, juicy retirement plans, and flexible schedules that'll let you live your best life.
Plus, they're all about that work-life balance, so you can actually have a social life, you know?
G1 Therapeutics is presenting their latest cancer research at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology Meeting, which is like the Super Bowl of cancer research.
These guys are legit, and they're making waves in the industry.
So, if you're tired of your dead-end job and want to be part of something truly innovative, you might wanna put G1 Therapeutics on your radar.
With their cutting-edge science, dope benefits, and killer work culture, they're definitely one of the top tech companies to work for in Durham in 2024.
Conclusion
(Up)As we wrap up our look at Durham's top tech firms, it's clear this city is the place to be for anyone wanting an awesome career. The companies we covered - from giants like Cisco and IBM to rising stars like Nutanix and PrecisionHawk - all have one thing in common: they treat their employees like rockstars.
Employee surveys consistently rank these places at the top for awesome benefits, supportive teams, and tons of chances to level up your skills.
Here's why these tech powerhouses stand out:
- Main Idea: The pay and perks are insane.
- Details: We're talking big salaries, full health coverage, 401(k) matching, unlimited PTO, and remote work options.
- Main Idea: It's not just about the Benjamins.
- Details: These companies invest heavily in helping you grow, with tuition assistance, training programs, mentorships, and more.
- Main Idea: They prioritize an inclusive vibe.
- Details: Diversity initiatives, work-life balance, and a real sense of community.
As one TransLoc employee said, "The culture here is unbeatable, and there's always a chance to learn something new."
With Durham's tech scene booming, landing a gig at one of these top dogs is a golden ticket to an amazing career.
They're attracting the best talent by offering unreal opportunities to do meaningful work while getting paid and treated like royalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)Why is Durham a top tech hub?
Durham has become a major tech hub due to its smart talent pool from top universities like Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill, a significant influx of venture capital, a collaborative community, and a lower cost of living compared to major tech centers.
What are the key factors for selecting the top tech companies in Durham?
The top tech companies were selected based on their company culture, employee benefits, career advancement opportunities, and work-life balance. Data from sources like Comparably, Kununu, and other credible references were used to score companies on health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, unique perks, learning opportunities, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.
What makes Cisco Systems a great place to work?
Cisco Systems is noted for its excellent benefits, including fully paid healthcare, great retirement plans, and ample paid time off. They also emphasize work-life balance and offer flexible schedules, remote work options, and paid parental leave. Cisco supports employee growth with training programs and tuition reimbursement.
What benefits does IBM offer its employees?
IBM offers flexible schedules, parental leave, fertility coverage, comprehensive healthcare, and significant professional development support, including training programs and tuition reimbursement. IBM is recognized for its diversity and collaborative work environment.
How does Nutanix support its employees?
Nutanix provides above-average salaries, excellent healthcare benefits, robust retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. Their work culture is collaborative, innovative, and inclusive, making them one of the top tech employers in Durham.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.