Design Associate

(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities

 Compensation: Salary range starts at $65,000 per year

LWLA (Larry Weaner Landscape Associates) is nationally recognized for the creation of innovative, award-winning natural landscapes that combine environmental science with fine garden design. Founded in 1982 and based in suburban Philadelphia, LWLA is involved in projects of various scales and from design through implementation throughout the east coast and beyond. 

We offer a collaborative and congenial work environment and a competitive salary and benefits package including fully paid health insurance, paid/sick leave, paid holidays and a retirement plan with an employer contribution. We also encourage all employees to attend education seminars/classes as well as other opportunities for professional growth. 

This is a hybrid position: 2-3 days/week the associate will report to our office in Glenside, PA and can work from home 2-3 days a week. Our studio is located within walking distance of the North Hills train station, so a car is not required. 

Who we are looking for: 

LWLA seeks a highly motivated, extremely creative, organized, fun, and collaborative designer with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience. We are looking for someone who is passionate about designing with native plants, happily takes on responsibility and can work collaboratively in a close team environment with the ability and willingness to both give and receive direction.

Responsibilities/Duties

The associate, who will be responsible for projects from initial client consultation through job completion, will work with all staff on:  

  • Develop creative and functional design solutions for public and residential landscapes.
  • Site analysis and natural resource inventories in preparation for design work.
  • Serve as project manager through all aspects of documentation.
  • Detailed oversight in executing and contributing to graphic representations & technical project documentation
  • Preparation of client proposals, presentations, plans, design studies and drawings, construction documents
  • Writing of long-term project management documents.
  • Coordination and collaboration with contractors, clients, consultants and firm team members to bring projects to life.
  • Oversight of project installation.
  • Mentor junior designers and contribute to the overall growth of the team.

Qualifications/Requirements

  • 5+ years of landscape design experience (concept design through construction documentation), including both public and residential scale work.
  • Has strong knowledge of construction practices to effectively oversee the preparation of document sets including hardscape detailing, site grading, plant materials, and specifications.
  • High level of proficiency in planting design and knowledge of plants of the northeastern United States.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Construction Administration experience including job site meetings, issuing supplemental instructions, review of submittals and shop drawings during the construction phase.
  • Strong design, graphic, technical, and written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage own projects while assisting/overseeing other staff in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment. [RK1] [JW2]
  • Project experience that includes ecological restoration and innovative sustainable design strategies.
  • Understanding of pertinent state, and local codes/regulations as relevant to LWLA’s typical scope of work.[RK3]
  • Proficiency with design, spreadsheet, and word processing software (AutoCAD, Creative Suite, MS Office). Hand sketching and drawing skills are a plus.
  • A Bachelor's or Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture is required.
    Candidates with additional background, experience or education are
    encouraged to share details.
  • Capacity for regular project-related travel
  • Valid Driver’s License

Additional Information

We offer competitive benefits including paid vacation, 401k, medical and dental insurance.  

  • 9 paid holidays including 2 floating holidays
  • 15 days of paid time off/sick leave to start.
  • Up to 3% matching contribution to SIMPLE IRA
  • Medical insurance (LWLA covers 100% for employee)
  • Dental insurance (LWLA covers 100% for employee)
  • Core working hours with some flexibility and work from home/in-office schedule
  • Short-term disability insurance
  • Life Insurance

SALARY

The salary range for this position starts at $65,000.

The actual salary offered for this position will vary depending on multiple factors including the candidate’s qualification, education, position knowledge, work experience, skills, ability. The salary range listed above does not include other compensation elements such as discretionary bonus opportunities, paid time off, medical insurance, and other wage and benefit opportunities.

TO APPLY

We will be accepting applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Interested applicants please send a portfolio, resume, and letter of interest to Rebecca Kagle, rebecca (at) lwladesign (dot) com

Work samples must demonstrate native planting design and construction experience. No telephone inquiries please. While every applicant’s interest is appreciated, only those under consideration will be contacted.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. We strongly value diversity and an inclusive workplace.

Contact Information

LWLA
Contact Name: Rebecca Kagle
Email: rebecca@lwladesign.com