Everybody would love to say that they work at Apple, wouldn’t they? But—let’s face it—no matter how much of a tech giant the company is, it only has so many open spots to fill.

So, what does that mean for you? That you’re destined for a life with a company that isn’t even half as cool?

On the contrary, my friends. From the awesome culture to the employee perks that are sure to inspire envy among all of your pals, there are plenty of other companies that are just as cool as Apple. Check these out, submit your application, and prepare for that inevitable jealousy.

TravelClick

TravelClick helps hoteliers around the globe understand their market, build their brands, and increase their bookings by creating cloud-based, revenue-generating media solutions.

If you’re looking for an employer who lives and breathes the philosophy of, “Work hard, play hard” you’ll feel right at home at TravelClick. Yoga is a regular office activity, and you can often find people playing indoor basketball, cornhole, ping-pong, and other fun games either individually or in all-office teams.

“We have a fun committee, and we’ll have events like sporting events,” says Lauren Rothrock, Product Manager, Reservations Solutions, “This year we did a Mets game in Queens.”

PEAK6 Investments

PEAK6 uses high-speed technology to take advantage of price differences across markets. An untraditional investment firm, PEAK6 uses profits from its trading arm to finance early startup ventures.

The entrepreneurial spirit is palpable at PEAK6, with an energetic pace and an emphasis on bold thinking. In fact, many people describe PEAK6 as a tech company wearing a trading firm’s clothing.

The company is also a big believer in fun—and I mean big, out-of-this-world fun. The office hosts tons of different events, from a speaker series with famous authors to a poker tournament, where the winner is sponsored at the World Series of Poker. And, just when you thought it couldn’t get better, every year PEAK6 hosts a famous musician—like Maroon 5, Bon Jovi, and Keith Urban—to perform for employees.

Blackbaud

Blackbaud provides technology and expertise that helps advance the global philanthropic community by supplying software and services specifically designed for nonprofit organizations.

There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing your work is making a real, positive difference in the world. And, that’s exactly what you’ll get with a career at Blackbaud. Not only is this company’s very purpose to help good take over the world, it drives the point home further with the Day of Caring event.

A favorite among employees, the entire company spends a day out in the community doing various volunteer activities. Want further proof that Blackbaud walks the walk when it comes to doing good? Employees are rewarded with extra vacation time for hours they’ve spent volunteering.

Target

Since 1962, this world-famous retail store has combined the affordability of a discount chain with department store-quality merchandise, prioritizing innovation and philanthropy every day.

Progressive is one of the best words to describe Target’s company culture. In fact, many employees assert that Target is really a startup masquerading as a Fortune 500 company. Where else can you find a combination like that?

The company believes in empowering employees to do their best work, including allowing team members to work in whatever way suits them best. Let’s just say that Target’s pioneering spirit can only be matched by companies like, well, Apple.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is the world’s leading travel site for reviews and advice on hotels, resorts, flights, vacation rentals, travel packages, and more—so people can plan and book the perfect trip.

As the largest travel site in the world, it’s obvious that TripAdvisor knows how to accomplish big things. But, that doesn’t mean this company never cuts loose.

TripAdvisor recognizes the importance of creating a space and a culture where employees feel laid-back and comfortable in order to keep great ideas flowing freely. And, from the on-site culinary team and the game room to a private pub right in the office, it’s safe to say that this company is willing to do what it takes to pull those great ideas out of its team members.

Already picturing yourself in TripAdvisor’s private pub? Submit your application now!

Bluewolf

Bluewolf is a global business consulting firm, innovating business processes and technologies to help companies accelerate customer engagement and drive sales.

There’s no denying that BlueWolf is innovative, and the company is always on the lookout for passionate employees who can help the team continue to reach new heights. “You get hired at Bluewolf for your potential, ideas, creativity, and your desire to be successful,” shares Caryn Fried, Head of Global Talent Management.

However, don’t think that you’ll be trapped in the office day in and day out. Employees have the independence and freedom to work when and where they want to. The best part? Team members also have the option to work in multiple countries through Bluewolf’s Global Rotation Program.

