Landing your first job out of college can be a lot of pressure. Whatever role you end up in can guide the trajectory of your entire career. Fortunately, there is no shortage of opportunities here in Colorado — even for the young and inexperienced.
We reached out to a handful of Colorado tech companies that are all on the hunt for fresh talent to discuss the opportunities available to aspiring tech workers.
Hot on the heels of an $11 million funding, Evolve Vacation Rental Network is growing their team like crazy — and that includes several positions where recent grads can jumpstart their careers. Sara Orlino, director of people operations, shared what she looks for entry-level candidates.
What do you look for in prospective team members who have just graduated from college?
We look for intelligent and involved students who are ready to jump in head first. We love to see graduates who have special projects they completed or unique internships that helped them build relevant skills. That kind of background indicates to us that this candidate knows that advancement doesn’t come passively — you have to earn it.
What's the best thing about starting a career at Evolve?
Our whole company environment revolves around giving our employees room to make a name for themselves. As a startup, we’re constantly changing, innovating and adding new processes, and if you’re the person with a great idea for how to improve our company, we’re more than likely to put you in charge of executing it successfully.
What's one perk of working at Evolve that a candidate would never know by looking at your job listings or careers page?
This is an open-door environment, which is invaluable when you are looking to leaders in the company for support and guidance on career development. Our transparency is a huge asset as well. Our leadership team meets with the entire company bi-monthly to review company-wide goals. That means every single employee has the chance to jump on board new projects that fit their skill set and their career interests. You won’t find that opportunity in most companies!
OrthoFi, creator of financial software for orthodontists, continues to grow their team steadily, and right now, they’re looking specifically for entry-level candidates. Mike O'Muireadhaigh, director of culture at OrthoFi, gave us some insight into the company’s culture and how they help young professionals grow in their careers.
What do you look for in prospective team members who have just graduated from college?
At OrthoFi, we love having new ideas and perspectives on things. We are always looking for people that are curious — and even restless — to get problems solved. We want the brightest people with the best ideas to have a place to grow and shine.
What's the best thing about starting a career at OrthoFi?
The best thing about OrthoFi is the ability to make an impact from day one. We are firm believers in the notion that the best idea wins, making sure all voices are heard. You will also be challenged to push yourself, to learn and grow around some of the sharpest minds in Denver.
What's one perk of working at OrthoFi that a candidate would never know by looking at your job listings or careers page?
We are a fun, supportive environment. We work hard to keep the lines of communication open and trust high. At OrthoFi, you can feel safe sharing ideas and collaborate with the greatest team in Denver!
Layer3 TV is on a mission to create a next-generation cable experience, so it’s no surprise that they’re seeking out the next generation of tech professionals to join their squad. HR Associate Dana Monroe explains what makes a successful new member of their junior team.
What do you look for in prospective team members who have just graduated from college?
Attitude and aptitude. You might not have the most job-specific or real-world experience outside of college courses, but you are willing to jump in, get your feet wet and do whatever it takes to gain the knowledge and skills to continue succeeding in your career. You’re not afraid to ask questions. In fact, you are seeking out knowledge, constantly looking for feedback and challenging yourself and others to improve processes.
What's the best thing about starting a career at Layer3 company?
We have a lot of smart and driven people who also like to have fun. People who come and work for Layer3 TV are motivated and energized to not only be a part of a tight-knit community but also to have an impact on the entertainment industry. Not many recent college grads — let alone experienced employees — can say they were part of something bigger than themselves. You have the chance to get in on the ground floor and grow as the company grows.
What's one perk of working at Layer3 TV that a candidate would never know by looking at your job listings or careers page?
If you’re working at our Broadway office, there’s a rotating food truck in the courtyard every day and parking is paid for. If you’re working out of our Downtown office, you’re steps away from Union Station and all the fun restaurants and bars in lower downtown. No matter where you’re working, you’ll find free snacks, stock options and promos from networks — oh, and access to free cable.
Located in the heart of downtown Denver, Signpost offers all the great perks of a startup with the security and stability of an established business. Alicia Molina, manager of recruiting, tells us why Signpost is a great place for new college grads to get their foot in the door.
What do you look for in prospective team members who have just graduated from college?
We look for someone who was active in university activities and Greek life, and someone who was working through college. We want outgoing, social people.
What's the best thing about starting a career at Signpost company?
The people!! We are a family, so people like to do things outside of work like volleyball, softball, park days on the weekend. We love the work hard, play hard mentality.
What's one perk of working at Signpost that a candidate would never know by looking at your job listings or careers page?
Same as above. Also growth — we are huge on promotional growth. Most of our management and franchise sales people have started as reps and moved up in the ranks. We pride ourselves on internal upward mobility.
Photos via featured companies. Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
