Associate Landscape Architect

Roles and responsibilities

• 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.
• Delivers entire technical landscape packages independently with review from senior team.
• Organization of project materials & information according to Design Process
• Coordinate with all disciplines and sub-consultants.
• Communicate 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 discipline’s technical inputs into a project.
• Coordinating with design Engineers for resolution of related issues.
  

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum 10 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 best practices of Landscape Architecture.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelors or Masters degree in the area of expertise.
• Registered professional membership.

Desired candidate profile

1. Landscape Design and Planning

• Site Analysis: Conducting detailed site analysis, including studying environmental conditions, soil types, climate, hydrology, and topography to inform design decisions.
• Conceptual Design: Developing creative and functional design concepts for outdoor spaces, including gardens, plazas, urban parks, streetscapes, and institutional grounds.
• Design Development: Transforming initial ideas into detailed designs, incorporating hardscape (e.g., pavements, walls, lighting) and softscape (e.g., plant selection, green spaces) elements.
• Sustainability: Designing with a focus on sustainability, using native plants, water conservation techniques, and materials that are environmentally responsible.
• Visual Aesthetics: Creating visually compelling, harmonious landscapes by understanding color, texture, scale, and visual balance in the outdoor space.

2. Project Management and Leadership

• Project Coordination: Managing all phases of landscape architecture projects from conceptual design through construction and maintenance. Ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
• Client Relations: Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and translating them into functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.
• Team Leadership: Leading multidisciplinary teams, including junior landscape architects, drafters, and external consultants. Assigning tasks, providing mentorship, and ensuring the team collaborates efficiently.
• Budgeting and Scheduling: Managing project budgets, schedules, and resources to ensure that projects are executed within financial and time constraints.

3. Environmental and Ecological Expertise

• Ecological Restoration: Knowledge of ecological restoration techniques, such as soil remediation, invasive species removal, and habitat restoration, particularly for projects in natural environments.
• Stormwater Management: Designing systems for managing stormwater runoff, such as rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable surfaces, to reduce flooding and enhance water quality.
• Sustainable Practices: Applying principles of sustainability, including using local and sustainable materials, promoting biodiversity, and reducing environmental impact.
• Plant Selection: In-depth knowledge of plants, including their growth habits, ecological needs, and suitability for different climates and soil types.

4. Technical Skills

• AutoCAD and BIM: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or other design software to produce detailed landscape plans, technical drawings, and 3D visualizations.
• GIS (Geographic Information Systems): Using GIS for spatial analysis, land use planning, and environmental assessments.
• 3D Visualization: Creating detailed renderings and 3D models of proposed landscapes using tools like SketchUp, Lumion, or Adobe Creative Suite for presentations and client approvals.
• Construction Documentation: Preparing comprehensive construction documentation, including plans, specifications, and bidding packages, to guide contractors during construction.

5. Legal and Regulatory Knowledge

• Building Codes and Zoning Laws: Understanding and applying relevant building codes, zoning laws, environmental regulations, and local government policies that affect landscape projects.
• Permitting and Approvals: Managing the permitting process for projects, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations, and navigating municipal approval processes.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential risks related to design, construction, and environmental impacts, and proactively addressing them.