Volusion

Volusion offers budding and established businesses an all-in-one e-commerce solution with 24/7 support that proactively helps entrepreneurs build and manage successful online stores.

Micromanagement isn’t something you’ll find in the Volusion office. In fact, management believes the best way to achieve awesome results is to hire amazing people, give them the resources they need, and then step back and let them do their work.

Want perks? Volusion has those too. From unlimited PTO, beer Fridays, and on-site concierge dry cleaning to chair massages, yoga classes, and bring-your-dog-to-work days, chances are high you’ll never want to actually leave the office.

Intercom

Intercom gives online businesses a voice when speaking with customers by streamlining conversations through a communication platform that also makes targeted messaging natural and personal.

If jet-setting between San Francisco and Dublin, Ireland for company projects and events sounds like a dream come true, then you’ve officially found your calling at Intercom. With offices in both locations, Intercom employees enjoy the opportunity to fly between both amazing cities.

When teammates aren’t in the air, Intercom keeps the creative juices flowing through show-and-tell Fridays (which are combined with happy hour!) and regular game and yoga nights.

Are your bags packed? Apply for one of Intercom’s open jobs now!

Cornerstone OnDemand

CSOD provides workplace planning software that allows businesses to focus on HR employee strategy plans—instead of paperwork—to improve performance as well as profit.

Despite the fact that Cornerstone has grown leaps and bounds in terms of client size, dollar exchange, and product offerings, employees know that the company’s close-knit, startup culture isn’t going anywhere. “I can be myself here,” shares Mobile Product Manager Isadora Dantas. “It’s a very informal environment, and I feel I can say what I’m thinking—and have the support of my team.”

That supportive, familial culture pays off—in more ways than one. Cornerstone just made Fortune Magazine’s list of Best Large Workplaces in Tech.

MuleSoft

MuleSoft is revolutionizing the way the world connects apps, data, and devices with their integration platform that’s transforming businesses.

As a company that’s quite literally powering the future of business innovation by defining a new category of software, it’s safe to say that MuleSoft is doing some pretty big things.

But, the company recognizes that it takes amazing people to make those things happen—which is why MuleSoft places so much emphasis on culture with initiatives like the MuleSoft Meetup (where all 650 and counting employees get together each year!), family day, and waffle Wednesdays. “We preserve our startup culture—even as we’re rapidly growing as an organization,” explains Shuba Swaminathan, Manager of Solution Consulting.

San Diego Zoo Global

The San Diego Zoo envisions a world without extinction and plans to make it a reality by saving species worldwide.

If you can’t think of any job cooler than helping to lead the fight to end extinction, I can’t blame you. And, that’s just one of the many things that makes San Diego Zoo Global an awesome place to work.

From Amazing Race-inspired company holiday parties and a monthly themed potluck to the fact that you can stroll to check out the newest baby giraffe during your lunch break, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more unique office.

“I’ve never worked anywhere before where when I’m walking into work I can follow a cheetah being walked by trainers across the grounds,” adds Tim Rupe, Senior Operations Manager.

JINX

JINX is the premier online lifestyle apparel and fashion brand retailer for gamers and geeks, selling licensed merchandise inspired by the video game culture.

When you spend your days producing licensed clothing, toys, and collectibles for the gamer community, you can only assume that impromptu office video game tournaments are bound to break out every now and then.

Needless to say, they’re frequent occurrences for the team at JINX, who battle it out for bragging rights as well as extra paid vacation hours.

Want to play video games on the job? Well, you’ve finally found a company that encourages doing so. You know what to do next.

Core Digital Media

Core Digital Media is a top online marketing and lead generation company—providing innovative customer acquisition business solutions.

Employees at Core Digital Media take work and play very seriously—constantly challenging each other to exceed, yet finding good humor in everyday moments at the same time. The company fosters a fun-loving, productive environment where everyone can thrive.

“The office culture at Core Digital is very transparent, very growth-oriented, very people friendly, and always willing to accept new ideas or experiment,” shares Software Engineer Director Deepak Vashishtha.

