Gensler Firm Profile: Careers, Internships, and Salaries

Key Insights:

• Gensler firm profile shows a global architecture and consulting leader with 50+ offices and 7,000 employees serving industries from real estate to transportation.
• Founded in 1965, Gensler has grown into the largest U.S. architecture firm, expanding worldwide through urban planning consulting and sustainability in architecture.
• Gensler careers offer analyst-to-senior consultant roles, with opportunities to work on high-profile global design and consulting services projects.
• The Gensler internship program includes global placements and a Summer Fellowship, providing hands-on training in workplace design and sustainability.
• Gensler salaries range from $80,000 for analysts to $175,000 for senior consultants, with principals earning up to $350,000 annually.

Gensler firm profile highlights one of the world’s leading architecture and design companies, recognized for its scale, global reach, and commitment to innovation. With offices across four continents and thousands of employees, Gensler is known for shaping iconic projects while fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking consulting firm culture.

In this article, we will explore what kind of firm Gensler is, its history, leadership, careers, internships, salaries, culture, interview process, benefits, and exit opportunities to help you decide if it is the right fit for your career goals.

What kind of firm is Gensler?

Gensler is a global architecture, design, and consulting firm that provides services in urban planning, interior design, sustainability, and workplace strategy. The firm operates in over 50 locations worldwide, employing more than 7,000 professionals who deliver projects across industries including construction, transportation, education, real estate, and entertainment.

Gensler stands apart as:

• The largest architecture and design firm in the United States
• A global design firm with clients spanning 4,000 organizations
• A leader in sustainability in architecture and workplace design
• A firm that integrates architecture and design consulting with digital and space management solutions

For consulting candidates, Gensler offers exposure to large-scale projects such as international airports, skyscrapers, and urban planning initiatives. Its consulting services combine creativity with data-driven strategy, giving professionals the chance to influence how cities, workplaces, and communities evolve.

Who founded Gensler and how has the firm grown over time?

Gensler was founded in 1965 by Art Gensler, his wife Drue Gensler, and their associate James Follett, originally focusing on corporate interior design in San Francisco. Over time, the firm expanded into architecture, urban planning consulting, and global design services, becoming the largest architecture and design firm in the United States.

The firm’s growth can be outlined through key milestones:

• 1960s-1970s: Early projects included the Alcoa Building and Bank of America headquarters, which established credibility in workplace design.
• 1980s: Expansion across the United States and diversification into construction consulting services and retail, education, and entertainment sectors.
• 1990s-2000s: Global expansion into Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, serving multinational clients.
• 2010s-present: Recognition as a global design firm delivering sustainability in architecture, digital experience design, and urban planning projects like airports and towers.

Today, Gensler operates in more than 50 locations worldwide and has completed projects for over 4,000 clients. Its growth reflects a consistent ability to adapt to changing markets and to lead in both architecture and consulting firm culture.

Who leads Gensler today?

Gensler is led by Co-CEOs Diane Hoskins and Andy Cohen, who have shared leadership since 2005. Under their direction, the firm has embraced sustainability, diversity, and global expansion, reinforcing Gensler’s reputation as a global design firm and leader in architecture and consulting services.

Their leadership approach emphasizes:

• Collaborative governance that balances design excellence with business strategy
• Commitment to sustainability in architecture and urban planning consulting
• Expansion into new markets such as Asia and the Middle East
• Investment in digital experience design and workplace consulting services

Hoskins and Cohen have also been recognized for advancing diversity and inclusion programs, shaping Gensler’s consulting firm culture into one that values mentorship, professional growth, and innovation. Their tenure demonstrates how effective leadership can help a firm adapt to global challenges while continuing to expand its influence across industries.

What are Gensler careers like for consultants and designers?

Gensler careers provide opportunities to work on high-profile projects in architecture, design, and consulting services. The firm offers roles ranging from consulting analyst to senior consultant, giving professionals exposure to urban planning, sustainability, workplace strategy, and digital experience design across global industries.

