1

Landscape Architect Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Principal Landscape Architect

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

As part of our Urban Design, Planning & Landscape Architecture practice at HDR, you'll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the ...

New

If you LOVE working outdoors with minimum supervision, in a fast-moving, highly successful company, a Landscape Foreman position at A+ Lawn and Landscape may be for you. Our staff enjoys a fun, hard ...

Landscape Foreman The Green Thumbers is looking for an experienced landscape foreman to join our team. Full time position 40-50 hours a week. Must have experienced in all areas of landscape ...

Landscape Foreman The Green Thumbers is looking for an experienced landscape foreman to join our team. Full time position 40-50 hours a week. Must have experienced in all areas of landscape ...

The Green Thumbers is looking for an experienced landscape foreman to join our team. Full time position 40-50 hours a week * Must have experienced in all areas of landscape installation including but ...

THIS POSITION IS FOR A LANDSCAPE FIELD MANAGER IN CEDAR FALLS IOWA Royal Turf is an equal opportunity company which has been providing high quality lawn, landscape, and snow services to the Cedar ...

Downing is seeking a Site Designer with a background in civil engineering and/or landscape architecture to support our design-build projects. This is a hands-on role that works closely with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Landscape Architect information

See Iowa salary details

$37.6K

$78.1K

$121.2K

How much do landscape architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for landscape architect in Iowa is $78,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,800.00 and $89,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a landscape architect?

Landscape architects design and maintain a variety of outdoor spaces, from private gardens to public parks. Natural scenery often defines the overall look of a neighborhood; landscape architects increase the appeal of these outdoor areas while respecting the native flora. Homeowners may hire landscape architects to improve their home’s curb appeal and install water-friendly plants and groundcover. Commercial centers utilize landscape architects to add greenery and other outdoor scenery to their buildings and resorts. Landscape architects also work on large-scale public projects, such as parks and trails, university campuses, and new housing communities. They work closely with city planners, civil engineers, and others involved in these massive plans to ensure their designs fit with the overall development of the area.

What is a landscape architect?

Landscape architects are professionals who design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, campuses, and public areas to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They combine knowledge of art, science, and the environment to plan and create sustainable and attractive landscapes. Their work involves site analysis, planning, design, and project management, often collaborating with architects, engineers, and environmental scientists. Landscape architects also consider factors like climate, topography, and existing vegetation in their designs.

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

To thrive as a Landscape Architect, you need expertise in design principles, site analysis, horticulture, and typically a degree in landscape architecture along with licensure. Proficiency with CAD software, GIS systems, and rendering tools is essential for creating and presenting design plans. Strong communication, creativity, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, engineers, and contractors. These skills are crucial for delivering functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by landscape architects when working on large-scale public projects?

Landscape architects working on large-scale public projects often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse stakeholder interests, adhering to strict budgets and timelines, and navigating complex regulatory requirements. Collaborating with urban planners, civil engineers, and community representatives is crucial to address environmental concerns, accessibility, and sustainability goals. Effective communication and project management skills are essential to ensure that design visions are realized while meeting project constraints and community needs.

What is the difference between Landscape Architect vs Landscape Designer?

AspectLandscape ArchitectLandscape Designer
CredentialsLicensing required in many states, degree in landscape architectureTypically no licensing, degree in landscape design or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic projects, large-scale planning, regulatory approvalPrivate gardens, residential and commercial projects
Industry UsageArchitectural firms, government agencies, urban planningDesign firms, independent consultants, residential clients

While both roles involve creating outdoor spaces, Landscape Architects often require licensing and work on larger, public projects, whereas Landscape Designers focus on aesthetic residential or commercial landscapes without licensing requirements.

Is a landscape architect a good career?

A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces, combining creativity with technical skills in areas like ecology, architecture, and design. The profession offers opportunities in various settings such as urban planning, parks, and private estates, often requiring licensure and proficiency with design software. Job prospects depend on regional demand and experience levels, with a typical work schedule involving project deadlines and site visits.

Is it hard to find a job as a landscape architect?

Finding a job as a landscape architect can be competitive, especially for entry-level positions, but demand for professionals with strong design skills, knowledge of CAD software, and environmental understanding remains steady. Building a strong portfolio and gaining relevant experience can improve employment prospects in this field.

