Designer III

Position Overview

Designer IIIs will interface with project design teams and develop and advance projects in all phases of the design process. They will work on a variety of exciting projects serving some of our key market sectors including residential, commercial, institutional, municipal, parks & recreation and urban design. Compared to a Designer II, a Designer III will demonstrate very strong design proficiency and be able to navigate complex design challenges with limited supervision. Designer IIIs will also handle more involved client communication/coordination as well as play a larger role in training and mentoring junior design staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of landscape design concepts, plans, and drawings for various projects, including parks, commercial developments, residential communities, and public spaces
• Prepare accurate CAD drawings, construction documents, and assist with preparing technical specifications, ensuring all materials meet industry standards and project requirements, including McAdams CAD and other standards
• Demonstrate advanced graphic communication skills necessary to communicate design concepts, contribute to the 'visioning' process, and document the progression of a design
• Conduct site analyses, including measurements, observations, and assessments of existing conditions to inform design decisions
• Utilize design software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite) to create visual representations of landscape designs and prepare presentation materials
• Develop plant schedules, details, and specifications to ensure alignment with project design goals, environmental considerations, and aesthetic requirements
• Review project deliverables for accuracy and quality, ensuring that all designs meet firm standards and regulatory requirements
• Assist PM by serving as a key point of contact for project coordination matters, collaborating with internal teams, clients, consultants, and municipal agencies to ensure cohesive project progression
• Collaborate with senior design staff and project managers to develop project proposals, presentations, and design reports
• Assist in coordinating with other disciplines (e.g., civil engineering, etc.) to ensure integrated project delivery
• Participate in design charettes and brainstorming sessions to generate creative ideas and solutions
• Present preliminary design solutions to clients and maintain open lines of communication with clients, outside professionals, and municipal agencies to facilitate smooth project progress
• Provide guidance to junior designers, offering technical and design mentorship to support team development and ensure high-quality project output
• Research and stay updated on industry trends, materials, plants, and sustainable design practices
• Develop and maintain an advanced understanding of local municipal codes and regulations, applying this knowledge to ensure that proposed design solutions comply with zoning, permitting, and environmental standards throughout the project lifecycle
• Assist with project pursuits by preparing high-quality exhibits, graphics, and written materials that effectively communicate design concepts and enhance proposal presentations
• Conduct construction site visits and field observations under the guidance of the Project Manager, gaining hands-on experience in construction administration to ensure design intent and quality standards are met
• Contributes to and helps enhance team chemistry and culture
• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills + Experience

• Bachelor's or advanced degree from an accredited program in Landscape Architecture, City/Community/Regional Planning, Urban Planning, or related field required
• Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in Landscape Architectural design or equivalent required
• Executing a plan to attain LA Licensure
• Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office; 3-D software such as SketchUp, and hand/digital graphic rendering capabilities
• Display exceptional oral and written communication and interpersonal skills to present materials to clients, development team, stakeholders, general public, etc.
• Demonstrates advanced knowledge of design, planning, and regulatory requirements and standards
• Excellent communication, critical thinking, collaboration and problem-solving skills
• Self-starter with strong drive for personal growth and a commitment to continuous improvement
• Excellent organizational and time management skills to facilitate accurate, efficient, and quality project deliverables
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a team

Work Environment + Physical Demands

The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. When properly requested and when feasible (without undue hardship to the company), reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

• Work will primarily be in an office setting with limited opportunities to be exposed to adverse environmental conditions, however when conducting field work, exposure to outside environmental conditions should be expected.
• Work will be primarily working with fingers by picking, pinching, typing, and grasping often with repetitive motion.
• Must have visual acuity for viewing a computer screen, the ability to talk, hear and sit for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to carry, lift and push/pull up to 5 pounds frequently and up to 30 pounds occasionally. When working in the field, the need to carry, lift and push/pull up to 50 or higher pounds may occur.
• Field based work will involve long-term standing and frequent walking as well as include common hazards encountered while maneuvering through project sites.
• Must have the ability to see, smell, hear, talk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel and twist, crouch, crawl, reach, grasp, sit, stand, and walk.
• Additional physical duties may be required as necessary.