Top workplaces, large: 4. Cox Communications

Cox Communications is the highest-ranked noncasino company in Las Vegas when it comes to top workplace designation.

Cox ranked fourth on the list behind three resorts in the rankings of companies of 1,000 employees or more.

“I think it’s a great acknowledgment of Cox and the culture that we try to foster here within our workplace,” says Mike Bolognini, the cable company’s marketing vice president. “We care about our employees and encourage them to be proactive and empower them to do what’s best for the customer, and empower them to do the right thing.”

Employees enjoy an environment where they have an opportunity to voice how the business is run and how operations can be improved, Bolognini says. The company recognizes the importance of a work-life balance. Employees are even allowed to further the company’s charitable and community endeavors during work hours.

“We expect a hard day’s work, but we understand the importance of family and personal time and giving back to the community,” Bolognini says. “We are a family-owned company. Employees are treated like they are family. That’s part of the culture of Cox, and it permeates every being of leadership. You don’t see that in most organizations.”

Cox offers an adoption assistance program that provides up to $5,000 a year in adoption-related expenses for one child and up to $10,000 for two children. That includes agency and legal fees, court costs and travel expenses. The company also helps with costs for expensive fertility treatments.

Cox reimburses employees up to $5,000 a year for tuition to help them with their degree plans and certifications that will enable them to advance within the company.

When it comes to medical care, Bolognini says it’s important to take care of the health of employees and their families. Employees and their partners receive a blood panel screening outside of the normal medical deductible, Bolognini says. As an incentive to participate in 2013, they were each given a $50 gift card. However in 2014 the incentive was increased so that employees will receive a $180 payroll credit or a $360 payroll credit if the employee’s partner also gets the screening. The program has helped save lives within the company by identifying illnesses early, he says.

Cox is a rare company that offers a pension to its employees if they have worked there for at least 20 years. They can also receive retirement medical coverage, he says.

Bolognini also cites the annual Employee Service Awards Luncheon as an opportunity to formally recognize employees for their longevity with the company. The service awards — given in five-year increments — allows Cox to thank its employees for their loyalty and dedication. The award is associated with a gift, plaque and recognition letter.

Cox employees are also eligible to receive discounted and sometimes free services at their homes.

In a survey of employees, many say Cox empowers them to do the right thing for customers and creates an atmosphere that encourages creative thinking. Several say they like that they are entrusted to make decisions.

“Cox takes care of its people,” one employee says. “I strongly believe that Cox understands that people are their most valuable and important asset. By providing their employees with great benefits and an enjoyable work environment, they get more tenured employees who will stay with this company as long as possible.”

“If you treat employees the way you want yourself to be treated and empower them to do what is right by the customer, they will be proud to work for the company,” Bolognini says.