Lab Planner - Sciences

Gensler's San Francisco office is seeking a Lab Planner to join our Life Sciences Studio. In this role, you will bring deep expertise in pre-design, programming, and laboratory planning across a range of specialty architectural environments. As a subject matter expert, you excel in the design and documentation of complex laboratory facilities—including early-stage research labs, clinical diagnostics spaces, vivarium, and other technical GXP environments. You pair strong client-relationship skills with a portfolio of innovative, built design solutions. Working collaboratively with teams across the region and the broader Gensler network, you will help shape best-in-class, sustainability-driven projects and advance discussions around design innovation.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate directly with clients, scientists, researchers, and end-users to develop laboratory planning strategies for retrofit, renovation, and new construction projects.
• Provide innovative, sustainability-focused lab planning solutions that support project goals and advance contemporary laboratory design, particularly in private industry.
• Act as a technical advisor in academic, clinical, forensic, government, public health, or R&D markets.
• Oversee technical documentation, perform quality control reviews, and develop plans, elevations, and details from verbal and written instructions.
• Direct project documentation in accordance with project-specific checklists, Gensler standards, and QA/QC protocols.
• Manage day-to-day client and project activities from initial planning through construction.
• Lead relationships with clients, contractors, regulatory agencies, engineers, and specialty consultants.
• Contribute to the development of materials that communicate the Life Sciences Practice Area’s portfolio, systems, and processes.
• Partner with office and studio leaders to identify and recruit top talent.
• Manage mid-size to large project teams and mentor junior staff.

Requirements

• Licensed architect with a bachelor’s degree or higher in Architecture and 8+ years of experience working with scientific teams.
• Proficiency in Revit is required.
• Strong understanding of laboratory programming and how design impacts space planning, operations, equipment needs, MEP systems, and casework.
• Extensive experience collaborating with senior management, scientists, lab managers/technicians, facilities personnel, and project managers to define and document programmatic requirements.
• LEED accreditation preferred; demonstrated commitment to sustainable and resilient design.
• Technical expertise in laboratory and vivarium planning, including room/space development based on equipment and specialized requirements.
• Ability to work with end users to develop process flows, planning methodologies, and critical adjacencies to ensure efficient and flexible research environments.
• Proven leadership experience managing client expectations, multidisciplinary teams, and project scope, schedule, and budget.
• Advanced knowledge of architectural planning and design, construction documentation, construction administration, and code compliance.
• Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate ideas in interviews and client presentations.
• Skilled in motivating and developing internal and external teams, with a commitment to mentoring junior staff.

This position may be based in either our San Francisco or Seattle office.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
• Wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off.
• 401k, profit sharing, and employee stock ownership.
• Twice annual bonus opportunities.
• Reimbursement for certain professional licenses, associated renewals, and exam fees.
• Tuition reimbursement for certain eligible programs or classes.

Pay

The base salary will be estimated between $107,000 - $140,000, plus bonuses and benefits, contingent on relevant experience.

At Gensler, an unlicensed Lab Planner will have the job title of Lab Designer and operate in this capacity for alignment with internal programs, doing business with clients, and compliance with industry and government regulations.