Is there a high demand for landscape architects?

The demand for landscape architects is expected to grow steadily due to increased focus on sustainable design, urban development, and environmental restoration. Employment opportunities are often influenced by regional infrastructure projects, public and private sector investments, and the ability to use design software like AutoCAD and GIS. Overall, job prospects are favorable for qualified professionals in the field.

What does a landscape architect actually do?

A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and commercial areas, combining creativity with knowledge of ecology, architecture, and engineering. They create plans, drawings, and specifications, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and may oversee project implementation to ensure designs are built according to their plans.

What are the most commonly searched types of Landscape Architect jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Landscape Architect jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Landscape Architect jobs in Iowa?

For Landscape Architect jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Landscape Architect jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Landscape Architect job openings:

Infographic showing various Landscape Architect job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,079 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Principal Landscape Architect

Des Moines, IA • On-site


HDR
Specialized Design Services • 5 - 10K employees

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$67K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. 

We believe architecture is more than designing buildings, it's about providing solutions to societal challenges and creating stronger, more vibrant communities. As part of our Urban Design, Planning & Landscape Architecture practice at HDR, you'll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the world. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks and infrastructure, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world around them. We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. From championing design excellence with an emphasis on resilience and sustainability to pioneering innovative building technologies, your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the built environment. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to drive meaningful change and help define the future of our communities

Position Description
The Principal Landscape Architect works with a diverse range of clients and design partners to create vibrant places ranging from urban parks, plazas and streetscapes within a variety of market sectors, including civic, health, science and technology, education, and transit / transportation. The successful candidate will augment and collaborate with a growing team of designers in the following capacity:

In the role of Principal Landscape Architect, we'll count on you to: 

  • Advocate for design excellence in every project. Lead and develop site and public realm design through all phases of projects, from master planning and concept development through construction documentation and construction observation
  • Lead and support development of strong client relationships; engage in business development and marketing efforts to win work
  • Lead the pursuits of site-design-focused projects; develop the project proposal including scope, schedule and fee; lead and manage project through all phases
  • Mentor early career professionals and others to further their growth in design and implementation, client management, and their influence in the design culture within the studio
  • Create and direct others to develop illustrative concept drawings using 3D and 2D digital illustration tools, free hand drawing, and digital color renderings
  • Lead zoning and site plan approvals, public engagement, design charrettes, development programming, design review and implementation
  • Coordinate workload to ensure deadlines are met, reviewing documents for areas of conflict with other disciplines, writing and editing site design specifications
  • Collaborate with urban designers, landscape architects, architects, planners, engineers and other disciplines on commercial and institutionally scaled planning and design projects
  • Provide excellent communication, time management, graphic and organizational skills
  • Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications 

  • A minimum of 15 years experience working as a landscape architect
  • Professional Landscape Architect licensed in Iowa and Nebraska
  • Master's degree in Urban Design, Landscape Architecture or related field
  • Experience and passion for sustainable and/or regenerative design
  • Experience with the full range of planning and design phases including site analysis, community and site planning, conceptual development, construction documentation and observation
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary design teams
  • Significant experience leading a design team through construction document preparation, with attention to design quality and technical detailing 
  • Proven initiative and experience developing client relationships, including pursuit strategy and proposal content
  • Experience identifying, attracting and maintaining key staff. Capable of strategically growing and retaining a team with strong talent. 
  • Professional and community involvement: engaged in key industry and community organizations such as ASLA, APA, AIA, ULI and others that may be relevant locally
  • Excellent communication, time management, graphic and organizational skills
  • Experience with AutoCAD / Civil 3D, Land F/X, and Adobe Creative Suite
  • Experience directing others to apply digital rendering and production tools, including Revit + Environment, Rhino, Lumion, VRAY, Enscape, Twinmotion, etc. 
  • Willingness to travel for project work and internal collaboration with the HDR urban design, planning and landscape architecture practice

Interested candidates should respond with job application, resume and portfolio of recent work samples (via web-based link). 

*LI-BC1
 

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in related field or an equivalent combination of education and related professional experience
  • 15 years related experience
  • A minimum of 7 years project management experience
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office, estimating and scheduling software, project management software
  • Must have the ability to interact with various design teams, have excellent organizational, project management and communication (both written and verbal) skills
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


HDR logo

About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917


What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom