Its that time of year again—Fortune on CNN Money.com just released the list of best companies to work for in 2009. Want to know the best part? About 75% of the companies are hiring, some of them with more than 50 open positions to fill.  ( ).

Unfortunately, the research and resulting list also reminded us that even the big brands are suffering with the economy. CNN reported:

The tough economy took a toll on many corporations and these are no exception. Many [companies] told us about layoffs, but we wanted to know how outgoing employees were treated: the size of severance packages, additional benefits options, etc. Some companies facing the financial crisis were able to keep employees happy with reduced bonuses, extra vacation days, and discounted gift cards. And for many, just having a job was reason to rejoice.

Although that leaves us all a bit sullen, there is also a silver lining to this. New companies jumped on the list, which reminds us all that there is growth to be found in economic distress. Zappos.com made it up there at #23 for a first time appearance, as well as Dreamworks at #47. I personally smiled when I saw that the Build-A-Bear Workshop made the cut at #94 (I mean I would want to work there, wouldn’t you?). Probably the biggest surprise was the debut of an academic institution for the first time in the list’s history…Vanderbilt University made it in there (well done guys!).

So how does one make this coveted list? First off the company has to have been around for at least 7 years and have over 1,000 U.S. employees. CNN does an extensive research survey with more than 81,000 employees participating in the 57-question survey. The results of the survey are scaled with 2/3 of a company’s overall score coming from employees with the remainder coming from a “Culture Audit” which surveys every company’s  demographics, salary rangers, benefits, and philosophies.

Crazy stuff huh? Well needless to say it’s a pretty accurate little list they have there.  What does it say to us normal people? It reminds us that companies are still seeing growth and still hiring. Read it again people…companies are still hiring.

This list is also a great place to start with your job search. If you live near one of them, jump online and check to see if they are hiring. With the job-search-verse as competitive as it is now, its best to go where the jobs are, rather than wait for a job to find you. This list is like a compass for opportunity, so get moving!