Landscape Architect

Roles and responsibilities

Your responsibilities are:

• Perform all phases of the design process including Concept, Schematic and Detailed Design Documentation, writing specification, report, 3D modeling, submittals & permitting, hardscape and plant material selection.
• Deliver entire technical landscape packages independently with review from senior team.
• Organization of project materials & information according to Design Process.
• Coordinate with all fields and sub-consultants.
• Connect with highly effective questions and problem-solving skills.
• Manages, coordinates, and leads landscape design projects independently with less oversight.
• Participate in Technical Design workshops / Design charettes.
• Leads the in production of project design reports and Detailing.
• Provide landscape design solutions from Concept to DD.
• Must have worked / completed Landscape projects using Revit.
• Understands all applicable UAE authorities’ requirements and coordinates with various field’s technical inputs into a project.
• Coordinating with design Engineers for resolution of related issues.
  

About you:

• Bachelor’s or master's degree in the area of expertise.
• Registered professional membership is preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in UAE and the Gulf region.
• Proficiency in the following programs is a must: AutoCAD, Revit, Photoshop, Sketch-up (or similar 3D programs), In-Design, Illustrator, Excel, and other MS Office programs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to be organized, proactive, and prioritize multiple tasks both independently and with the team.
• Aware of the UAE public realm guidelines generally and International standard methodologies of Landscape Architecture.

Desired candidate profile

1. Design Skills

• Creative Vision: Ability to develop innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs for outdoor spaces that meet functional, ecological, and cultural needs.
• Conceptual Design: Proficiency in conceptualizing and sketching design ideas, including layout, planting schemes, hardscaping, and water features.
• Master Planning: Developing large-scale, integrated site plans that address all aspects of landscape design, including circulation, planting, stormwater management, and spatial organization.
• Sustainability: Knowledge of sustainable design practices, such as using native plants, water-efficient systems, and designing for climate resilience.

2. Technical Skills

• Site Analysis and Assessment: Ability to evaluate site conditions, including topography, climate, soil, vegetation, and human use, and incorporate these into design decisions.
• AutoCAD and Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, or GIS for drafting, modeling, and visualizing designs.
• 3D Visualization and Rendering: Skills in creating 3D models and renderings using software like Lumion, V-Ray, or Adobe Creative Suite to present design concepts.
• Landscape Construction Documentation: Ability to produce detailed construction drawings, specifications, and documentation for landscape installation.

3. Environmental and Ecological Knowledge

• Environmental Design: Understanding of how to design spaces that respect and enhance the natural environment, promoting biodiversity, reducing environmental impact, and improving ecosystem services.
• Stormwater Management: Experience in designing sustainable stormwater management solutions, such as bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable paving.
• Ecological Restoration: Knowledge of ecological restoration techniques for rehabilitating damaged landscapes or creating habitats for wildlife.
• Climate Adaptation: Designing for climate change adaptation, including heat island reduction, flood risk management, and choosing appropriate materials for changing environmental conditions.

4. Project Management

• Leadership and Team Collaboration: Leading and mentoring junior landscape architects and supporting cross-disciplinary teams, including architects, engineers, and urban planners.
• Budget Management: Ability to manage project budgets effectively, ensuring that designs are both feasible and cost-efficient.
• Timeline Management: Coordinating project schedules to ensure timely delivery of projects, meeting deadlines while adhering to quality standards.
• Client Management: Interfacing with clients to understand their needs, communicate design intent, and present ideas clearly and persuasively.

5. Regulatory Knowledge

• Zoning and Permitting: Familiarity with local zoning laws, land use regulations, environmental laws, and permitting processes.
• Accessibility Standards: Understanding of accessibility codes (e.g., ADA guidelines) and ensuring that landscapes are accessible to all users.
• Health and Safety Regulations: Knowledge of safety standards for public spaces and ensuring designs meet safety requirements.

6. Communication and Presentation Skills

• Client Presentations: Ability to present design proposals clearly and confidently to clients, stakeholders, or public forums, using visual aids such as renderings, models, and site plans.
• Public Engagement: Facilitating public consultations and engaging with communities to ensure that design decisions reflect public input and meet social needs.
• Report Writing: Ability to prepare reports, including design briefs, environmental impact assessments, and project progress reports, in clear and concise language.