Belly

Belly streamlines consumer loyalty by helping businesses build relationships with customers, giving companies a new way to collect analytics while strengthening connections with devoted shoppers.

Unlimited paid vacation, casual office attire, and free snacks from the lounge are all perks that come along with life as a Belly employee. But, beyond that, Belly team members agree that there’s one thing that makes working for this company so special: the people.

Teams and managers actively seek bonds with every newbie as an individual, and not just as an employee. Belly turns new team members into life-long employees by providing awesome opportunities to grow and genuine acts of camaraderie—including chess tournaments, guacamole cook-offs, and lunches with the CEO.

Hirevue

HireVue offers high-powered digital video and predictive analytic programs that help businesses, big or small, build and coach top teams in every industry.

What’s the first thing a new HireVue employee does? Sits down with his or her manager to set both short and long-term goals. “Like our products, our management is different and innovative,” says Customer Success Consultant Chanta’l Babcock.

That emphasis on personal and professional growth is just one of the things that makes HireVue so special. With a team that loves to laugh together over hilarious gifs and an office that celebrates everything from big company-wide wins to National Hot Dog Day, life at HireVue is never dull and always rewarding.

Ready to join the team and become your best self? HireVue is eagerly awaiting your application.

Penske Motor Group

Penske Motor Group is an industry-leading automotive retailer that owns and operates dealerships throughout California, including Longo Lexus and Longo Toyota in El Monte.

Not too many companies offer the perk of buying almost any car at a substantial discount—except for Penske Motor Group.

The awesome benefits don’t end there. From team barbecues and co-ed sports to a regular bowling night, the employees at this company know how to enjoy a perfect balance between hard work and a lot of fun.

“Overall, it’s just a great place to work where everything you need is at your hands,” shares Internet Sales Director Rene Lawson.

Kasasa

Kasasa is a financial technology and marketing services company—empowering community banking with innovative and rewarding finance resources and products.

Being undefeated winners of “The Austin Cup” and “Best Spirit Award” at Austin’s tech workers’ charity bowling tournament is one of Kasasa’s proudest accomplishments. Well, that and the fact that this company has fostered an amazing culture of empowerment and cheering each other on.

Kasasa’s management style is self-empowering, straightforward, and super supportive. Management and employees innovate side-by-side and work together through challenges. So, it’s easy to see that this company’s “Best Spirit Award” was definitely deserved.

Capital One

Capital One is a nationally recognized and high-tech business banking company, offering better customized consumer and commercial lending and deposit financial services.

If you think Capital One is just a boring financial institution, think again. This company believes in helping people, as well as ensuring that work is both fun and stimulating for employees.

With a management style that emphasizes continued learning and encourages employees to take charge of their own professional development, and a fun culture that boasts everything from lip sync battles to tasty treats on bagel day, Capital One truly has everything you could want in a workplace.

VigLink

VigLink automates the affiliate linking process so publishers, forum sites, and bloggers around the web can easily generate money from content linked to merchant websites.

Flexible work hours, unlimited vacation days, in-office ping-pong battles, and fun offsites are all commonplace at VigLink. But, employees are also encouraged to beef up their skill sets on their own. Teams are allotted a budget just for continuing education—whether that means conferences, classes, or the company-wide subscription to the online learning hub.

Adie from being lifelong learners, the team at VigLink is a tight-knit group that transcends simply being friendly co-workers through impromptu hangouts and trips to the CEO’s house for barbecues and wine tastings—without a single mention of work.

Scribd

Scribd is an online media company, building the world’s best way to read with an extensive library of ebooks and subscription services for readers around the world.

Life at Scribd is different. How different? Well, there’s no traditional structure of bosses and employees—only a combined effort. “A great fit for Scribd would be someone who puts the ‘we’ before the ‘I’, says Social Media Manager Freya Sampson. “It’s a culture of building each other up.”

With breakfast, lunch, and dinner catered daily, bi-weekly happy hours, and an open office that’s perfect for the occasional go-cart or unicycle ride, there’s really never a dull moment as a Scribd employee.

Source: themuse.com, Kat Boogaard
Photo: VigLink Offices