Associate Landscape Designer - NorCal

Role Overview

The Associate Landscape Designer supports project delivery through design development, documentation, and coordination while mentoring junior staff and contributing to project management efforts. This role works closely with senior leadership and Project Managers on small to mid-sized projects, and as a sub–project manager on larger efforts. The position balances hands-on production with growing responsibility in coordination, design leadership, and execution.

Background Profile

• 4–8 years of professional experience
• Professional degree in Landscape Architecture (BSLA, BLA, MLA), Architecture (BA, MA), or Planning

Reporting Structure

• Reports to Principal-in-Charge and Project Manager

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of project roles, scopes, and team responsibilities
• Ability to manage small to mid-sized projects or support larger projects with senior guidance
• Sound judgment in knowing when to seek direction and how to apply feedback effectively
• Clear understanding of consultant, client, and contractor coordination
• Professional communication skills when working with internal teams and external partners
• Proficiency in office standards, documentation protocols, and operational systems
• Ability to mentor junior staff in CAD and Adobe Creative Suite
• Consistent production of high-quality graphic, illustrative, and technical deliverables
• Working knowledge of construction documents and basic specifications
• Ability to assist in leading design development and documentation efforts, including grading, drainage, lighting, planting, and construction details

Responsibilities

• Support development of work plans and project tracking with senior leadership
• Execute project management tasks for small to mid-sized projects
• Maintain clear understanding of project scope, schedule, goals, and budget
• Contribute original design ideas and refine concepts with senior team members
• Communicate with clients as directed by Project Manager or Principal-in-Charge
• Coordinate with consultants and regulatory agencies as needed
• Assist in consultant coordination to ensure alignment on scope, schedule, and deliverables
• Participate in site visits and project reviews
• Direct and contribute to illustrative deliverables using Adobe Suite and hand graphics
• Direct and contribute to construction documentation through CAD drafting
• Conduct materials and product research
• Support efficient staff utilization and communicate resource needs proactively
• Maintain project deadlines, quality standards, and budget awareness
• Organize and participate in internal and consultant meetings
• Provide flexible support across projects, including production and sub–project management roles

Measures of Success

• Demonstrated professional growth and increasing responsibility
• Clear understanding of task objectives and project goals
• Development of project management skills with senior support
• Consistent delivery of high-quality work
• Effective mentorship and guidance of junior staff
• Strong collaboration with project teams
• Contribution to broader office initiatives