STB again tops PPS list of best workplaces among small federal agencies

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) recently was ranked No. 1 among small federal agencies in the 2014 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government list compiled by Partnership for Public Service (PPS). The board now has attained the top ranking for the sixth consecutive year.

Among the more than 389 federal organizations ranked according to the views of more than 392,700 civil servants concerning employee satisfaction, commitment and workplace issues, the STB achieved the top index score of 86.8, a 2.1-point improvement over its 2013 score of 84.7.

Workplace policies at the STB, which employs 138 people, aim to foster a work-life balance through telecommuting and flexible work schedules, and facilitate an open-door management environment that encourages creativity, board members said in a press release. The positive workplace environment helps retain skilled workers and recruit top-tier job candidates, they said.

The board’s continued recognition by PPS is noteworthy in light of the partnership's overall findings of declining federal employee satisfaction numbers, STB officials said.

"This award demonstrates that our approach to hiring the best people and providing them the opportunity to innovate, problem-solve and work hard toward common goals — while at the same time maintaining work-life balance — is both wise and proven," said STB Chairman Daniel Elliott III. "The 2014 recognition reflects the continuing effort of our managers to provide an open workplace encouraging a team approach to the agency’s important work concerning major transportation issues."