Full-Time
Ergonomic office furniture and workspace solutions
$61.7k - $90k/yr
New Orleans, LA, USA
In Person
Bachelor's
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Humanscale designs ergonomic office furniture and tools that prioritize physical health and comfort in the workplace. These products work by using human-centered design principles to support natural movement and posture, making it easier for users to stay productive without physical strain. Unlike many competitors who focus solely on aesthetics, Humanscale integrates environmental sustainability into every product to ensure their manufacturing processes help the planet. The company's goal is to create work environments that are healthier, more inclusive, and more sustainable for everyone.
Company Size
501-1,000
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
New York City, New York
Founded
1983
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Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Holidays
Pet Insurance
Employee Discount Programs
Flexible Work Hours
Humanscale expands Ocean Collection with Freedom Ocean chair made from reclaimed fishing nets. Humanscale has expanded its Ocean Collection with the launch of the Freedom Ocean, a new ergonomic office chair made using reclaimed fishing nets and ocean plastic. The launch builds on the company's sustainability strategy by combining its established ergonomic seating design with recycled marine waste. Based on the iconic Freedom Chair, originally designed by Niels Diffrient and recognised as 'the gold standard in office seating', the Freedom Ocean has been re-engineered using reclaimed fishing nets and ocean-bound plastic. The chair joins Humanscale's Ocean Collection, which the company introduced in 2016 as the first commercial furniture range to incorporate discarded fishing nets into seating products. According to Humanscale, discarded fishing nets account for around 20% of marine plastic waste, contributing to the destruction of marine ecosystems and taking centuries to decompose. Each Freedom Ocean chair contains up to 2kg of reclaimed fishing and boating gear, helping to divert waste from the ocean while creating durable workplace furniture. 'We challenge the rest of the industry to put in the hard work and financial commitments to make a transformative impact on the Earth,' said Jane Abernethy, Chief Sustainability Officer at Humanscale. 'The Freedom Ocean reflects our belief that great design and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand.' Ergonomic performance Designed to accommodate around 95% of users, the Freedom Ocean retains the ergonomic features of the original Freedom Chair. These include a weight-compensating recline that automatically adjusts to the sitter, a pivoting backrest that maintains continuous lumbar support, contoured seat cushions with a waterfall edge to reduce pressure points, and synchronous armrests that move with the user. An optional headrest is also available for additional support. The chair has been designed with a modular construction to simplify maintenance and part replacement, extending its service life and reducing waste. Optional accessories include Technogel(R) cushions and a coat hanger. Sustainability credentials The Freedom Ocean is manufactured in Humanscale's TRUE Zero Waste facilities and contains post-consumer recycled content while remaining free from harmful chemicals. It is Living Product Certified, meaning the product is designed to be climate, water and energy positive. The chair also carries several sustainability certifications, including DECLARE(R)- LBC Red List Approved, a Health Product Declaration (HPD), BIFMA LEVEL(R) 3, and SCS Indoor Advantage(TM) Gold for indoor air quality. Materials and availability The Freedom Ocean is available in a range of chrome-free leather and fabric upholstery options, including Steelcut Trio, Hallingdal 65 and Elmosoft, with Black Polished Aluminium and Black frame finishes. It is offered in task, meeting and stool versions and is backed by a 15-year warranty on parts and a five-year warranty on fabrics and cushions. The Freedom Ocean is available through Humanscale's global network of authorised distributors and via the company's website.
