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Junior Design Project Manager

Location: Tempe, AZ

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Director of Design

Location Requirement: Candidates must either reside in the Phoenix metropolitan area or be willing to relocate prior to their start date. This is a full-time, in-office position and is not eligible for remote work.

Position Summary

Refined Gardens is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Junior Design Project Manager to support the successful delivery of luxury residential landscape design and construction projects.

This position serves as a critical support role within the Design Department, assisting Project Managers through every phase of a project, from initial client meetings and concept development through construction completion. The ideal candidate possesses strong organizational skills, a passion for landscape design, excellent communication abilities, and a desire to grow into a full Project Management role.

The Junior Design Project Manager works closely with clients, architects, builders, consultants, vendors, and internal teams to help ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and to Refined Gardens' quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Project Planning & Client Coordination

• Attend client meetings alongside Project Managers and assist in gathering project information, goals, and preferences.
• Serve as the primary note-taker during client meetings and distribute meeting summaries internally and externally.
• Conduct site assessments and document existing conditions, opportunities, and site constraints.
• Compile and organize architectural, civil, and survey information for project use.
• Prepare and maintain accurate project files and documentation.

Landscape Design Support

• Assist Project Managers and the Director of Design in developing creative landscape concepts for high-end residential properties.
• Prepare presentation materials including:
  • Concept plans
  • Hand-rendered plans
  • Material boards
  • Plant palettes
  • Inspiration imagery
  • Client presentation packages
• Set up and prepare conference rooms and materials for client presentations.
• Assist with revisions and implementation of design comments from Project Managers and clients.
• Produce and maintain plant imagery boards, materials boards, and design details.

Construction Documentation

• Prepare base plans using site measurements, surveys, architectural plans, and civil drawings.
• Coordinate with drafting staff to produce construction document packages.
• Assist with development of:
  • Planting plans
  • Hardscape plans
  • Irrigation layouts
  • Lighting plans
  • Construction details
• Review plans for accuracy and completeness before issuance.

Estimating & Proposal Support

• Collaborate with Estimating and Project Management teams to assemble project budgets and cost estimates.
• Assist in gathering vendor pricing and material information.
• Prepare proposal presentation materials, construction document sets, and supporting project documentation.
• Support Project Managers during client proposal presentations.

Assistant Project Management

• Assist Project Managers in developing project schedules, timelines, and resource plans.
• Help coordinate permitting and approval processes with local jurisdictions.
• Assist with procurement activities, including plant tagging, material selection, and vendor coordination.
• Maintain project records, submittals, and project correspondence.

Client Communication

• Maintain professional and timely communication with clients, consultants, vendors, and internal team members.
• Respond to emails and communications within established company standards.
• Support Project Managers in resolving client questions and requests.
• Help foster strong client relationships throughout the design and construction process.

Quality Control

• Participate in site visits and project inspections during construction.
• Identify potential quality concerns and communicate observations to Project Managers.
• Assist in documenting project progress and completion milestones.
• Help ensure installations align with approved plans and company standards.

Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with designers, estimators, purchasers, construction managers, accounting personnel, and administrative staff.
• Coordinate effectively with architects, engineers, interior designers, builders, and specialty consultants.
• Contribute to a positive, team-oriented culture focused on craftsmanship, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Stay current on industry trends, materials, technologies, and best practices in landscape design and construction.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture, Landscape Design, Horticulture, Construction Management, or a related field; or equivalent industry experience.
• 1-2 years minimum experience in landscape design.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Professional appearance and demeanor suitable for high-end residential clientele.

Preferred

• Experience in landscape design, landscape construction, architecture, or related industries.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Land F/X, SketchUp, Photoshop, or similar design software.
• Knowledge of Southwest plant materials and landscape construction practices.
• Understanding of irrigation systems, hardscape construction, and landscape detailing.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to conduct field site visits and walk active construction sites.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds periodically.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

What Success Looks Like

• Accurate and organized project documentation.
• Timely completion of assigned design and project support tasks.
• Effective communication with clients and team members.
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• Continuous development toward independent project management responsibilities.
• Consistent contribution to exceptional client experiences and successful project outcomes.