6 Top Tech Companies To Work For in Seattle

In recent years, Seattle has emerged as one of the nation’s fastest-growing tech hubs—with a large pool of talent that rivals Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.

In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that workers in the Seattle-Bellevue-Everette Metropolitan area had an average hourly wage of $41.60 in May 2023 —about 24% higher than the national average of $31.48 per hour.

With these statistics in mind, it is clear to see why Seattle is a hot spot for talent in the tech industry. Below is a curated list of companies that professionals and job seekers looking for tech jobs in Seattle, and have the desire to break into the scene, should keep their eye on.

Top tech companies in the Seattle area

1. Amazon

One of the most renowned tech industry leaders and a dominant force in the Seattle tech scene is, of course, Amazon.

Amazon’s famed Seattle campus comprises more than 40 buildings featuring a wide array of amenities, including mother’s rooms, prayer rooms, game rooms, and more. The company is also well known for allowing its employees to achieve a successful work-life balance by supporting telecommuting, flexible work environments, and community-oriented workspaces.

At any given time, Amazon’s Seattle campus has thousands of open jobs listed in categories such as software development; technical project, program, and product management; and systems, quality, and security engineering.

Because each of these positions requires its own unique mix of skills and experience, earning an advanced degree that aligns with the desired skill set and offers real, hands-on experiential learning can help you stand out from the competition and get your foot in the door. A Master of Science in Project Management, Computer Science, or Leadership & Management can all be good choices.

2. Google

Google has grown to become a cornerstone of the global technology landscape, excelling in areas from cloud computing to artificial intelligence. Google inspires innovation and progress by making information universally accessible and useful. The company’s mission revolves around organizing the world’s information and making it universally accessible, a philosophy that permeates every product and service.

Google stands out not just for its technological advancements but for its commitment to user-centric design and innovation. One of Google’s philosophies is “Focus on the user and all else will follow.”

By following this approach, Google ensures that the products and services developed are not only technologically advanced but also genuinely improve users’ lives. Google is dedicated to data-driven decision-making, which makes it an ideal environment for those who thrive on creativity and data analytics.

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, often shares insights into the company’s culture and innovation strategies. He highlights how Google’s openness to experimentation and failure has been crucial in its development of groundbreaking technology that impacts billions globally.

“At Google, we are technology optimists,” Pichai says. “Not because we believe in technology, but because we believe in people.”

For professionals eager to be part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of technology, Google’s career opportunities in Seattle are vast, ranging from software engineering to project management. With ongoing expansions, Google consistently offers roles that challenge the norms and push for technological boundaries. Possessing specialized degrees in fields like Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, or Human-Computer Interaction can significantly elevate a candidate’s prospects within the company.

3. Meta

Meta, formerly known as Facebook, rebranded to reflect its strategic shift towards building a comprehensive metaverse. Meta was founded in 2004 and continues to push the boundaries of social networking and digital platforms, focusing on immersive virtual reality experiences that connect people in innovative ways. The company’s mission is to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together, a vision that extends into every facet of its operations.

Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO, often speaks about the company’s core mission: “to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together.” This mission is reflected in the enthusiastic, solution-oriented team that strives to redefine the boundaries of digital interaction.

The benefits of working at Meta are extensive, encompassing competitive health benefits, a robust 401(k) plan, and generous parental leave policies. These are complemented by a workplace environment that promotes balance and wellness with flexible work arrangements and state-of-the-art office facilities.

With a growing presence in Seattle, Meta is continually on the lookout for fresh talent, especially individuals skilled in software engineering, AR/VR technology, and cyber security. The company values advanced education and specialized knowledge, making candidates with degrees in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Virtual Reality highly sought after for their innovative projects.

4. Microsoft

Another iconic resident in Seattle’s tech scene is, of course, Microsoft. The tech giant established its headquarters in Redmond, Washington, just outside of Seattle, in 1986 and has continued to expand ever since. Today, the enormous campus is roughly eight million square feet and accommodates 30,000 to 40,000 employees. Those who work at Microsoft are able to take advantage of the various benefits of the expansive headquarters including unique outdoor meeting spaces, nearly two dozen cafes and restaurants, and multiple sports areas.