At Gensler, career development includes:

• Early exposure to large-scale projects such as airports, skyscrapers, and mixed-use developments
• Opportunities to contribute to sustainability in architecture and workplace design innovation
• Access to mentorship and structured training programs that support professional growth
• Collaboration with diverse teams across more than 50 global offices

Consulting candidates can expect a competitive recruiting process, as positions attract applicants who want to influence global design and planning. Career paths are flexible, with lateral movement possible between design, consulting, and strategy practices, reflecting the firm’s commitment to a supportive consulting firm culture.

Does Gensler offer internships for students and graduates?

Yes, Gensler offers internships through a global program that includes standard internships and the Gensler Summer Fellowship. These internships provide hands-on experience in architecture, design, and consulting services, giving students and graduates exposure to real-world projects, sustainability in architecture, and workplace strategy.

The Gensler internship program features:

• Representation across 50+ offices worldwide, with interns from over 60 universities each year
• Practical project experience in architecture, interior design, digital consulting, and space management
• The Summer Fellowship, a research-focused role addressing urban planning consulting and future city challenges
• Average Gensler internship salary equivalent to about $60,000 annually, prorated for the internship term

Interns benefit from mentorship, collaboration with global design teams, and opportunities to contribute to high-profile projects. For many students, this program serves as a pathway to full-time Gensler careers, making it one of the most competitive entry-level opportunities in the industry.

How much does Gensler pay consultants and architects?

Gensler salaries vary by role, with consulting analysts earning about $80,000, consultants averaging $97,000, and senior consultants reaching $175,000 annually. Architects and designers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 depending on experience, location, and specialization. These figures make Gensler competitive while slightly below the pay scale at top-tier consulting firms.

Salary highlights at Gensler include:

• Consulting Analyst: $80,000 average base salary
• Consultant: $97,000 average base salary
• Senior Consultant: $175,000 average base salary
• Architects and Designers: $70,000–$120,000 depending on seniority and region
• Entry-level roles align with market rates in architecture and design consulting

For candidates considering Gensler careers, compensation is balanced with opportunities for professional growth, international projects, and a strong consulting firm culture. Pay is enhanced by performance-based bonuses and comprehensive benefits that improve total rewards.

How much does a principal at Gensler make?

A principal at Gensler typically earns between $250,000 and $350,000 annually, depending on experience, office location, and scope of responsibility. This senior leadership role is among the highest paid positions in the firm, reflecting the responsibility for overseeing projects, managing client relationships, and guiding strategic growth.

Key points about principal salaries:

• Range is significantly higher than consultant and senior consultant roles
• Compensation may include performance bonuses tied to project outcomes
• Total rewards often include profit sharing, benefits, and long-term incentives
• Salary levels vary by global region, with higher pay in major markets such as New York, London, and Shanghai

For consulting candidates, principal roles are long-term career goals that require years of experience in design and consulting services. These positions also influence firm direction, sustainability in architecture, and urban planning consulting strategies.

What is the culture like at Gensler?

The culture at Gensler is centered on collaboration, creativity, and global teamwork. Employees describe a supportive environment where design professionals and consultants work across disciplines to deliver impactful projects while learning from one another.

Key aspects of Gensler culture include:

• Open collaboration between architects, designers, and consulting services teams
• Emphasis on creativity, innovation, and problem-solving in every project
• Strong sense of community across 50+ offices worldwide
• International exposure through cross-border project assignments
• Opportunities to contribute to socially responsible and sustainability-driven initiatives

For consulting candidates, the culture provides a chance to grow in a firm that values curiosity and bold ideas, while fostering lasting professional relationships and industry leadership.

What diversity and inclusion programs does Gensler have?

Gensler has diversity and inclusion programs focused on equity, representation, and social impact. These include the Strategies to Fight Racism initiative, partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, research grants, and leadership roles dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the firm.

