Associate Designer

We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Associate Designer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will assist in the development and execution of landscape designs, support project coordination, and contribute to the overall success of our projects. This position offers an excellent opportunity to grow within the landscape design industry while working on a variety of exciting projects.REPONSIBILITIESDrafting Rendering + design productionProduce construction documents in Vectorworks - site layout plans, design development, planting plans, grading, lighting plans, irrigation diagrams, and detail sheetsDraft schematic design plans and early-phase concept drawings at the direction of the Design Director or Principal DesignerPrepare planting plans with accurate plant symbols, callouts, quantities, and planting schedulesDraft construction details - walls, steps, paving patterns, drainage conditions, and edge details - per studio standardsProduce base maps from survey data, and site measurementsMaintain studio CAD standards, layer conventions, and file naming protocols on every projectDevelop 3D models and renderings in SketchUp or relative drafting systems to support design presentations, client communication, and design developmentProduce photorealistic or illustrative rendered views that clearly convey spatial relationships, materiality, and planting intentPresentations + visual communicationProduce rendering support and visual diagrams to communicate design intentSupport the Design Director and Principal Designer in preparing client meeting materialsParticipate in team meetings and provide design input based on project requirements and company standardsStudio operations + management supportMaintain organized digital project files across all active projects - folder structure, naming, and version control per studio standardsAnswering studio phone to field inquires and manage the studio lead trackerSupport client communication logistics - scheduling meetings, sending follow-up summaries, tracking outstanding decisions and approvalsAssist with project pipeline tracking - monitoring phase progress, flagging schedule risks, and keeping project records currentMaintain the studio's physical and digital material library - organize samples, update vendor contacts, and track new product additionsCoordinate photography scheduling for completed projects in collaboration with the Design DirectorAssist with preparation of proposals and design agreements at the direction of the Design DirectorSite MeasuringFamiliar with elevations, in-field site measurements and documenting existing conditionsPrepare base condition notes, and photo logs following site visitsSupport the Project Designer on site visits during construction as needed -observe, document, and flag items for follow-upResearch + plant knowledgeResearch plant materials, hardscape products, lighting fixtures, and sustainable design solutions at the direction of the Project DesignerDevelop and expand plant knowledge - California natives, drought-tolerant species, and Bay Area climate-appropriate selectionsAssist with maintaining the studio's plant palette library and reference documentation QUALIFICATIONSBachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture, Environmental Design, Horticulture, or a related field.1-3 years of experience in landscape design or a related role (internships included).Proficiency in design software REQUIRED: Vectorworks, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.Strong understanding of landscape design principles, plant materials, and hardscape elements.Excellent communication and presentation skills.Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.Passion for sustainable and environmentally responsible design solutions.WHAT WE OFFER:Competitive salary based on experience rangeOpportunities for professional development and career growthA collaborative and creative work environmentHealth, dental, and vision insurancePaid time off and holidaysAt this time we are unable to sponsor visas or H-1B petitions for this role