At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and manage exciting landscape projects that enhance communities and the environment.
- Company: Join Somerset Council, a diverse and inclusive organisation dedicated to serving the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, gym discounts, and a great pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in sustainability and community development while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualification in Landscape Architecture and experience in project delivery required.
- Other info: Hybrid working options and a supportive team environment await you!
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 46000 £ per year.
Overview
Join to apply for the Landscape Architect role at Somerset Council.
Location: County Hall, Taunton. Hybrid working with some working from home and flexible hours.
What you will be doing
- Designing, specifying and project managing a wide range of landscape-based projects, including education, sport & play, regeneration, transport and highways schemes.
- Preparing drawings and visuals using KeyScape CAD and hand drawing techniques to produce concept designs, masterplans, and detailed construction drawings.
- Client & stakeholder collaboration – meeting clients, members and other stakeholders to understand project constraints and opportunities.
- Project management – overseeing landscape construction, managing budgets, timelines, and contractors to ensure designs are implemented correctly.
- Planning applications – submitting planning applications for projects including appropriate drawings, statements and reports.
- Compliance – ensuring all works are compliant with building regulations, CDM (principal designer role), government procurement regulations, and planning and environmental standards.
- Sustainability and ecology – incorporating climate-resilient design, flood prevention and biodiversity into project designs where possible to support the council’s aspirations.
What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?
- Hold a relevant qualification in Landscape Architecture or equivalent.
- Proven experience of designing and delivering a wide range of external works projects.
- High level of knowledge, understanding and experience of all aspects of landscape and green infrastructure.
- Ability to work positively with a range of stakeholders and customers.
- Experience with the UK planning application process.
- Good communication and negotiation skills.
- Proficiency in IT packages, including KeyScape (or AutoCAD or similar), Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams.
Values and team
We’re proud to be here for the people of Somerset. We aim to be diverse and inclusive, reflecting the communities we serve. We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and experiences. If you want to discuss anything before you apply, you can contact the hiring manager.
What’s in it for me?
- We promote a healthy work-life balance with flexible working arrangements, including working from home where possible.
- Generous annual leave allowance, with the option to purchase additional leave.
- Staff discounts in gyms.
- Employee Assistance and wellbeing services.
- Auto-enrolment into a generous Pension Scheme with optional AVC.
- Flexible Benefits Scheme via salary sacrifice for cycles and health screenings.
- My Staff Shop discounts on shops, online shopping, restaurants, cinema tickets, insurance benefits and more.
Additional information
Salary: £37,280 – £41,771 per annum.
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Chris Winn, Service Manager – Grounds & Landscape Operations, Tel: 01823 355874, chris.winn@somerset.gov.uk.
DBS information: This role requires a criminal background check (DBS) via the Disclosure procedure.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
Industries
- Government Administration
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Landscape Architect employer: Somerset Council
Contact Detail:
Somerset Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Landscape Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Somerset Council and their landscape projects. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to landscape architecture. Think about how your experience aligns with their projects and be ready to discuss specific examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Somerset Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Landscape Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience in landscape architecture. We want to see how you've designed and delivered projects before, so don’t hold back on the details!
Tailor Your Application: Make your application stand out by tailoring it to the role. Use the job description as a guide and sprinkle in relevant keywords that match what we're looking for. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your passion for landscape architecture shines through!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Somerset Council
✨Know Your Projects
Before the interview, brush up on your past landscape projects. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This shows your practical experience and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for the role.
✨Master the Tools
Familiarise yourself with KeyScape CAD and any other relevant software. If you can, bring along examples of your work or even a portfolio. Demonstrating your technical skills will give you an edge and show that you're prepared for the job.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since client and stakeholder collaboration is key, think of examples where you've successfully worked with different parties. Be ready to discuss how you managed expectations and communicated effectively to ensure project success.
✨Sustainability Matters
Given the emphasis on sustainability in the job description, prepare to talk about how you've incorporated eco-friendly practices into your designs. Highlight any experience with climate-resilient design or biodiversity initiatives to align with the council's aspirations.