Mapping the Culture and The "Aha!" Moment

100% Employee-Owned: What It Actually Means for Your Career at SWCA

When searching for your next career move, you might prioritize meaningful work and flexible scheduling, but at SWCA, there is one major differentiator that changes the entire foundation of how we operate: we are 100% employee owned. “Employee ownership creates a culture where we are all genuinely invested in each other’s success,” explains Project Manager Jamie Young. “It fosters a highly collaborative environment built on mutual respect and what we proudly call a ‘no jerks’ philosophy.” This unique structure goes far beyond financial details; it dictates how we collaborate, share knowledge, take true accountability, and actively champion each other’s career development.

Our Culture of Employee Ownership and Shared Success

During initial interviews, candidates frequently ask what the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) looks like in practice. Rather than just corporate jargon, it represents a supportive retirement opportunity. While candidates often ask about traditional retirement plans, our ESOP and 401(k) program are designed to serve as complementary components of SWCA’s overall retirement and benefits package. For employees who meet the ESOP’s eligibility requirements, the plan provides a company-funded retirement account tied to an ownership interest in SWCA. SWCA makes contributions on behalf of these eligible employees, and while it is not required, employees also have the option to make their own contributions to a 401(k).

SWCA has established an annual retirement benefit target of 4% to 6% of eligible compensation, although actual benefit levels vary from year to year based on company performance, available cash, anticipated company investments, and Board-approved contribution levels. Because not all SWCA employees are employee-owners, it is important to recognize that employees in non-regular roles remain fully eligible to participate in the 401(k) program. Ultimately, the ESOP reflects SWCA’s commitment to sharing in the company’s success with employee-owners while supporting long-term financial well-being across our broader suite of employee benefits. Participation, benefits, and account values are subject to plan provisions, vesting requirements, and company performance.

That shared investment dictates our everyday environment. Because employee ownership is central to SWCA’s culture, team members are encouraged to think and act with a shared sense of responsibility for the company’s success. This means your colleagues are committed to continuous learning and championing your growth, knowing that your evolving expertise elevates the entire firm. We never settle for average results, taking immense pride in our environmental work because we own those outcomes together. Joining SWCA means stepping into a role where your voice matters, your long-term financial well-being is supported, and your success is actively championed by the people sitting beside you.

Explore our open roles and discover what it means to be an employee-owner at SWCA.