More than 25 years after getting our start in New Jersey, ESS has been named a New Jersey Top Workplaces 2026 winner by NJ Advance Media, ranking #28 among large companies across the state.
It’s a meaningful milestone for a company whose story began right here in the Garden State – and one made possible by feedback from our own employees.
Recognition Powered by Our People
The Top Workplaces award is based entirely on confidential employee feedback collected through a survey administered by Energage LLC. Employees share their perspectives on key aspects of their workplace experience, from leadership and company direction to appreciation and meaningful work.
Because the recognition comes directly from employees, it offers an important reflection of the workplace ESS has built while growing from a New Jersey-based company into a nationwide organization.
Where the ESS Story Began
ESS was founded in New Jersey in 2000 with a mission to help schools ensure students have the support they need to succeed.
Since then, that mission has taken ESS into school communities across the country. Today, ESS employs more than 100,000 professionals, serves 15,000+ schools, and helps support the education of 8.5 million students nationwide.
But New Jersey remains an important part of the ESS story. More than two decades after our founding, we now partner with 150+ school districts across the Garden State, supporting schools, educators, and students in New Jersey communities.
From New Jersey Beginnings to Nationwide Impact
A lot has changed since ESS began in 2000. Our reach has expanded, our team has grown, and the number of schools and students we support has increased dramatically.
Receiving a Top Workplaces honor in the state where that journey started makes this recognition especially meaningful. It celebrates how far ESS has come while recognizing the people who continue to move us forward every day.
To our employees who shared their feedback and to everyone who has played a part in the ESS story over the past 25+ years: thank you.
We’re proud of where we started, proud of what we’ve built, and excited for what comes next.
Write Your Next Chapter with ESS
Interested in making a difference in your local schools? ESS is hiring substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and school support staff in districts across New Jersey and nationwide.
Join a team that helps schools stay supported and students keep learning. Visit ESS.com/Apply to explore opportunities near you and apply today.