Brand Designer - Senior

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Brand Designer
Company: Gensler
Location: Houston, TX, US
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Consulting
Date Posted: October 7, 2025
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the creation and execution of compelling brand strategies, with a strong emphasis on spatial design and environmental graphics, aligning with client objectives and Gensler's design ethos.
• Lead multidisciplinary project teams, fostering collaboration between brand designers, architects, and interior designers to deliver integrated, impactful client solutions.
• Manage client relationships and vendor coordination from concept through construction administration, ensuring design intent is maintained and project milestones are met.
• Develop high-quality design documentation, including signage, wayfinding systems, and large-scale installations, that effectively communicate brand narratives and enhance user experience within physical spaces.
• Contribute to business development by assisting in proposal creation and strategic client engagement, identifying opportunities for brand design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Brand Designer, implying a leadership capacity within project teams and significant client-facing responsibilities. The emphasis on spatial and environmental graphics suggests a focus on the physical manifestation of brands, requiring a blend of graphic design principles and an understanding of architectural and interior design contexts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with architects, interior designers, and consulting teams to conceptualize and develop comprehensive branding strategies for diverse client projects.
• Design and execute integrated brand experiences, including signage, wayfinding systems, environmental graphics, and large-scale installations, ensuring cohesive messaging and visual identity.
• Translate brand narratives into tangible design solutions, utilizing typography, color, imagery, and composition to create impactful three-dimensional branded environments.
• Review and refine design deliverables, ensuring high standards of quality, technical accuracy, and adherence to code and fabrication requirements.
• Serve as a primary client contact, leading design discussions, presenting concepts, and managing feedback to ensure client satisfaction and project alignment.
• Coordinate effectively with external vendors, fabricators, and contractors, providing clear design intent documentation and overseeing installation quality.
• Manage project scopes, assist with budget and workplan development, and monitor financial performance in collaboration with Project Managers.
• Provide design guidance and support during the construction administration phase, addressing RFIs and ensuring faithful execution of design intent.
• Lead and mentor junior designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Contribute to new business development efforts by assisting with proposals and strategic presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level role requiring not only design expertise but also project management, client relationship management, and team leadership capabilities. The mention of "public bid processes" and "construction administration" highlights the need for a strong understanding of technical documentation and fabrication realities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Architecture, Industrial Design, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive professional experience in brand development, with a significant focus on signage, wayfinding, and environmental graphics.
• Proven experience working within multidisciplinary design teams, preferably in a studio environment alongside architects and interior designers.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret architectural construction documents and shop drawings.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) is essential for developing high-quality design assets.
• Strong working knowledge of AutoCAD for technical drawing and detailing.
• Competency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for project management and communication.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts to diverse audiences and lead client conversations.
• Proven leadership and project management capabilities, including the ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and resources effectively.
• Strong organizational skills with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering meticulously crafted designs.
• Client- and team-oriented mindset, adept at balancing competing demands and fostering collaborative relationships.

Preferred Skills:

• Working knowledge of Revit for understanding architectural models and integrating design elements.
• Familiarity with SketchUp for 3D conceptualization and visualization.
• Experience in developing and managing proposals and participating in new business development activities.
• Understanding of fabrication processes and installation standards for signage, environmental graphics, and large-scale installations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for AutoCAD and familiarity with Revit suggests a need for a designer who can interface directly with architectural documentation and potentially contribute to technical drawings for fabricated elements, bridging the gap between graphic design and architectural execution. The 10+ years of experience points to a need for seasoned professionals capable of independent work and leadership.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a strong track record in brand development, with a particular emphasis on spatial applications such as signage, wayfinding, and environmental graphics.
• Demonstrations of how design thinking has been applied to solve client challenges and create impactful spatial brand experiences.
• Examples of integrated design solutions that combine graphic design principles with architectural and interior environments.
• Evidence of proficiency in translating brand strategy into tangible design elements that resonate with target audiences and enhance user journeys.
• Case studies that highlight your involvement in the full project lifecycle, from initial concept and client presentations to design documentation and collaboration with fabricators.

