Contractor Interior and consulting engineer Arup head a list of eight construction firms named in a leading survey of good employers.

Interior, which came 21st in The Sunday Times’ 100 Best Companies to Work For survey, was praised for its commitment to personal career development and because the management had obtained the confidence and respect of its staff.

Arup, which made it to the 29th spot, garnered particular plaudits as the best firm in the UK for those over the age of 55. These employees comprise more than 10% of the workforce and have the highest happiness rating of any firm. Arup topped the chart for the consultancy sector as a whole, and came fourth in the “making the world a better place” table.

Others on the list included Mace (50), FaberMaunsell (56), Kier Group (72), Mott MacDonald (86), Countryside Properties (95) and Parkman Group (96). Project and construction manager Mace was singled out as one of the top companies for fair pay.

Multidisciplinary consultant Mott MacDonald was praised for its work in the community, with 75% of its employees believing that the company made a positive contribution to the world.

The survey, carried out by Best Companies in conjunction with The Sunday Times, canvassed the views of more than 47,000 employees in 201 companies. Workers were asked to assess their companies under eight headings: leadership, management, opportunities for personal growth, well-being, team cohesion, company image, fair deal and investment in the community.

The benefits offered by firms, such as pensions and maternity leave, were included.