Notable DEI initiatives at Gensler include:

• Establishing the Global Race and Diversity Committee to guide firmwide policies
• Partnering with HBCUs through design charrette programs and scholarships
• Funding Black Lives and Design research grants to support underrepresented voices
• Hiring a Global Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to oversee progress
• Incorporating DEI training into employee development and consulting services

These programs reflect Gensler’s broader consulting firm culture, which integrates diversity into both internal teams and client-facing projects. The emphasis on inclusivity helps shape sustainable and socially responsible architecture and design practices across its global offices.

How does the Gensler interview process work?

The Gensler interview process typically involves an online application, an initial virtual interview, and multiple in-person interviews. Candidates are assessed through behavioral and technical questions, portfolio reviews, and case-style exercises to evaluate design skills, consulting ability, and cultural fit with the firm.

Interview process stages include:

• Submitting a resume and portfolio online through Gensler’s careers portal
• Initial screening interview, often via Zoom, to discuss background and motivation
• Multiple in-person interviews with team leads and managers focusing on behavioral and technical skills
• For technical roles, portfolio reviews and project case studies are included
• Assessment of soft skills such as communication, organization, and ability to manage complex workloads

For consulting candidates, preparation should include practicing case interviews, reviewing project management experiences, and showcasing an understanding of architecture and design consulting. Gensler values applicants who demonstrate creativity, collaboration, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced consulting firm culture.

What are the benefits of working at Gensler?

The benefits of working at Gensler include competitive salaries, health and retirement plans, and career-enhancing perks that make the firm attractive for long-term growth. Employees highlight flexible scheduling, global mobility, and comprehensive programs that support both personal well-being and professional advancement.

Key benefits offered by Gensler:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance with wellness initiatives
• Retirement savings plans with employer contributions
• Paid time off, maternity and paternity leave, and flexible work arrangements
• Structured mentorship and leadership development programs
• Opportunities for international assignments to expand global experience
• DEI initiatives and community programs that strengthen consulting firm culture

These benefits provide tangible value for employees beyond compensation, helping them balance work and life while building strong foundations for long-term careers in architecture and consulting services.

What exit opportunities do Gensler employees have?

Gensler employees often transition into roles at other global architecture and consulting firms, corporate in-house design teams, or city governments focused on urban planning. Exit opportunities also include careers in sustainability consulting, real estate development, and strategy roles tied to construction and workplace design.

Common exit paths include:

• Moving into leadership positions at other architecture and design consulting firms
• Joining corporate in-house teams managing real estate, facilities, or design strategy
• Entering sustainability in architecture and environmental consulting organizations
• Pursuing roles in government or public sector urban planning consulting
• Transitioning into real estate investment, development, or project management firms

These exits are strengthened by Gensler’s consulting firm culture, which develops leadership, project management, and client relationship skills. Alumni often highlight that working on global projects provides the credibility and expertise needed to excel in industries beyond architecture and design.

Why consider the Gensler firm profile for your career?

Gensler stands as the largest architecture and design firm in the United States and a global leader in consulting services that shape cities, workplaces, and communities. From early beginnings in San Francisco to its worldwide presence today, the firm offers rewarding careers, internships, and opportunities to work on transformative projects.

For consulting candidates, the Gensler firm profile highlights a culture of collaboration, professional growth, and innovation. With competitive salaries, strong benefits, and meaningful exit opportunities, Gensler remains an attractive option for those seeking to combine design excellence with consulting firm culture and global impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How hard is it to get hired at Gensler?
A: Getting hired at Gensler can be competitive, as the firm looks for strong portfolios, design skills, and cultural fit across its global consulting and architecture practices.

Q: What is the highest salary at Gensler?
A: The highest salary at Gensler typically goes to principals and senior leaders, with top earners making over $300,000 annually depending on role and location.

Q: Does Gensler allow remote work?
A: Gensler does allow remote work in some roles, often using hybrid models that balance in-office collaboration with flexible work arrangements.

Q: What is the annual turnover of Gensler?
A: The annual turnover of Gensler is estimated at more than $1 billion, reflecting its position as a leading global design firm serving multiple industries.

Q: Does Gensler match 401k?
A: Yes, Gensler matches 401k contributions for U.S. employees, offering retirement benefits as part of its competitive compensation and consulting firm culture.