What are the responsibilities and job description for the Landscape Architect / Designer position at Christian Douglas Design?
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT / DESIGNER – JOB DESCRIPTION
Who We Are
CD Design is a purpose-led landscape architecture and design firm grounded in ecological stewardship and the integration of food into the built environment. We are a supportive team of motivated designers, landscape architects, and professional urban farmers, united by a shared commitment to creating meaningful, responsive landscapes. Our work spans residential homes, world-class wineries, and innovative urban agriculture sites - each designed with sensitivity to its unique environment and community.
Who You Are
You are a collaborative and experienced Landscape Architect or Designer with a passion for thoughtful, site-specific design; excited to contribute to immersive, forward-thinking landscapes across the Bay Area and beyond. Valuing ecological integrity, creative process, and long-term impact, you're eager to grow with a team shaping the future of landscape design through food production, regional ecology and deep client relationships.
About the Role
In this role, you’ll contribute to the full life cycle of projects—from early concept development to construction administration. You’ll work closely with our in-house team and external collaborators, including architects, engineers, and interior designers, to help translate ecological intent into thoughtful, buildable design. Our ideal candidate is both creatively driven and technically grounded, with strong communication skills and a desire to help deliver transformative landscapes.
Responsibilities
- Support Principals in collaborative design projects and drafting.
- Execute designs from concept ideation through construction documentation, including schematic design, construction documents, and project administration.
- Prepare take-offs, project budgets, and permit submittal sets.
- Develop planting plans and source plant materials.
- Prepare design review presentations; 3D modeling/rendering (hand-drawn or digital) is a plus.
- Conduct on-site construction administration, including observations, punch-lists, and coordination during all phases of construction.
- Research materials, planting palettes, and construction methods relevant to project goals.
- Analyze environmental reports and site surveys to evaluate factors such as drainage, soil health, and energy efficiency.
- Assist Project Architects and Project Managers in the execution of specific assignments.
- Manage project timelines and deliverables while facilitating clear communication with clients, consultants, contractors, and design collaborators - including architects, engineers, and interior designers - to ensure cohesive execution from concept through construction.
Experience & Qualifications
- Undergraduate or graduate degree in Landscape Architecture; licensure is a plus but not required.
- 5 years of experience in a landscape architecture or design firm, or as an independent designer.
- 5 years of experience working closely with architects and/or general contractors from schematic design through construction documentation.
- Experience preparing and submitting permit sets to local planning and building departments.
- Fluency in AutoCAD is required; experience with SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and other presentation tools is preferred.
- Strong graphic and design sketching skills - digital or hand-drawn.
- Clear, confident written and verbal communication; sophisticated communication is essential at CD Design.
- Ability to manage time effectively and work across multiple active projects.
- Curious, open-minded, and eager to learn and take on increasing responsibility.
- Self-sufficient and capable of bringing a project from concept to completion.
Terms
- Full-time position following a three-month trial period
- Projects primarily based in Marin, SF Peninsula, Sonoma/Napa Counties.
- Flexible hybrid schedule: office-based (San Rafael), remote, and on-site work
- Competitive salary and benefits, commensurate with experience
How to Apply
Please email the following materials to rebecca@christian-douglas.com:
- Portfolio of recent original work
- Resume
- Contact information for two or more references