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Assistant Landscape Designer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Pennoni

Graduate Landscape Architect

Leesburg, VA

$72K - $100K/yr

Primary Responsibilities: * Assist with the preparation of land development, landscape architecture ... designed communities. In our Leesburg office, you will build hands-on experience on site ...

Pennoni

Graduate Landscape Architect

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

Primary Responsibilities: * Assist with the preparation of land development, landscape architecture ... designed communities. In our Leesburg office, you will build hands-on experience on site ...

George Sexton Associates, LLC

Be Seen First

Junior Lighting Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

... landscapes and parks, capitol buildings, opera houses, libraries, hospitals, office buildings ... assist with the development of effective design solutions that are informed by budget and ...

George Sexton Associates, LLC

Be Seen First

Junior Lighting Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

... landscapes and parks, capitol buildings, opera houses, libraries, hospitals, office buildings ... assist with the development of effective design solutions that are informed by budget and ...

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Assistant Landscape Designer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$11

$25

$40

How much do assistant landscape designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant landscape designer in Reston, VA is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $29.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant landscape designer do?

An Assistant Landscape Designer supports licensed landscape architects or senior designers in planning and creating outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and commercial developments. Their responsibilities typically include drafting design plans, conducting site analysis, sourcing materials, and preparing presentations for clients. They may also assist in researching plant species, collaborating with contractors, and ensuring designs comply with local regulations. This entry-level role provides valuable hands-on experience in the landscape design process and helps build a foundation for future advancement in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant landscape designer?

To thrive as an Assistant Landscape Designer, you need a solid understanding of landscape architecture principles, horticulture, and drafting, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required, along with familiarity with project management tools. Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills help you effectively support senior designers and coordinate with clients and contractors. These skills ensure you can contribute creatively and efficiently to landscape projects, meet client needs, and help deliver successful design outcomes.

What are some common challenges assistant landscape designers face when working on large-scale projects?

Assistant Landscape Designers often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with client budgets, coordinating with multiple stakeholders like architects and contractors, and managing changes in project scope or timelines. They also need to ensure that their design proposals comply with local regulations and environmental considerations. Working on large teams requires strong communication and organizational skills to keep projects on track and deliver cohesive results.

What is the difference between Assistant Landscape Designer vs Landscape Architect?

AspectAssistant Landscape DesignerLandscape Architect
CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Landscape Design or related fieldProfessional degree (Bachelor's or Master's in Landscape Architecture), licensure often required
Work EnvironmentAssists in design development, site planning, and project documentation under supervisionLeads design projects, creates detailed plans, and manages client interactions
Industry UsageEntry-level or supporting role in landscape design firms or construction projectsSenior role with licensing, often overseeing large-scale projects and teams

Assistant Landscape Designers typically hold related educational credentials and work under supervision, focusing on supporting design tasks. Landscape Architects have advanced degrees and licensure, enabling them to lead projects and make high-level design decisions. The roles differ mainly in responsibility, credentials, and scope of work, with Assistant Landscape Designers serving as support staff in the landscape architecture field.

Is assistant landscape designer hard to get into?

Becoming an assistant landscape designer can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education such as a degree or certification in landscape architecture or design, along with practical skills in CAD software and plant knowledge. Entry may also depend on experience, portfolio quality, and networking within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Landscape Designer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Assistant Landscape Designer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Landscape Designer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Landscape Designer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Assistant Landscape Designer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Assistant Landscape Designer job openings:

Assistant Landscape Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Landscape Designer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,290 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Assistant Landscape Designer

McHale & McHale Landscape Design, Inc.

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description:

About McHale Landscape Design

McHale Landscape Design is a single-source residential landscape design-build firm with a highly educated, experienced, passionate staff of designers, masons, carpenters, and landscape technicians. For 40 years, the focus has been the design, construction and maintenance of extraordinary residential gardens, pools, outdoor living areas, and home additions. McHale employs approximately 350 people, has five offices, including three design studios, and a 25-acre plant nursery across Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. McHale executes on the highest standard in design excellence and superior craftsmanship from design through installation to aftercare.


About the position

In this role, as an Assistant Landscape Designer, you will be part of both the design and implementation process of residential gardens, pools, outdoor living areas, porches, pavilions and pool houses. You will assist in all aspects of design, construction documentation and project administration services. Key tasks of the position will consist of site measurements, computer drafting, contractor coordination and general administrative assistance.

Essential Functions

  • Site work – field measurements, confirmation of plat drawings and elevations.
  • Drafting – preparation of base map, designs, as-builts, and construction details, including master plans and perspectives.
  • Site photography.
  • Using Sketch-up, Lumion and PowerPoint to create 3-D models and slideshows for sales presentations and utilizing Vectorworks or CAD-based software to develop construction documents for masonry and landscape crews.
  • Calculate plan take-offs, prepare cost estimates, and develop Budget Cost Analysis for various projects.
  • Collaborate with allied professionals and assist in the permit process.
  • Communication with clients during design and installation process.
  • Site layout for installation crews.
  • Development and proofing of contracts and client correspondence.
  • Coordination of subcontractors and management of subcontractor agreements for assigned projects.
  • Participate in design presentations and sales meetings with clients

Competencies:

  • Time Management/Organization skills
  • Perseverance/Determination
  • Reliability/Trustworthiness
  • Team oriented/Collaborative

Required Education and Experience

  • Landscape industry Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
  • 2 or more years of experience within the landscape industry.
  • Residential landscape experience preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

McHale Landscape Design is an equal opportunity employer. No applicant will face discrimination based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, parental status, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Requirements:


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