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Entry Level Landscape Architect Jobs in Riverside, CA

PlaceWorks

Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$27.88 - $41.83/hr

Job Title Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner Location Santa Ana, CA - US (Primary) Category Urban ... landscape architecture. * You are proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and ...

All JobsLandscape Architect JobsEntry Level Landscape Architect JobsEntry Level Landscape Architect Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Landscape Architect information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$41.7K

$86.7K

$134.6K

How much do entry level landscape architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level landscape architect in Riverside, CA is $86,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $99,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for entry level landscape architects?

Entry level landscape architects are in steady demand as urban development, environmental restoration, and sustainable design projects grow. Employers seek candidates with proficiency in design software like AutoCAD and strong knowledge of environmental regulations, making entry-level positions accessible for recent graduates with relevant skills and internships.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level landscape architects in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level landscape architects often find it challenging to balance creative design aspirations with practical constraints such as budgets, site conditions, and client requirements. Additionally, adapting to fast-paced project timelines and learning to use industry-standard design software can be demanding. To overcome these challenges, new professionals should seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, proactively ask questions, and take advantage of training opportunities provided by their firm. Collaborating closely with team members and actively participating in project meetings will also help build confidence and practical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level landscape architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Landscape Architect, you need a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, foundational design skills, and knowledge of site analysis and environmental planning. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as understanding of local zoning codes, is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and teamwork skills help you collaborate with clients, engineers, and contractors effectively. These competencies enable you to contribute innovative, sustainable, and practical landscape solutions that meet both client needs and regulatory standards.

What is an entry level landscape architect?

An entry level landscape architect is a professional who has recently graduated with a degree in landscape architecture and is beginning their career in the field. They typically assist senior landscape architects in designing outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and urban areas by preparing drawings, conducting site analysis, and helping with project planning. Entry level landscape architects may also work on environmental impact assessments and collaborate with other design and construction professionals. Their work helps to create functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environments while gaining experience to progress in their careers.

What is the difference between Entry Level Landscape Architect vs Landscape Designer?

AspectEntry Level Landscape ArchitectLandscape Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in landscape architecture, licensure not required for entry levelTypically a degree in landscape design or related field; licensure not required
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, government agencies, architecture firmsPrivate design firms, freelance, residential projects
Industry UsageCommonly used in professional, public, and large-scale projectsOften used in residential, small-scale, and aesthetic-focused projects

Entry Level Landscape Architects and Landscape Designers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, landscape architects typically pursue licensure and work on larger, more complex projects, while landscape designers focus on aesthetic and residential landscapes without requiring licensure. Both roles are essential in the landscape industry, but they differ in scope and professional credentials.

How hard is it to become an entry level landscape architect?

Becoming an entry level landscape architect typically requires a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture or a related field, along with gaining relevant internship experience. Licensing or certification may be required in some regions, which involves passing the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE). Entry-level positions often focus on developing skills in design software, site analysis, and environmental planning.

Can you be an entry level landscape architect without a degree?

Entry level landscape architects typically need a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture or a related field to qualify for most entry-level positions. Some employers may consider candidates with relevant experience, technical skills, or certifications like the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE), but a degree is generally required to meet licensing and professional standards.
More about Entry Level Landscape Architect jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Landscape Architect jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Landscape Architect jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Landscape Architect jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Landscape Architect jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Landscape Architect jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Landscape Architect jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Landscape Architect jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Landscape Architect job openings:
Entry Level Landscape Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Landscape Architect job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,724 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner

PlaceWorks

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$27.88 - $41.83/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Title
Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner
Location
Santa Ana, CA - US (Primary)
Category
Urban Design
Job Type
Full-time Non-exempt
Career Level
Entry Level
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Travel
Job Description
Job Description:
PlaceWorks is seeking a full-time Urban Designer/Planner to join our team in the Orange County (Santa Ana) office. We are looking for an entry-level individual or someone with a few years of urban design or planning experience within urban or urbanizing settings for public-sector and/or private-sector clients. Relevant experience includes familiarity with site planning and urban design for areas such as, but not limited to, development along corridors, within downtowns, near transit, and other areas in transition. Experience with planning documents such as specific plans, general plans, and master plans are a plus.
Working in a collaborative and casual work environment under the guidance of principals, project managers and other senior staff, this designer/planner would work on a variety of design-related projects, providing support to both our Southern and Northern California offices and working with team members across the state. Our firm is deeply involved throughout California in the acceleration of housing development and the revitalization of our built-out communities.
The pay range for this position is $27.88 - $41.83 per hour, dependent upon experience and other relevant factors.
Job Requirements:
You may be a great fit if some of the following describe you:
  • You love planning for the future of communities and making a difference with your work.
  • You want to learn more about urban building/development types, including commercial, mixed-use, and residential in an infill setting.
  • You are adept at collecting background documents, researching and summarizing information for existing conditions analysis.
  • With guidance, you can write and/or illustrate design standards and guidelines; how-to-guides and/or toolkits for both residential and non-residential development; and design-based zoning standards for specific plans or focused municipal code revisions.
  • You have some experience with opportunities/constraints mapping, site planning, and urban design framework plans.
  • With guidance, you can support preparation of build-out scenarios to test and illustrate draft standards/codes.
  • You're able to travel to and perform site visits as a project requires and attend client meetings with the project team.
  • Supporting authentic engagement with diverse communities excites you and you're willing to jump in to help with/participate in public outreach efforts, including evening, weekend, and multi-day design charrettes. You may be asked to coordinate events or meetings, prepare and assemble materials/supplies for workshops.
  • You're interested in assisting with and actively participating in marketing, business development, and proposal efforts to support our design team.
  • You can work both independently and in a highly collaborative environment with team members across the state.
  • You have a bachelor's degree or master's degree in architecture, urban design, planning or landscape architecture.
  • You are proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint), Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp. Proficiency with AutoCAD, Rhino and/or ArcGIS is desired, but not required. Hand drawing is a plus.
  • You have a reliable means of transportation to and from work, and to perform site visits and attend meetings when needed.
  • You can be in the office at least two days a week.

Application Instructions:
When applying, attach your cover letter, resume, and design portfolio as three (3) separate PDF attachments (may include written and design work for school projects). Each attachment must be under 500KB. Alternatively, you may include a link to your design portfolio if it exceeds 500KB.
Job Requirements
(see above job description)
We are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law.

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