Lab Planner - Tech Research & Development

About the role

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Gensler's San Jose office partners with leading technology companies to shape environments driving innovation and the future of artificial intelligence. The Senior Tech R&D Lab Planner will join the Advanced Technology team, bringing expertise in planning and designing complex research, development, testing, and technical environments. The role supports advanced hardware development, semiconductor research, robotics, AI, and next‑generation manufacturing, covering facility types such as dry labs, clean rooms, chamber rooms, data hall labs, SCIFs, semiconductor testing facilities, GPU rack testing environments, and advanced research spaces.

Responsibilities

• Work directly with clients, internal teams, researchers, and end‑users to develop laboratory planning strategies for new construction and renovations.
• Offer and support creative, sustainability‑focused laboratory planning, technical design, and detailing decisions that push beyond traditional lab design approaches.
• Provide technical lab documentation oversight and quality‑control (QC) reviews.
• Produce and revise plans, elevations, and details according to verbal and written instructions.
• Direct document production in line with project‑specific checklists, Gensler standards, and QA/QC programs.
• Manage day‑to‑day project and client coordination for laboratory projects from initial planning through construction.
• Assist in developing standard materials that describe the portfolio, systems, and processes of Gensler’s Advanced Tech and Mission Critical Facilities.
• Collaborate with office and studio leaders to identify and recruit best‑in‑class talent.
• Lead relationships with clients, contractors, agencies, engineering, and specialty consultants.
• Manage mid‑size to large project teams and mentor junior staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (or related field) from an accredited school.
• 10+ years of architectural or related experience; 10+ years designing highly specialized facilities.
• Architectural licensure preferred but not required.
• Proficiency in Revit preferred.
• Knowledge of laboratory programming delivery and impact on space, operations, equipment, MEP systems, and casework.
• Extensive experience working with senior management, scientists, laboratory managers, technicians, facilities and project managers to document programmatic requirements.
• LEED accreditation preferred; demonstrated commitment to sustainable design.
• Technical expertise to guide discussions for laboratory (including vivarium) space development with equipment and technical attributes.
• Ability to develop process flows, planning, and critical adjacencies for research and laboratory rooms to optimize efficiency and flexibility.
• Leadership experience managing client expectations, multidisciplinary teams, and meeting scope, schedule, and budget goals.
• Advanced knowledge of architectural planning, design process, construction documentation, construction administration, and code requirements.
• Strong presentation skills for interviews and other presentations.
• Proven ability to develop and motivate internal and external teams, with a desire to mentor team members.

Pay

Base salary estimated between $110,000 – $170,000, plus bonuses and benefits, contingent on relevant experience.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Disability coverage
• Wellness programs and flex spending accounts
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• 401(k) with profit sharing
• Employee stock ownership
• Twice‑annual bonus opportunities
• Reimbursement for professional licenses, renewals, and exam fees
• Tuition reimbursement for eligible programs or classes
• Comprehensive professional development programs