Remote Work 2026: Top Companies Still Hiring, Despite RTO Mandates
The remote work landscape is shifting. Many companies are pushing for a return to the office. But what if you’re stuck in a full-time office role you hate? Or maybe you’re unemployed, dreaming of a fully remote job. It can feel like your options are limited.
Don’t lose hope. Despite the return-to-office trend, remote hiring is still happening. You just need to know where to look and how to make yourself a competitive candidate.
The Decline in Employee Bargaining Power
New data reveals a change in employee leverage. Fewer workers are willing to quit over return-to-office (RTO) mandates. A survey showed only 7% would quit, down from 51% in 2025. Most expect less flexibility and stricter on-site attendance. Companies may also increase monitoring to enforce compliance.
Remote Hiring is Still Happening
Remote work isn’t dead. FlexJobs analysts found that remote hiring increased by 3% in Q4 2025. This happened even with a slight decline in previous quarters. Several career fields are driving this increase.
- Project management
- Computer and IT
- Sales
- Client services
- Medical and healthcare
Top 29 Companies Hiring Remotely in 2026
Where can you find these remote jobs? Which companies are hiring? FlexJobs compiled a list of the top 100 companies with the most consistent remote and hybrid-remote roles from January to December 2025. This list gives you an idea of what to expect this year.
These employers represent industries like healthcare, insurance, fintech, and more. Here are the top 29:
- TELUS (IT)
- Elevance Health (insurance)
- Lockheed Martin (aerospace and defence)
- Transcom (BPO company)
- UnitedHealth Group (insurance and healthcare)
- General Dynamics (aerospace and defence)
- BELAY (BPO company)
- Centene Corporation (healthcare)
- General Electric – GE (tech, energy, and manufacturing conglomerate)
- U.S. Bank (financial)
- Sargent & Lundy (architect engineering)
- NBCUniversal (media)
- Insight Global (recruitment and staffing)
- General Motors (manufacturing)
- Thermo Fisher Scientific (biotech)
- Johnson & Johnson (pharma)
- Cognizant (IT)
- Piper Companies (recruitment and staffing)
- Siemens (automation and tech)
- Stride, Inc. (education)
- PayPal (fintech)
- Boston Scientific (manufacturing)
- Cox Enterprises (media)
- JLL – Jones Lang LaSalle (real estate)
- Visa (financial)
- Medtronic (health tech)
- Zscaler (IT)
- Your Part Time Controller (financial/accounting)
- State of Washington (federal)
How to Find a Remote Job in 2026
Finding a remote job isn’t about negotiating with your current employer. Instead, look beyond your current role. Consider these options:
- Freelance consulting: Use your skills and experience as a remote consultant.
- Targeted job search: Add companies from the list above to your target list. Follow them on LinkedIn. Turn on job alerts. Connect with decision-makers.
- Flexible-first companies: Seek out companies with flexible policies. Check reviews on Indeed and Glassdoor.
- Strategic networking: Connect with past coworkers and industry contacts. Use professional memberships.
Making Yourself Competitive in the Remote Job Market
Make your professional image stand out. Show how you bring business value. This will boost your value in the job market. Check out this Forbes article for skills to put on your resume.
FAQs
Is remote work really declining?
While some companies push for a return to the office, remote hiring is still happening. Certain industries and companies continue to offer remote opportunities. Keep an open mind when exploring possibilities that align with your skillset.
How can I convince my current employer to let me work remotely?
Instead of trying to negotiate remote work with your current employer, focus on finding a new role. Explore companies that already embrace remote work. This approach may be more successful.
What skills are most important for landing a remote job?
Employers want candidates who are self-motivated, communicative, and tech-savvy. Highlight your ability to work independently and collaborate effectively online. Show that you can deliver results in a remote setting.
Where are the best places to find legitimate remote job postings?
Reputable job boards like FlexJobs, Indeed, and LinkedIn are good places to start. Also, check the career pages of companies known for remote work. Beware of scams and do your research before applying.
How can I prepare for a remote job interview?
Practice your video conferencing skills. Ensure you have a professional background and lighting. Be prepared to discuss your remote work experience and how you stay productive. Show your enthusiasm for the remote work lifestyle.