At Gensler, we design for people—how they work, learn, live, and connect. We draw on our global perspective and deep local roots to innovate at every scale, from bold architectural concepts to the details that shape everyday experience. Fueled by a culture of curiosity, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit, our teams thrive on collaboration, turning complex challenges into forward-thinking, human-centered solutions.
Our San Jose studio is an inspiring hub within this network, with a strong architectural and interiors practice spanning large commercial office buildings, repositioning projects for developer and tech clients, workplace environments for global technology companies, and a growing higher education studio. Through our integrated, inside-out design approach, we craft work that enriches not only the people within our spaces but also the communities around them—placing impact and innovation at the heart of everything we do.
Your Role
As a Gensler Architect, you will partner with a talented team of designers and architects to shape design solutions from concept through construction. You excel at translating ideas, sketches, and design intent into compelling 3D models and clear, buildable construction documents. You’re resourceful when technical issues arise, collaborative in your approach, and energized by mentoring others. This role also offers great opportunities to expand your professional network through active involvement with industry peers and organizations. With your strong work ethic and commitment to design excellence, you’ll find Gensler the ideal environment to grow your career and elevate your craft
What You Will Do
- Design and plan complex architectural projects of varying types.
- Work across all phases of design through construction administration.
- Manage and lead clients, design teams, consultants, contractors, fabricators, regulatory agencies, and other partners to meet project objectives.
- Produce BIM models and high‑quality construction drawings.
- Resolve challenging technical and design issues to create innovative and constructible solutions.
- Lead and support multiple concurrent projects at various stages, including interiors and core & shell work.
- Apply Design-Build project experience (ideal but not required).
- Communicate effectively and collaborate as a strong team contributor.
- Mentor and coach junior staff members.
- Participate in and contribute to office culture and initiatives.
- Thrive in a fast-paced work environment as a quick and adaptable learner.
Your Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from an accredited program.
- Licensed architect in the State of California.
- 10+ years of architectural design experience.
- Proven experience managing client relationships and coordinating multidisciplinary teams (including structural, MEP, lighting, AV, landscape, and civil consultants).
- Experience working directly with trade partners and contractors.
- Strong ability to resolve complex technical and design challenges.
- Proficiency in Revit, SketchUp, 3ds Max, and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Thorough understanding of building construction and technical documentation.
- Knowledge of California building codes, standards, and building systems.
- Understanding of sustainable and universal design principles.
- Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and relationship-management skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to sustainable design.
To be considered: Portfolios should include at least 1 project with this particular focus in PDF format
If relocating to the Bay Area has crossed your mind, let’s talk—we’d love to show you what makes this one of the most inspiring places to live and design.
U.S. News & World Report’s San Jose, often referred to as the capital of Silicon Valley, San Jose is a diverse city with an innovative spirit.
**The base salary will be estimated between $118,000 – $135,000 plus bonuses and benefits, and contingent on relevant experience.
To learn more about our compensation philosophy and full benefits offerings, please visit Great People, Great Rewards | Gensler
Life at Gensler
At Gensler, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to “Well-being Week,” our offices reflect our people’s diverse interests.
We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401k, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities. Our annual base salary range has been established based on local markets.
As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.
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What We Do
Gensler is a global architecture, design, and planning firm with 53 locations and more than 6,000+ professionals networked across the Americas, Europe, Greater China, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. Founded in 1965, the firm works globally with more than 4,000 clients across more than 33 practice areas spanning the work, lifestyle, community, and health sectors.
Everything we do is guided by our mission: To create a better world through the power of design.
We believe the power of design can spark positive change and create a future that promotes equity, resilience, and wellbeing for everyone.
Gensler was named one of Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work in 2020, 2019, 2017 and 2016, and our award-winning culture has been recognized by Fast Company as one of the 100 Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2021. Our people-first philosophy is centered on the core ideas of diversity empowerment, impact, community, respect, and growth. You can learn more about our commitment to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace at https://www.gensler.com/careers#diversity.
