Landscape Architect

RSL is seeking a motivated and creative Landscape Architect with ideally three years of experience to join our flourishing team. The Landscape Architect supports the design and implementation of projects, focusing on developing concepts, preparing technical drawings, and contributing to project management under the guidance of senior team members. You will work on a variety of exciting projects, taking them from concept design through to on-site implementation. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career and contribute to projects that have a global impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Planning: Lead and contribute to a variety of projects mostly focusing on private gardens, from concept design through to completion on site.
• Visuals & Presentations: Prepare high-quality 3D visuals using SketchUp and Lumion, as well as detailed design drawings and planting plans for planning, tender, and construction stages.
• Project Management: Independently produce drawing packages, manage projects, and ensure timely completion, with guidance from senior Landscape Architects.
• Client & Stakeholder Interaction: Attend design meetings, key presentations, and site visits; communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders, ensuring all expectations are met.
• Plant & Material Selection: Recommend, select, approve, and inspect plant materials and landscape treatments, ensuring they meet the high standards of RSL.
• Problem-Solving: Proactively resolve any project-related issues and seek assistance from senior team members when required.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure all work adheres to the RSL scope of services and fee proposals and supervise landscape installations in coordination with the construction department or external contractors.

Requirements

• Essential Skills: Strong interest and proven skills in landscape design and project management. Proficiency in AutoCAD, Keyscape, SketchUp, Lumion, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office. Excellent design and technical skills, with the ability to develop and communicate design ideas from early concepts through to technical stages. Ability to manage complex projects and work seamlessly within larger teams. Solid practice experience with a proactive approach, taking pride in delivering high-quality work. Strong communication and management skills, with excellent spoken and written English. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, ensuring work is completed to the highest standard. A shared ethos of producing beautiful, thoughtful work for discerning clients.
• Desirable Skills: Thorough understanding of the deliverables required at each RIBA work stage. Growing knowledge of construction detailing and on-site experience. Sound knowledge of plants, plant selection, and their appropriate use in various landscapes. Familiarity with Building Control regulations as they apply to Landscape Architecture. Understanding of the UK planning system and experience in producing planning applications. Knowledge of CDM regulations and the ability to assist in administrative duties. Proven ability to deal with clients and contractors courteously and professionally.
• Project Management: Manage and set tasks for junior colleagues, monitoring progress and providing guidance as needed. Ensure clarity on tasks, deadlines, and project objectives, and complete work to the required standard. Submit completed work in advance of deadlines to allow for review and feedback from project leads. Track hours spent on tasks and projects, working efficiently to meet time and budget targets.

Professional Qualifications

• Degree in Landscape Architecture or Garden Design.
• Enrolled on the Pathway to Chartership (P2C) or independently studying the syllabus.

Benefits

• 20 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays
• Birthday day off
• Discretionary Annual profitability bonus
• Refer a friend bonus (£500 after tax)
• Company sick pay
• Health Cash Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee e-learning platform
• Cycle to Work Scheme