Process Documentation:

• Include examples of design documentation for signage, wayfinding, and environmental graphics, demonstrating clarity, technical accuracy, and adherence to industry standards.
• Showcase your approach to user-centered design, illustrating how you consider user flow, accessibility, and experience within branded environments.
• Present case studies that detail your process for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams (architects, interior designers) and managing client feedback loops.
• Provide insights into your methods for coordinating with vendors and fabricators, including how you ensure design intent is maintained through the production and installation phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a portfolio and work samples underscores the visual and practical nature of this role. Candidates should curate their submissions to highlight expertise in environmental graphics and wayfinding, demonstrating not just aesthetic talent but also the ability to manage complex projects from concept to completion, including technical documentation and vendor coordination.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on Gensler's compensation philosophy and industry benchmarks for a Senior Brand Designer in Houston, TX, with 10+ years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is between $100,000 and $140,000. This range may vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the final determined scope of responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
• Disability insurance coverage.
• Access to Wellness Programs and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
• Generous Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Retirement savings plan with a 401(k) and profit-sharing options.
• Employee Stock Ownership plan.
• Twice annual bonus opportunities, reflecting company and individual performance.
• Professional development support, including reimbursement for certain professional licenses, renewals, and exam fees.
• Tuition reimbursement for eligible programs or classes.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, on-site position, likely requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Standard office hours are expected, with potential for flexibility depending on project demands and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior-level design roles in a major metropolitan area like Houston, considering the specified experience level and the reputation of Gensler as a leading design firm. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, with specific mentions of licensure and tuition support relevant to design professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Design, and Consulting. Gensler is a global leader in architecture, design, and planning, known for its innovative approach to creating sustainable, high-performance spaces across various sectors. Company Size: Gensler operates as a large, global firm with thousands of employees across numerous offices worldwide. This scale provides opportunities for diverse project involvement and career advancement. Founded: Gensler was founded in 1965. Its long-standing history signifies stability, expertise, and a deep understanding of the design industry.

Team Structure:

• The Brand Design team is integrated directly within a Gensler studio, working alongside Consulting, Architecture, and Interior Design practice areas.
• This multidisciplinary structure fosters a highly collaborative environment where brand designers contribute to overall project strategy and execution from inception.
• Reporting lines are likely to involve project-specific leadership and a studio or practice area lead, promoting cross-functional communication and shared accountability.

Methodology:

• Gensler emphasizes a client-centered, data-informed approach to design, focusing on creating impactful and responsive environments.
• The Brand Design team's methodology likely involves deep dives into client brand strategy, user behavior, and spatial context to develop integrated solutions.
• Collaboration is a core methodology, with an emphasis on iterative design processes, team workshops, and cross-disciplinary problem-solving.

Company Website: https://www.gensler.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The embedded nature of the Brand Design team within architectural and interior design studios is a key differentiator. This structure suggests that brand design is not an isolated discipline but a fundamental component of Gensler's holistic design process, requiring close collaboration and a shared understanding of architectural principles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Brand Designer. This level signifies a seasoned professional with significant expertise, leadership potential, and the capacity to manage complex projects and client relationships independently. It positions the individual as a key contributor within the Brand Design practice and a mentor to junior staff. Reporting Structure: The Senior Brand Designer will likely report to a Design Director, Principal, or Studio Leader within the Brand Design practice or the broader studio. They will also work closely with Project Managers and lead project teams consisting of other designers and consultants. Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on how clients' brands are perceived and experienced within physical spaces. The Senior Brand Designer's work influences brand recognition, user engagement, and the overall success of client projects by creating cohesive and memorable environments that align with brand identity and business objectives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance to Design Director, Principal, or specialized leadership roles within Gensler's Brand Design practice.
• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as experiential design, sustainable branding, or digital integration within physical spaces.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to and collaboration with diverse practice areas (architecture, interior design, consulting) can broaden skill sets and career perspectives.
• Mentorship and Training: Formal and informal opportunities to mentor junior designers and participate in Gensler's extensive professional development programs, including workshops, conferences, and continuing education.
• Business Development: Involvement in growing the Brand Design practice through client engagement and proposal development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and the integrated team structure suggest clear pathways for career progression, not just within Brand Design but also into broader leadership roles within Gensler's multidisciplinary framework. The emphasis on mentorship and business development indicates opportunities for both technical and strategic career growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Gensler operates with a modern, collaborative office environment designed to foster creativity and teamwork. The Houston office, like others, is likely to feature open workspaces, dedicated project areas, meeting rooms, and amenities that support a dynamic design practice. Office Location(s): The position is based in Houston, Texas. Gensler has a significant presence in major global cities, and the Houston office serves as a hub for projects within the region and beyond. Specific details about the office's accessibility and amenities would be available during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The workspace is designed to facilitate spontaneous interaction and formal collaboration among team members, crucial for the multidisciplinary nature of Gensler's projects.
• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-leading design software, hardware, and potentially advanced visualization tools to support the creation of complex environmental graphics and wayfinding systems.
• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for interaction with architects, interior designers, consultants, and project managers, promoting a rich exchange of ideas and a holistic project approach.