Humanscale launches second-life program for task chairs. By Canadian Interiors On Jul 13, 2026 Humanscale has launched Re-Freshed, a second-life program that extends the lifespan of its products through refurbishment and resale. Beginning with the Freedom, Smart, and Liberty Chairs, the initiative builds on the company's focus on durable design, material health, and products intended for repeated use over time. The Freedom Chair, which was originally introduced over 25 years ago, was engineered for longevity, with replaceable components and a design that remains relevant across generations of workplaces. Through Re-Freshed, returned chairs are restored and reintroduced into the market, extending product life and reducing waste. Each chair undergoes a structured refurbishment process that includes inspection, sanitization, and component review. High-touch parts such as arm pads, textiles, casters, and gas cylinders are replaced, while core structural elements are retained and reused. As a result, refurbished products retain the majority of their original materials while reducing the environmental impact associated with new manufacturing. Compared to a brand-new chair, a Re-Freshed chair reduces material use by 78 per cent, water consumption by 73 per cent, greenhouse gas emissions by 69 per cent, and energy use by 67 per cent. These savings demonstrate the environmental benefits of extending product lifecycles and underscore the role refurbishment can play in reducing resource extraction and carbon emissions. Re-Freshed also reflects Humanscale's broader approach to design for reuse. For decades, the company has prioritized serviceability, repairability, and material efficiency to extend product lifecycles and reduce landfill waste. Its approach to circularity combines two elements: designing products for longevity and building systems that enable reuse at scale. Traditional furniture production follows a linear model in which products are made, used, and discarded. A circular model keeps materials in use for as long as possible, reducing resource extraction, energy consumption, emissions, and waste. Since materials such as wood, metal, and plastics are difficult to recycle, circular systems are increasingly important in addressing global waste challenges. To support this shift, Humanscale has spent years developing and testing circular processes through pilot programs and field learning, refining a system designed to scale as products reach the end of their first life.
Humanscale to explore "body. Planet. Materials." at Fulton Market Design Days 2026 featuring Diffrient Lounge, eFloat Quattro Studio, and M/Charge. (Chicago, Illinois - May 2026) - Humanscale, the leader in high-performance ergonomic design, will return to Fulton Market Design Days 2026 with a showcase centered on the future of adaptable, human-centered environments. Presented during the industry's leading commercial interiors event, Humanscale's exhibition will highlight solutions designed to support flexibility, wellness, and productivity across today's evolving workplaces as well as hospitality and residential environments. Guided by the theme "Body. Planet. Materials.," the presentation will explore the interconnected relationship between human wellbeing, sustainable innovation, and the future of materiality in design. A major component of the presentation will be a museum-style exhibition exploring Next Generation Materials and the future of sustainable manufacturing. Centered on the belief that the future of design depends on materials that support both human wellbeing and planetary health, the installation will showcase emerging innovations that transform waste into resources and biology into manufacturing. The exhibit will examine how these advanced materials can reduce reliance on virgin extraction while opening new possibilities for high-performance, environmentally responsible design. Expanding on the "Body. Planet. Materials." concept, the exhibition will also feature conversations and activations developed in collaboration with leading sustainability organizations including the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), Design for Freedom, and mindful MATERIALS, further reinforcing Humanscale's commitment to transparency, material health, and ethical manufacturing practices across the built environment. Among the featured products will be Diffrient Lounge, one of the final concepts envisioned by legendary designer Niels Diffrient and recently honored with a Red Dot Design Award in Product Design. Blending residential comfort with advanced ergonomic engineering, the lounge chair reimagines how people work, relax, and connect within hybrid environments. Motorized adjustments, integrated power, and an adaptable worksurface create a seamless experience that responds intuitively to the body while maintaining a refined, minimalist aesthetic while enabling smooth transitions between seated work, rest, and informal collaboration. Building on this platform, Humanscale will debut eFloat Quattro Studio, a purpose-built meeting table designed specifically for today's hybrid collaboration environments. Optimized for small-group meetings of two to seven people, eFloat Quattro Studio integrates connectivity, power, and display support directly