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Entry Level Landscape Designer Jobs in California

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 ...

theLender

Be Seen First

Inside Account Executive

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$3.9K - $10K/mo

This is an entry-level opportunity designed for people who want to build a long-term career in ... landscape of Wholesale mortgage - one partnership, one loan, and one day at a time.

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

Entry Level Landscape Designer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$64.6K

$105.1K

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

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level landscape designer 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.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level landscape designers in their first year?

In your first year as an Entry Level Landscape Designer, you may encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with practical site constraints and client budgets. Learning to interpret and prepare detailed technical drawings, as well as adapting to changing project requirements, can be demanding but vital for your professional development. Collaborating with senior designers, engineers, and contractors often involves managing multiple deadlines and clear communication. However, these experiences quickly build your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and confidence, which are key to success and future advancement in the field.

How to get started as a landscape designer?

To start as an entry-level landscape designer, obtain a relevant degree such as landscape architecture or horticulture, and develop skills in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. Gaining experience through internships or assistant roles helps build a portfolio and understanding of site planning, plant selection, and environmental considerations.

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

Entry Level Landscape Designers need a foundational understanding of landscape architecture principles, basic design skills, and a degree or coursework in landscape design or a related field. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is usually required, and some employers may value knowledge of regional horticulture or sustainable design certifications. Strong communication, teamwork, and time management skills help candidates collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients. These skills ensure projects are completed efficiently, designs meet client needs, and career growth potential is maximized.

Is landscape design hard to get into?

Entry level landscape design can be competitive, but gaining skills in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects. Many positions value a combination of education, creativity, and practical experience, often gained through internships or apprenticeships.

What does an Entry Level Landscape Designer do?

An Entry Level Landscape Designer assists in designing outdoor spaces by creating plans, selecting materials, and supporting senior designers. They use software like AutoCAD and SketchUp to draft designs and may conduct site visits to assess project needs. Their role includes collaborating with clients, engineers, and contractors to ensure projects meet aesthetic and functional goals. This position serves as an introduction to landscape architecture, helping designers gain experience and develop their skills in the industry.

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.

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 architects rely on creativity, environmental understanding, and client collaboration, skills that are difficult for AI to replicate. Human expertise remains essential for complex, site-specific projects and sustainable design solutions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Landscape Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Landscape Designer jobs in California are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Landscape Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Landscape Designer job openings:
Entry Level Landscape Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Landscape Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 81% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% 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 • On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 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.

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