Steer Clear - HOK Prioritizes Profit Over People - Project Architect HOK Employee Review

1.0
4 Jan 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

With a form of this size comes a plethora of resources, a vast knowledge base to pull from, and many people to reach out to. HOK looks good on a resume.

Cons

It became clear (almost immediately after starting) that this is a firm that values profit and reputation over the people that make projects happen. Working at HOK means long hours, unrealistic expectations, no support or mentorship, no perks, and definitely no gratitude (verbal or financial.) Office culture in DC is bleak at best. Despite the best efforts of a stellar group of people volunteering their time to create events for employees, leadership refuses to support any community fostering efforts. Bonuses are based entirely on how well the person in charge likes you rather than on merit or evenly distributed. The environment is competitive, cutthroat, and emotionally unsafe. The turnover rate in the DC office speaks for itself. Steer very clear if you value your health and well being at all.

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HOK Response
4mo
Thank you for sharing your review. At HOK, we prioritize collaboration, respect and professionalism. We believe in merit-based growth and strive to ensure equal opportunities for all. If you have more insights to share, please reach out to human.resources@hok.com.

Explore other reviews about HOK

5.0
31 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Incredibly high design standards. Significant world class projects. Remarkably collaborative culture and people.

Cons

You need to be committed to the work - not necessarily a con.

4.0
26 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Smart people, interesting work with a lot of systems/resources to develop work.

Cons

Mostly large projects and a corporate feel.

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