Pros
Cecconi Simone is a good starting point if you're new to the Canadian job market. They're willing to hire designers with no Canadian experience, and the team is generally patient and willing to teach. The firm works on great projects, mainly mixed-use high-rise residential, and the office is conveniently located in downtown Toronto, which is a plus for commuting. They do care about design, though this depends heavily on which team you end up working with. If you're a newcomer looking to get your foot in the door, this is a solid opportunity to gain valuable Canadian experience.
Cons
Unfortunately, poor management is a significant issue. Upper management often makes promises they don't deliver on, and it's clear they hire designers with little experience because it's a source of cheaper labor. As a result, salaries are below average, and it's not uncommon to feel like you're undervalued in terms of compensation. The decision-makers at the top aren't involved with the designers day-to-day, which puts pressure on the associates to mentor and manage the inexperienced staff. While associates are paid better, it's still not very competitive, and upper management seems to reap most of the rewards. Employee retention is a real problem here—there’s a revolving door of staff, making the environment feel unstable at times. This isn't the best place if you're looking for strong work-life balance. The workload can be heavy, and benefits don't cover family members. There’s also no profit sharing or bonuses, which makes it less appealing for those looking to build a long-term career. If you’re just starting out and need Canadian experience, Cecconi Simone is a great place to start. But for those with experience, there are better options out there, especially if you're looking for better pay, benefits, work-life balance, and longevity in a career.
