ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Landscape Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RIOS

Landscape Designer II

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The Designer II role is responsible for contributing to project success through increasingly ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Landscape Architecture or equivalent professional experience. * 3+ ...

SWA Group

Mid-level Landscape Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

We're looking for a Landscape Architect with a strength in (or a desire to learn) the technical ... Committed to seeing your designs built with excellence. * Interested in planting and knows a bit ...

RCH

Project Designer- Landscape

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$83K - $105K/yr

The Landscape Project Designer role is responsible for leading project design and delivery efforts with a high degree of independence, accountability, and technical expertise. Project Designers serve ...

Rios Inc

Project Designer- Landscape

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

The Landscape Project Designer role is responsible for leading project design and delivery efforts with a high degree of independence, accountability, and technical expertise. Project Designers serve ...

RIOS

Project Designer- Landscape

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The Landscape Project Designer role is responsible for leading project design and delivery efforts with a high degree of independence, accountability, and technical expertise. Project Designers serve ...

TekSky

Landscape Architect/Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Our Landscape and Planning design studio is a close-knit group of professionals dedicated to working together on a large variety of projects. We are passionate about urban design, which significantly ...

HOK

Landscape Design Professional

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical ... Bachelor's degree in landscape architecture or architecture plus 0 to 3 years' experience; or ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsLandscape Designer JobsLandscape Designer Jobs in California

Landscape Designer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$64.6K

$105.1K

How much do landscape designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 does a landscape designer do?

Landscape designers use garden plants, trees, grasses, and hardscape materials to create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. They are responsible for making sure the design suits the requirements of the area, such as privacy, rainwater runoff, aesthetics, and habitats for animals. They typically work on yard design for individual homeowners.

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 strong background in landscape architecture or design, plant science, and spatial planning, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and GIS systems is typically required for creating detailed plans and presentations. Creativity, client communication, and project management are crucial soft skills for effectively translating client visions into functional outdoor spaces. These abilities ensure innovative, sustainable solutions that meet client needs while navigating environmental and technical challenges.

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

Landscape Designers often navigate challenges such as balancing client desires with site limitations, budget constraints, and environmental considerations. Collaborating with architects, contractors, and horticulturists requires strong communication skills to ensure the design vision is maintained throughout implementation. Additionally, managing multiple projects simultaneously and adapting to changing client needs can be demanding but also rewarding for those who enjoy creative problem-solving and teamwork.

What is the difference between Landscape Designer vs Landscape Architect?

AspectLandscape DesignerLandscape Architect
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in landscape design or related field; certification variesRequires a professional license, often a degree in landscape architecture, and passing the licensing exam
Work EnvironmentDesigns outdoor spaces for residential, commercial, and public projects; often works with clients directlyDesigns large-scale projects like parks, campuses, and urban spaces; may oversee construction and compliance
Industry UsageCommonly employed in residential and small commercial projectsWorks on complex, large-scale projects often involving public agencies and municipalities

While both roles focus on outdoor space design, landscape architects typically handle larger, more complex projects requiring licensure, whereas landscape designers focus on smaller-scale, client-driven designs without mandatory licensing.

How much do landscape designers make in the US?

The median annual salary for landscape designers in the US is around $50,000, with salaries typically ranging from $35,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced designers or those working in high-cost areas can earn higher wages, and proficiency with design software like AutoCAD can enhance earning potential.

Is a landscape designer a good career?

A landscape designer is a professional who plans and creates outdoor spaces, combining artistic design with environmental considerations. The career offers opportunities in design, project management, and client interaction, often requiring knowledge of horticulture, design software, and certification. Job prospects depend on regional demand and experience levels, with potential for freelance work or employment with landscape firms.

What degree do I need to be a landscape designer?

A landscape designer typically benefits from a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, landscape design, horticulture, or a related field. Formal education provides knowledge of design principles, plant materials, and environmental considerations, and some states may require licensing or certification for certain projects.
More about Landscape Designer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Landscape Designer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Landscape Designer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Landscape Designer jobs in California?

For Landscape Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Landscape Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Landscape Designer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Landscape Designer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Landscape Designer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Landscape Designer jobs in CA?

For Landscape Designer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Landscape Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Landscape Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,567 per year, or $31 per hour.

Landscape Designer (3-5 years)

San Rafael, CA • On-site

VITA Planning & Landscape Architecture
Architectural Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about VITA Planning & Landscape Architectureexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Landscape Architect / Designer (3-5 years)

San Rafael, CA

VITAPlanning and Landscape Architecture, Inc. is located north of San Francisco in Marin County and consists of a core group of planners, landscape architects, and architects. The focus of our practice is planning and landscape design for large-scale, high-end recreation communities, urban mixed-use, hotel, and resort development. We find that most of our projects are "special situations" where a new market opportunity, a sensitive environment, a historic context or a complex approvals process requires an innovative approach. We have completed projects in many regions of the United States as well as the Caribbean, Hawai'i, Asia, Central and South America, and throughout the Pacific Rim.

VITAis a studio of planners, architects, and landscape architects dedicated to respectfully merging the built environment with the natural setting through thoughtful, collaborative design. Inherent in our design process are knowledge and respect for local and regional cultures and history, the natural setting, and the business objectives of our clients. This understanding of the land and its inhabitants is the foundation of our work and provides cultural connections to place.

Position Role & Responsibilities

Working with us in this role, you may be responsible for:

  • Design (design studies, sketches, and conceptual studies using hand drawing and digital media)
  • 3D modeling
  • Producing presentation graphics and presentations
  • Assisting in the preparation of construction drawings/documents, sets (grading plans, planting plans, layout plans, technical details, and specifications)
  • Assist in the development of site development plans submitted for development approval in conformance with plans, specifications, and ordinances
  • Compiling and analyzing data on site conditions
  • Assist in the preparation of cost estimates, technical reports, and memos
  • Attending and participating in meetings (incl. oral presentations, interaction with clients, consultant teams, and travel)
  • Work with senior designers and principals on a collaborative team from conceptual design through construction documentation

Requirements

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

Candidate Qualifications:

  • 3-5 years of professional experience in a landscape architecture office
  • Strong design skills
  • Strong problem solving, critical thinking skills, analysis
  • Attention to detail and organization
  • Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Effective time management skills
  • Leadership qualities and ability to take initiative; self-motivation
  • Ability to take direction
  • Positive attitude
  • Sense of accountability
  • Ability and willingness to travel (subject to Covid conditions)
  • Project management/project coordination experience
  • Experience with schematic design, design development, and construction documents
  • Demonstrated the ability to successfully work directly with clients and other consultants
  • Demonstrated the ability to successfully direct the work of junior staff and train entry level designers
  • Technical understanding of landscape architecture site development elements
  • Licensure as a landscape architect, planner, or architect, or is in the process of becoming licensed (is considered a bonus)
  • Understanding of when support is needed from senior staff and the ability to execute and integrate direction/input provided.
  • Ability to teach the efficient use of CAD and Adobe Suite to junior staff
  • Ability to direct (with the support of senior staff) the preparation of conceptual and schematic deliverables as well as construction documents, including grading, drainage, lighting, planting, and construction details.


Proficiency in:

  • AutoCAD 2014+
  • Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, esp.)
  • Microsoft Office
  • 3D modeling
  • Google Earth Pro
  • Hand sketching
  • Lumion
  • Revit
  • ArcMap/ ArcGIS
  • Bluebeam Revu


Apply

  • Portfolio (PDF, 15MB max.)
  • Resume/CV (word or PDF)
  • Contact info for 2-3 references
  • Email or cover letter

Apply