into the table itself, simplifying meeting environments while enabling organizations to deploy collaborative spaces quickly and efficiently without complex AV infrastructure, permanent room builds, or extensive installation requirements. Designed to support both seated and standing collaboration, the solution creates flexible meeting environments that adapt seamlessly across open-office huddle spaces, executive offices, project review areas, and hybrid meeting rooms. The presentation will also feature M/Charge, Humanscale's new modular 2-in-1 magnetic wireless charging solution designed to integrate with the M/Connect 3 ecosystem while also functioning as a standalone charging dock. Supporting simultaneous dual-device charging through Qi2 and MagSafe-compatible technology, M/Charge delivers fast, efficient charging with magnetic alignment, flexible viewing angles, and a weighted metal base engineered for stability and effortless one-handed use. Designed for modern workspaces, hospitality settings, and residential environments alike, the solution reflects Humanscale's continued focus on intuitive functionality, seamless integration, and reduced desktop complexity. Humanscale's presence at Fulton Market Design Days will further underscore its broader commitment to sustainability and purposeful innovation. As the only major commercial furniture manufacturer in the United States certified as a B Corp, Humanscale will continue to develop products and processes that prioritize both human health and environmental responsibility through a net positive design approach that integrates material transparency, reduced environmental impact, and long-term product longevity. In addition to the showroom presentation, Humanscale will host a series of Fulton Market Design Days events and activations throughout the week designed to foster conversation around design, sustainability, and the future of work. Programming will include a Morning Walk/Jog Meet-Up on Monday, June 8 from 7:00-7:45 AM, followed by a Happy Hour with mindful MATERIALS from 5:00-6:00 PM and a Party at Federales from 6:00-9:00 PM. On Tuesday, June 9, Humanscale will host a Happy Hour with Living Future and Design for Freedom from 5:00-6:00 PM. The showroom, located at 345 N Morgan St., Suite 150 in Chicago, will remain open daily from 9:00 AM-6:00 PM throughout Fulton Market Design Days from June 8-10, 2026, with coffee and light fare available at The Emily Hotel café adjacent to the showroom. These events and activations will bring together designers, architects, sustainability leaders, brand partners, and members of the broader creative community for networking opportunities and discussions centered on innovation, wellbeing, and material transparency.
Humanscale to explore "body. Planet. Materials." at Fulton Market Design Days 2026 featuring Diffrient Lounge, eFloat Quattro Studio, and M/Charge. (Chicago, Illinois - May 2026) - Humanscale, the leader in high-performance ergonomic design, will return to Fulton Market Design Days 2026 with a showcase centered on the future of adaptable, human-centered environments. Presented during the industry's leading commercial interiors event, Humanscale's exhibition will highlight solutions designed to support flexibility, wellness, and productivity across today's evolving workplaces as well as hospitality and residential environments. Guided by the theme "Body. Planet. Materials.," the presentation will explore the interconnected relationship between human wellbeing, sustainable innovation, and the future of materiality in design. A major component of the presentation will be a museum-style exhibition exploring Next Generation Materials and the future of sustainable manufacturing. Centered on the belief that the future of design depends on materials that support both human wellbeing and planetary health, the installation will showcase emerging innovations that transform waste into resources and biology into manufacturing. The exhibit will examine how these advanced materials can reduce reliance on virgin extraction while opening new possibilities for high-performance, environmentally responsible design. Expanding on the "Body. Planet. Materials." concept, the exhibition will also feature conversations and activations developed in collaboration with leading sustainability organizations including the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), Design for Freedom, and mindful MATERIALS, further reinforcing Humanscale's commitment to transparency, material health, and ethical manufacturing practices across the built environment. Among the featured products will be Diffrient Lounge, one of the final concepts envisioned by legendary designer Niels Diffrient and recently honored with a Red Dot Design Award in Product Design. Blending residential comfort with advanced ergonomic engineering, the lounge chair reimagines how people work, relax, and connect within hybrid environments. Motorized adjustments, integrated power, and an adaptable worksurface create a seamless experience that responds intuitively to the body while maintaining a refined, minimalist aesthetic while enabling smooth transitions between seated work, rest, and informal collaboration. Building on this platform, Humanscale will debut eFloat Quattro Studio, a