How Many People Work at Ginkgo Bioworks? Headcount and Employee Trends

Ginkgo Bioworks is a biotechnology company that specializes in cell programming and bioengineering services for partners across multiple industries. The organization employs just over 1,170 people and has recorded 11 new hires alongside 171 departures, indicating a recent net contraction of its overall workforce. While hiring remains selective, the company continues to maintain a sizeable talent base to support its foundry operations, biosecurity offerings, and custom organism development platform.

Engineering is the largest function at Ginkgo Bioworks with 496 employees, accounting for roughly two-fifths of total headcount. Operations, Sales & Support, Business Management, and Marketing & Product each range between 86 and 108 employees, reflecting a balanced mix of technical and commercial capabilities. Finance & Administration (71 employees) and Quality (59 employees) provide essential governance and compliance support, while Information Technology and Human Resources collectively add another 79 team members. An additional 79 employees are classified under "Other," which may encompass specialized scientific or cross-functional roles.

Ginkgo Bioworks’ largest talent hub is Boston, home to approximately 531 employees and the company’s main foundry facilities. Another 122 employees are based in San Francisco, giving the firm a strong presence on both U.S. coasts. Sacramento hosts 63 team members, while New York supports 39, and Washington, D.C. employs 25. Smaller clusters operate in Los Angeles, Chicago, San Diego, and Seattle. A significant remote or distributed workforce—labeled as "Other"—comprises 365 employees, underscoring the company’s flexible approach to location and talent acquisition.