California, the Golden State, is home to a vibrant job market fueled by innovation, creativity, and cutting-edge industries. As a hub for technology, education, and entertainment, it offers graduates unparalleled opportunities to kickstart their careers in some of the world’s most recognized companies and institutions.
Using CareerDNA metrics, we’ve identified the top employers in California for graduates. The Catalyst score highlights a company’s ability to boost your career growth, while the two-year probability measures how long employees typically stay—indicating job satisfaction and stability.
From tech giants like Microsoft and Google to institutions like Stanford University and Caltech, California offers diverse career paths for graduates ready to make an impact.
Top Employers in California for Graduates
- Nike
- Catalyst Score: 14.05 (highest in California)
- Two-Year Probability: 47.41%
Nike stands out as a leader in innovation and branding, offering graduates exciting opportunities in design, marketing, and technology. Its high Catalyst score reflects the company’s commitment to career growth, making it an ideal choice for creative and business-minded individuals.
- Microsoft
- Catalyst Score: 10.36
- Two-Year Probability: 51.05%
Known for driving technological advancements, Microsoft offers a range of opportunities in software development, cloud computing, and AI. Its strong retention rate and high Catalyst score make it a prime destination for graduates entering the tech sector.
- NVIDIA
- Catalyst Score: 8.61
- Two-Year Probability: 35.52%
As a pioneer in graphics and AI technology, NVIDIA offers graduates the chance to work on groundbreaking innovations. While the retention rate suggests a fast-paced environment, the Catalyst score highlights significant career-building potential.
- Google
- Catalyst Score: 5.66
- Two-Year Probability: 32.05%
A global leader in technology and innovation, Google provides graduates with opportunities to work on impactful projects in AI, search, and cloud services. The Catalyst score shows its potential for career advancement, though its retention rate suggests a competitive work culture.
- Caltech (California Institute of Technology)
- Catalyst Score: 4.94
- Two-Year Probability: 46.67%
Known for its cutting-edge research and academic excellence, Caltech offers graduates unique opportunities in science, engineering, and academia.
- Stanford University
- Catalyst Score: 4.88
- Two-Year Probability: 33.58%
As a world-renowned institution, Stanford University provides opportunities in research, innovation, and higher education, making it a strong choice for graduates interested in academia.
- Apple
- Catalyst Score: 4.74
- Two-Year Probability: 45.20%
Apple is synonymous with innovation and design, offering graduates opportunities in hardware, software, and product development. Its Catalyst score reflects its potential for career growth in the tech sector.
- Sony
- Catalyst Score: 3.99
- Two-Year Probability: 55.87%
With opportunities spanning entertainment, gaming, and technology, Sony offers a mix of creativity and stability for graduates looking to make an impact in multimedia industries.
- In-N-Out Burger
- Catalyst Score: 2.80
- Two-Year Probability: 85.07% (highest retention rate in the state)
Known for its employee-centric policies, In-N-Out Burger provides graduates with a stable and supportive work environment. While its Catalyst score is lower, the retention rate speaks to its positive workplace culture.
- University of California, Irvine (UCI)
- Catalyst Score: 1.23
- Two-Year Probability: 22.54%
UCI offers opportunities in academia and research, especially for graduates looking to start their careers in higher education or scientific exploration.
Start building your future with CareerDNA. Discover salary benchmarks, career progression, and jobs perfectly tailored for you—all for free at yourcareerdna.com.
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