Work Schedule:

• This is a full-time, on-site role. The typical work schedule is expected to be around 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. However, project deadlines may occasionally require flexibility and extended hours to meet client and project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of Gensler's work environment emphasizes collaboration and the use of advanced tools, which is critical for a Senior Brand Designer. The on-site requirement highlights the importance of in-person interaction for team synergy and client engagement in a design-centric setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess your qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.
• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: A session where candidates present their portfolio, discussing key projects, design philosophy, and approach to brand strategy and spatial design. This will be followed by in-depth questions about your experience, leadership style, and technical skills.
• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential colleagues, project managers, and practice area leaders to evaluate collaboration style, cultural fit, and ability to integrate into Gensler's multidisciplinary teams.
• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to finalize the assessment of your fit for the Senior Brand Designer role and Gensler's organizational values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best showcase your expertise in brand development, signage, wayfinding, and environmental graphics. Prioritize quality over quantity.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's challenge, your strategic approach, the design process, your specific contributions, and the measurable impact of your work.
• Highlight Integration: Emphasize how your brand designs integrated with architectural and interior spaces, demonstrating your understanding of the built environment.
• Showcase Technical Skills: Include examples of detailed documentation, technical drawings, and your proficiency with relevant software (Adobe Suite, AutoCAD).
• Demonstrate Collaboration: If possible, include testimonials or descriptions of how you collaborated with other disciplines and managed client feedback.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to solving complex design problems, particularly those involving the translation of brand identity into physical spaces.
• Anticipate questions about managing client expectations, leading design teams, and navigating project constraints (budget, timeline, technical feasibility).
• Consider how you would approach a hypothetical project for a client in Houston, integrating local context or target audience considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio presentation is paramount. Candidates must be prepared to articulate their design process, strategic thinking, and the impact of their work, especially in the context of spatial branding and multidisciplinary collaboration. Understanding Gensler's project types and client base will be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for all graphic design tasks, including layout, illustration, and image manipulation (e.g., Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop).
• AutoCAD: Crucial for producing technical drawings, plans, elevations, and details necessary for signage, wayfinding, and environmental graphics fabrication and installation.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard for project management, communication, proposals, and reporting (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding how design impacts user behavior and brand perception may involve reviewing project performance data or user feedback. Proficiency in presenting data visually through design deliverables is key.

CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM systems is beneficial for client management and business development aspects. Automation tools are less likely to be a focus for this design role, but efficiency in design workflows is valued.

Preferred Tools:

• Revit: Working knowledge is preferred for better integration with architectural designs and understanding BIM models.
• SketchUp: Useful for 3D conceptualization, visualization, and presenting spatial design ideas.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Gensler's internal systems for tracking project progress and tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are Adobe Creative Suite and AutoCAD, reflecting the blend of graphic design and technical documentation needed for environmental graphics. Familiarity with Revit and SketchUp is a strong plus, indicating Gensler's desire for designers who can seamlessly integrate with architectural workflows and visualize spatial concepts effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork and cross-disciplinary cooperation is central to Gensler's integrated design approach.
• Client-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and exceeding client needs and expectations through thoughtful design solutions.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking, pushing design boundaries, and exploring new materials, technologies, and approaches.
• Excellence: Maintaining the highest standards of design quality, technical execution, and professional integrity.
• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally responsible design practices into all projects.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and contribute to richer design outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Studio Model: Collaboration is inherent in the team structure, with designers working closely with architects, interior designers, and consultants on a daily basis.
• Iterative Design Process: Feedback loops are encouraged, with regular design reviews and critiques to refine concepts and ensure alignment.
• Knowledge Sharing: Gensler likely promotes a culture of sharing best practices, insights, and learnings across disciplines and project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Gensler's culture values collaboration and client focus, which are critical for a Senior Brand Designer working within a multidisciplinary firm. The emphasis on innovation and excellence aligns with the expectations for a senior-level position that contributes to the firm's reputation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Vision with Spatial Constraints: Effectively translating a brand's essence into physical spaces while adhering to architectural limitations, codes, and budgets.
• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Bridging the gap between graphic design language and architectural/engineering terminology to ensure clear understanding and seamless integration.
• Managing Diverse Client Expectations: Navigating the varied needs and priorities of different clients and stakeholders to deliver cohesive brand experiences.
• Keeping Pace with Evolving Design Trends: Staying abreast of new materials, technologies, and design approaches in both graphic and environmental design.
• Project Ambiguity: Working on new projects where the brand identity or spatial requirements may not be fully defined initially, requiring strategic interpretation and development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening Expertise: Opportunities to specialize in areas like experiential branding, interactive installations, or sustainable design practices.
• Industry Engagement: Participation in design conferences, workshops, and Gensler's internal learning programs to stay ahead of industry trends.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced leaders and contributing to the development of junior talent.
• Exposure to Global Projects: Working on diverse projects for a global client base can offer broad exposure to different markets and design challenges.
• Professional Licensure Support: Gensler's commitment to supporting professional licenses and certifications can aid in career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the complex, integrated nature of the role, requiring a blend of creative, technical, and interpersonal skills. The growth opportunities emphasize continuous learning and specialization within the dynamic field of design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Brand Integration: "Describe a project where you successfully integrated a brand identity into a complex architectural or interior space. What was your process, and what were the key challenges you overcame?"
• Client Management: "How do you approach client presentations and feedback sessions, especially when there are differing opinions or strong stakeholder input?"
• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a time you had to adapt a design concept due to technical constraints or budget limitations. What was your solution, and what was the outcome?"
• Team Collaboration: "Describe your experience working with architects and interior designers. How do you ensure your brand design contributions complement and enhance their work?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Gensler's Brand Design practice, and how do you see your skills contributing to our multidisciplinary approach?"
• "How do you stay current with design trends and new technologies in environmental graphics and spatial branding?"
• "Describe a time you had to influence a team or client towards a particular design direction. What was your strategy?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation with a clear beginning (client challenge), middle (your process and solutions), and end (impact and outcome).
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your slides are clean, visually appealing, and effectively showcase your design work. Use high-quality images and renderings.
• Concise Explanations: Be prepared to discuss each project succinctly, focusing on your role, strategic decisions, and the results. Avoid jargon where possible, or explain it clearly.
• Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the technical aspects of your designs, including materials, fabrication methods, and installation considerations, especially for signage and wayfinding.
• Engagement: Be interactive; encourage questions and be ready to elaborate on specific aspects of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strategic approach to design, strong collaborative capabilities, and a deep understanding of how brand identity manifests in physical spaces. The portfolio presentation is a critical component and should be meticulously prepared to highlight relevant experience and problem-solving skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Brand Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Gensler Careers portal via the provided link.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio (PDF format preferred) that prominently features your experience in brand development, signage, wayfinding, and environmental graphics. Ensure it highlights your ability to integrate brand strategies with architectural and interior design.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 10+ years of experience, leadership capabilities, client management skills, and proficiency with relevant design software (Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD). Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on your strategic thinking, design process, collaborative approach, and problem-solving skills. Practice articulating your design philosophy and how it aligns with Gensler's values.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Gensler's recent projects, design philosophy, and the scope of their Brand Design practice. Understand their approach to multidisciplinary design and client engagement.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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