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Landscape Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Master's degree in landscape architecture or urban design may also be required. * LEED credential required within 12 months of employment. OTHER: * Travel may be required * Overtime may be required

Join our World Class Team of Design Professionals as a Residential Landscape Designer - Craft High-end Outdoor Living Spaces in Lake Tahoe! Are you passionate about designing exceptional landscapes ...

Salary: $25.00 - $40.00 DOE Join our World Class Team of Design Professionals as a Residential Landscape Designer - Craft High-end Outdoor Living Spaces in Lake Tahoe! Are you passionate about ...

Landscape Designer

Kings Beach, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Join our World Class Team of Design Professionals as a Residential Landscape Designer - Craft High-end Outdoor Living Spaces in Lake Tahoe! Are you passionate about designing exceptional landscapes ...

We believe design is an act of optimism through which invention and ideas change the world. We practice interconnected design across architecture, placemaking, and landscape architecture to define ...

Be Seen First

Miller Landscape Architecture Landscape Architectural Designer Full-Time or Part-Time · Hybrid ... We design for life. Your life. Your place. Our climate. Why This Role Is Different This isn't a cog ...

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Showing results 1-20

Landscape Design information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$64.6K

$105.1K

How much do landscape design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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.

What are some common challenges faced by landscape designers when working on client projects?

Landscape designers often encounter challenges such as balancing client expectations with site limitations, adhering to local regulations, and ensuring sustainable practices. Managing project timelines and coordinating with contractors, architects, and horticulturists are also key aspects that require strong communication and organizational skills. Adapting designs to changing budgets or environmental conditions is common, so flexibility and creative problem-solving are essential in this role.

What is the difference between Landscape Design vs Landscape Architecture?

AspectLandscape DesignLandscape Architecture
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in landscape design or related field; certification may include landscape design certificatesRequires a professional license (e.g., Landscape Architect license), often a degree in landscape architecture
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client sites, outdoor spacesDesign offices, construction sites, urban planning projects
Industry UsageUsed by residential, commercial, and public projects for aesthetic and functional outdoor spacesInvolved in large-scale projects, including parks, urban planning, and environmental restoration

While both roles focus on outdoor spaces, Landscape Design primarily emphasizes aesthetic and functional aspects for clients, often on smaller projects. Landscape Architecture involves comprehensive planning, technical design, and regulatory considerations for larger, complex projects. Both professions require a strong understanding of design principles, but Landscape Architects have additional licensing and technical responsibilities.

How can I get into landscape design?

To pursue a career in landscape design, gaining a relevant education such as a degree in landscape architecture, horticulture, or environmental design is helpful. Developing skills in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions, and obtaining certifications such as the Landscape Industry Certified Technician can improve job prospects.

What landscape job pays the most?

Senior landscape architects and landscape design managers typically earn the highest salaries in the field, often exceeding $80,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, strong design skills, and often a professional license or certification. High-paying positions are usually found in large firms or in regions with a high cost of living.

What is landscape design?

Landscape design is the art and practice of planning and arranging outdoor spaces such as gardens, parks, and yards to achieve aesthetic, functional, and environmental goals. It involves selecting and organizing plants, hardscapes, water features, and other elements to create harmonious and sustainable environments. Landscape designers consider factors like climate, soil, site conditions, and client preferences to develop practical and visually pleasing layouts.

What do you do as a landscape designer?

A landscape designer creates plans for outdoor spaces, including gardens, parks, and commercial landscapes, by selecting plants, materials, and features to enhance aesthetics and functionality. They often use design software and collaborate with clients, contractors, and architects to implement their plans. The role may require knowledge of horticulture, design principles, and local regulations.

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, often requiring skills in design software and knowledge of horticulture. Job prospects are generally favorable for those with relevant certifications and experience.

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

To thrive as a Landscape Designer, you need a solid foundation in horticulture, site planning, and design principles, often supported by a degree in landscape architecture or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software, GIS mapping tools, and graphic design programs is typically required, along with knowledge of local environmental regulations. Creativity, strong communication, and project management skills set outstanding designers apart, enabling effective collaboration and client satisfaction. These skills are crucial for producing functional, sustainable, and visually appealing outdoor spaces that meet both client needs and ecological considerations.
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 job categories do people searching Landscape Design jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Landscape Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Landscape Design jobs? Cities in California with the most Landscape Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Landscape Design job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,567 per year, or $31 per hour.
Landscape Design Professional

Landscape Design Professional

HOK

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people's lives, serving our clients and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.
Responsible for working with the project team to assist overall effort of completing various project phases with direct supervision.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Works on a full range of assignments in supporting the delivery of all project phases and construction administration
  • Works to gain experience in comprehensive preparation of master plan reports, construction documentation and the construction process.
  • Develops solutions to technical and design problems following established standards.
  • Incorporates Integrated Sustainable Design solutions into projects.
  • Displays ability to grasp design concepts and express graphically.
  • Builds models for client/project team review.
  • Compiles data and performs elementary design computations.
  • Performs benchmarking research on programming, comparable projects and images.
  • Assures HOK document standards are met and archives documents appropriately.
  • May assist team in construction administration document management.
  • Displays beginning level understanding of HOK design process, marketing process and supports interview and proposal preparation.
  • Displays beginning level understanding of Agreements to work within budget, schedule, work plan and client constraints.
  • Actively promotes collaborative and innovative culture.
  • Fosters a commitment to external and internal client service.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's degree in landscape architecture or architecture plus 0 to 3 years' experience; or equivalent in appropriate education and experience required. Master's degree in landscape architecture or urban design may also be required.
  • LEED credential required within 12 months of employment.

OTHER:
  • Travel may be required
  • Overtime may be required
  • The job duties and requirements that this document describes may be altered or supplemented at any time at the sole discretion of HOK.

Many of our roles require the use of specific software. Please refer to the Preferred and Recommended Software Skills for details.
HOK is committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive benefits plan to meet their current and future needs. Benefits include medical, dental and vision coverage; 401(K) savings plans; disability, life and accident insurance; paid time off (PTO); and parental leave. In addition, HOK employees enjoy a flexible work schedule with the option to work from home on Mondays and Fridays.
HOK is an EOE, including disability/vets.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, education and location. The reasonably expected annual salary range for this position is $65,000 to $75,000.
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