Landscape Architect / Designer – High-End Residential Outdoor Living

Title: Landscape Architect / Designer – High-End Residential Outdoor Living

Location: Elmhurst, Illinois

Overview

Our client is a leading high-end residential design/build firm specializing in modern outdoor living spaces. They are seeking a Landscape Architect / Designer who can step into a turn-key role and make an immediate impact on complex residential projects, from concept through construction.

What you’ll do

• Lead the design and documentation of high-end residential outdoor living projects, including patios, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, seating and retaining walls, and planting schemes.
• Produce constructible plans and permit-ready construction drawings in AutoCAD, including grading, drainage, and detailed layout plans.
• Develop and refine 3D models and visualizations in SketchUp (or similar) as part of a collaborative studio environment.
• Support accurate estimating and budgeting by performing takeoffs and working within Aspire or similar industry software.
• Collaborate closely with other designers, the design/build sales team, and construction teams to ensure design intent is carried through to the field.
• Coordinate with outside professionals (architects, engineers, soil scientists) as needed during design and documentation.
• Participate in occasional site visits for measurements, photos, and information gathering; most work is office/studio-based.

What we’re looking for

• 3–5+ years of experience in high-end residential landscape design/build with a strong focus on outdoor living spaces.
• Proven proficiency in AutoCAD for producing full construction and permitting sets.
• Strong working skills in SketchUp or another 3D modeling tool, including basic visuals and massing for client presentations.
• Experience with estimating and takeoffs; familiarity with Aspire or similar green industry software is a major plus.
• Solid technical understanding of grading, drainage, hardscape, and planting design; experience collaborating on pools, spas, and water features is a plus (trainable).
• Portfolio that demonstrates a mix of built work, design drawings, and construction details, preferably with a modern / contemporary aesthetic.
• Highly organized, clear and proactive communicator, with a strong sense of urgency and ability to juggle multiple projects in a fast-paced season.
• Team-oriented mindset and comfort working in a collaborative studio environment.
• Degree in Landscape Architecture or closely related field preferred; licensure is a plus, but not required if your education/experience would qualify you for licensure.

Compensation & benefits

• Base salary starting around $90,000+, commensurate with experience.
• Annual incentive bonus opportunity of up to $20,000+ based on division performance.
• Additional benefits package discussed during the interview process.

How to apply

• Please submit your resume and a digital portfolio or organized work samples.
• Portfolios should include a mix of built projects (when available) and design/construction drawing sets that reflect your role on each project.