Principal Landscape Architect

Job Description

Job Description

Principal Landscape Architect

This senior-level design leadership role is responsible for overseeing conceptual design and strategic direction for high-profile residential outdoor environments. Reporting to the firm's leadership, the primary objective is to manage 30 percent of the current design workload while mentoring staff and establishing rigorous design standards.

Based in Sterling, VA, this award-winning luxury outdoor living firm specializes in the integrated design and construction of complex residential havens across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. Recognized for exceptional craftsmanship and a concierge-level approach, the organization offers a highly stable, collaborative environment with long-term leadership growth potential.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual design, site planning, and grading for significant luxury residential projects, taking ownership of approximately 30% of the firm's design workload.
• Participate in client discovery meetings, deliver high-profile design presentations, and serve as a trusted client advisor throughout the project lifecycle.
• Mentor and develop designers across all experience levels by conducting ongoing project critiques and establishing training initiatives.
• Collaborate closely with internal design and construction teams to successfully transition ambitious design concepts into feasible realities.
• Drive business development and industry leadership by nurturing relationships with prospective clients, architects, builders, and other industry professionals.
• Maintain and elevate design standards, integrating emerging technologies, industry trends, and Mid-Atlantic regional horticultural practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from an accredited program, accompanied by an active Landscape Architect License.
• 10+ years of professional landscape architecture experience, with a mandatory and dedicated focus on high-end residential design rather than commercial projects.
• Extensive regional horticultural knowledge, specifically regarding the Mid-Atlantic and East Coast planting palette.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, as well as a strong understanding of grading, drainage, construction detailing, and permitting processes.
• Experience with 3D visualization platforms such as Lumion, SketchUp, Realtime Landscape Architect, or Pool Studio is highly preferred.
• Submission of a comprehensive portfolio demonstrating design excellence and alignment with high-caliber luxury outdoor living standards.

Compensation & Benefits

• $120,000 - $200,000 per year (with incentives), commensurate with experience and candidate background.
• 401(k) with company match
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Paid time off and flexible scheduling options
• Relocation assistance available for the right candidate

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