purpose-built meeting table designed specifically for today's hybrid collaboration environments. Optimized for small-group meetings of two to seven people, eFloat Quattro Studio integrates connectivity, power, and display support directly into the table itself, simplifying meeting environments while enabling organizations to deploy collaborative spaces quickly and efficiently without complex AV infrastructure, permanent room builds, or extensive installation requirements. Designed to support both seated and standing collaboration, the solution creates flexible meeting environments that adapt seamlessly across open-office huddle spaces, executive offices, project review areas, and hybrid meeting rooms. The presentation will also feature M/Charge, Humanscale's new modular 2-in-1 magnetic wireless charging solution designed to integrate with the M/Connect 3 ecosystem while also functioning as a standalone charging dock. Supporting simultaneous dual-device charging through Qi2 and MagSafe-compatible technology, M/Charge delivers fast, efficient charging with magnetic alignment, flexible viewing angles, and a weighted metal base engineered for stability and effortless one-handed use. Designed for modern workspaces, hospitality settings, and residential environments alike, the solution reflects Humanscale's continued focus on intuitive functionality, seamless integration, and reduced desktop complexity. Humanscale's presence at Fulton Market Design Days will further underscore its broader commitment to sustainability and purposeful innovation. As the only major commercial furniture manufacturer in the United States certified as a B Corp, Humanscale will continue to develop products and processes that prioritize both human health and environmental responsibility through a net positive design approach that integrates material transparency, reduced environmental impact, and long-term product longevity. In addition to the showroom presentation, Humanscale will host a series of Fulton Market Design Days events and activations throughout the week designed to foster conversation around design, sustainability, and the future of work. Programming will include a Morning Walk/Jog Meet-Up on Monday, June 8 from 7:00-7:45 AM, followed by a Happy Hour with mindful MATERIALS from 5:00-6:00 PM and a Party at Federales from 6:00-9:00 PM. On Tuesday, June 9, Humanscale will host a Happy Hour with Living Future and Design for Freedom from 5:00-6:00 PM. The showroom, located at 345 N Morgan St., Suite 150 in Chicago, will remain open daily from 9:00 AM-6:00 PM throughout Fulton Market Design Days from June 8-10, 2026, with coffee and light fare available at The Emily Hotel café adjacent to the showroom. These events and activations will bring together designers, architects, sustainability leaders, brand partners, and members of the broader creative community for networking opportunities and discussions centered on innovation, wellbeing, and material transparency.
Humanscale becomes the most decorated brand in category with recent iF and Red Dot award wins. (New York, NY - April 2026) - Humanscale has solidified its position as one of the most decorated global brands in the office furniture category, with multiple recognitions at the iF Design Award and Red Dot Design Award - two of the world's most prestigious design programs. Renowned for its focus on ergonomic innovation - including seating, sit-stand desks, and technology supports - Humanscale maintains a streamlined, purpose-driven portfolio compared to larger industry players such as Steelcase and MillerKnoll. Its design philosophy - rooted in simplicity, performance, and environmental responsibility - continues to define its global reputation. The company's 2026 wins across both award platforms further reinforce a legacy spanning more than four decades. This year, Humanscale received iF Design Awards for Humanscale Lounge and eFloat Quattro, alongside Red Dot Product Design Awards for Diffrient Lounge and M/Connect 3 (M/Series). These accolades underscore not only the strength of Humanscale's in-house design studio but also its ongoing collaborations with some of the world's leading industrial designers. Together, these partnerships have produced a portfolio distinguished by clarity of purpose, refined performance, and enduring relevance. At the core of every Humanscale product is a commitment to purposeful design - prioritizing function, eliminating unnecessary complexity, and promoting both human well-being and environmental health. This approach results in timeless solutions that deliver intuitive usability while minimizing environmental impact. "At Humanscale, design begins with a simple question: how can we make work healthier and easier for people?" said Sergio Silva, Vice President of Design and Innovation. "We're honored that this philosophy continues to resonate with the global design community. As we move forward, we remain committed to advancing climate-positive design solutions that benefit both people and the planet." While these awards mark a significant milestone, they also reflect Humanscale's broader mission: to create products that enhance the way people work while respecting the planet's finite resources. Discover more Newspapers Business News Weekly Business News Week