Microsoft’s corporate culture is yet another highlight of joining this large team. Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the Microsoft community and greatly influence how the team operates. Within the company, employees have created nearly 50 communities focused on career development, support, mentoring, and other areas to help promote cultural awareness, and team members are invited to join these groups or even create their own. Jennie Lay-Flurrie, chief accessibility officer, says, “Our commitment to empowering every person and organization on the planet to achieve more includes building out accessibility features in our existing products and services.”

Since Microsoft is such a large company, there is no surprise that there are always employment opportunities available for professionals in the tech industry. If you are interested in seeing what positions are currently open, be sure to keep an eye on the job openings at Microsoft’s Redmond Campus. A Master of Science in Information Systems or Innovation are good examples of in-demand advanced degrees that are held by many Microsoft employees.

5. Oracle

Oracle, a global powerhouse in the world of software and cloud technologies, provides a wide array of enterprise solutions that include cloud computing, database technology, and enterprise software products. Oracle’s extensive product line helps businesses enhance their operations through streamlined processes and improved data management. The company’s main office in Seattle serves as a critical hub for its cloud operations and product development.

The Seattle office of Oracle is a vibrant workplace where approximately 5,000 employees engage in innovative projects and collaborative efforts. This location is renowned for its spacious, modern office spaces designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Oracle regularly organizes community events and social activities, encouraging a sense of camaraderie among team members and their families.

Oracle’s commitment to the community is evident in its numerous philanthropic initiatives and volunteer programs that focus on education, community-building, and environmental sustainability.

Oracle offers a wealth of career opportunities across various tech disciplines. Positions available often include roles in cloud engineering, database management, and software development. The company seeks professionals who are not only technically proficient but also eager to drive technological advancements.

For those looking to join Oracle, having a robust educational background in fields like Computer Science, Cloud Computing, or Database Management can be particularly advantageous. Oracle values expertise that contributes to innovative solutions and sustained technological leadership.

6. Apple

Apple is a renowned global leader in technology and innovation. The company is known for its comprehensive ecosystem, which includes a range of products such as the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and services like Apple Music and iCloud. Founded in 1976, Apple has evolved to become a defining force in consumer technology. The company’s office in Seattle focuses heavily on software development and cloud computing, reflecting its commitment to continuously enhancing its technological offerings.

Working at Apple offers a myriad of benefits. Employees enjoy comprehensive health coverage, retirement savings plans, education reimbursement, and generous parental leave policies. Flexible work arrangements are also a staple, supporting a balance between personal life and professional responsibilities. Apple’s culture is deeply rooted in innovation and inclusiveness, fostering an environment where every employee is encouraged to think differently and contribute uniquely.

According to team leaders at Apple, what sets the company apart is its unified vision and commitment to innovation: “At Apple, we’re not just creating products; we’re creating experiences that aim to enrich our customers’ lives in meaningful ways.”

Apple’s expanding presence in Seattle opens up numerous opportunities across various departments, from software engineering and AI research to cloud infrastructure and design. The company is continually on the lookout for top talent to join its ranks.

For those aspiring to join Apple, a solid educational foundation in fields such as Software Engineering, User Experience Design, or Artificial Intelligence greatly enhances prospects. Advanced degrees that focus on integrating technology and creativity can particularly resonate with Apple’s forward-thinking ethos.

Endless opportunities for growth in Seattle

As one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the United States, Seattle is filled with top technology companies and offers a dynamic environment where motivated individuals can join and influence the future of technology.

The companies highlighted above represent just a snapshot of what this region offers. Each company brings opportunities for ambitious tech professionals, from established giants like Amazon and Microsoft to innovative players like Apple and Meta.

Our partnership with Northeastern University in Seattle provides a direct pathway for students to engage deeply with this booming ecosystem. Our co-op program offers students the unique opportunity to gain invaluable real-world experience by working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry. This experiential learning not only enhances their skills but also strengthens their resumes, making them highly competitive candidates in the job market.

Explore more about how our educational programs and partnerships can serve as your gateway to a fulfilling career in the Seattle tech industry. Discover the skills you’ll develop and the networks you’ll build while thriving on technology and innovation.