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Entry Level Landscape Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ... in architecture, urban design, planning or landscape architecture. * You are proficient with ...

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All JobsLandscape Design JobsEntry Level Landscape Design JobsEntry Level Landscape Design Jobs in California

Entry Level Landscape Design information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$64.6K

$105.1K

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

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level landscape design in California is $64,567.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace landscape architect?

AI technology can assist landscape architects by automating tasks like site analysis and design visualization, but it is unlikely to fully replace the profession. Landscape architecture requires creativity, environmental understanding, and client interaction that currently depend on human expertise and judgment. Professionals in this field will need to adapt by integrating new tools and developing skills in digital design and software.

How to get started as a landscape designer?

To start as a landscape designer, gain relevant education such as a degree or certificate in landscape architecture, horticulture, or related fields. Develop skills in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, build a portfolio of your work, and seek entry-level positions or internships to gain practical experience in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Landscape Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Landscape Designer, you need a background in landscape architecture, horticulture, or a related field, along with basic design and drafting skills. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required, and internships or entry-level certifications can be advantageous. Creativity, attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to collaborate with clients and team members are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure you can effectively contribute to project planning, create appealing outdoor spaces, and meet client needs in a competitive industry.

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

AspectEntry Level Landscape DesignLandscape Architect
CredentialsAssociate degree or related certificationBachelor's or master's degree in landscape architecture, licensure required
Work EnvironmentAssisting with design plans, site analysis, and client communicationLeading projects, designing large-scale landscapes, managing teams
Industry UsageEntry-level positions in landscape design firms or related rolesProfessional licensed practitioners in architecture firms or independent practices

Entry Level Landscape Design roles typically require foundational education and focus on assisting senior designers with project tasks. Landscape Architects hold advanced degrees, licensure, and oversee entire projects. While both work in landscape planning, the main differences lie in credentials, responsibilities, and project scope.

Is landscape design hard to get into?

Entry level landscape design positions typically require basic knowledge of design principles, outdoor environments, and tools like AutoCAD or SketchUp. While some employers prefer candidates with related education or certifications, the field often values practical skills and a portfolio, making it accessible for those willing to learn and gain experience through internships or entry-level roles.

Is there a demand for landscape designers?

Landscape designers are in steady demand as they help create sustainable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as environmental awareness increases and urban development continues, requiring skills in design software and knowledge of horticulture.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level landscape designers, and how can they best navigate them?

Entry-level landscape designers often encounter challenges such as balancing creative ideas with client expectations and budget constraints, learning to use industry-standard design software, and effectively collaborating with more experienced team members. To navigate these challenges, it's helpful to seek feedback regularly, stay organized with project documentation, and actively participate in site visits to gain practical experience. Building strong communication skills and being open to mentorship can also help new designers grow and adapt quickly in a collaborative environment.

What does an entry level landscape designer do?

An entry level landscape designer assists with creating and implementing plans for outdoor spaces such as gardens, parks, and residential yards. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced designers, helping with site analysis, drafting design layouts, selecting plants and materials, and sometimes visiting project sites. Entry level designers may use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create visual representations and often communicate ideas to clients or team members. This role is a great way to gain practical experience and learn industry standards while developing creative and technical skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Landscape Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Landscape Design jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Landscape Design jobs in California? For Entry Level Landscape Design jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Landscape Design jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Landscape Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Landscape Design jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Landscape Design job openings:
Entry Level Landscape Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Landscape Design job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,567 per year, or $31 per hour.
Entry-Level Landscape Designer (1-3 years)

Entry-Level Landscape Designer (1-3 years)

SWA Group

Sausalito, CA

$62K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

SWA Sausalito is seeking talented, design-oriented candidates with 1 to 3 years of professional experience in landscape architecture, architecture, urban design, or planning fields, and a passion for graphic representation.

If selected to join our studio, you will work as part of a team on a variety of project types and scales - some local, others international - all demanding engagement with the topics of resilience, cultural diversity, and designed ecologies. Our goal is to give you the resources you need to grow your design, technical, and communication skills to become an invaluable member of our talented team. We expect that you will bring a sense of curiosity, creativity, and innovative thinking paired with a willingness to "jump in" and be an enthusiastic participant in developing technical documents and communicating complex design ideas. Computer graphic fluency required for this position includes: 3D modeling and rendering, illustrative graphics development, analytical diagramming, presentation formatting and graphic layout. Demonstrated experience with technical documentation, as well as verbal and written communications skills are essential.

This is a full-time in-person position in the Sausalito studio with no remote option.

Key tasks associated with this position include:

  • Design communication graphics production
  • 3D modeling
  • Plan and perspective rendering
  • Assisting in the development of crafted design elements, planting design and the preparation of construction drawings
  • Attending and participating in meetings
  • Work with senior designers on a collaborative team

Requirements:

  • A professional undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited program in landscape architecture or related field.

The ideal candidate has:

  • 1-3 years professional experience in a design office
  • Strong design skills
  • Strong graphics and 3D modeling skills
  • Strong problem solving, critical thinking skills, analysis
  • Attention to detail and organization
  • Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Effective time management skills
  • Self-motivated & able to take initiative
  • Ability to take direction and work within a team
  • Positive attitude
  • Sense of accountability
  • Technical understanding of landscape architecture site development elements
  • Basic knowledge of plant materials

Candidates should upload/include a resume, cover letter, and portfolio to be considered. No phone calls please.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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