1

Landscape Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Landscape Designer II

Solana Beach, CA ยท Hybrid

$75K - $85K/yr

Landscape Designer II Location: San Diego, CA Who We Are: We design places where people love to be together. Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together ...

Be Seen First

Horticultural Landscape Designer

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr (+ commission)

The Landscape Designer position maintains a key role within the landscape division, serving as the liaison between the customer and Armstrong Garden Centers. This position requires a dynamic and ...

New

Be Seen First

Horticultural Landscape Designer

Glendora, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr (+ commission)

The Landscape Designer position maintains a key role within the landscape division, serving as the liaison between the customer and Armstrong Garden Centers. This position requires a dynamic and ...

Be Seen First

Horticultural Landscape Designer

Claremont, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr (+ commission)

The Landscape Designer position maintains a key role within the landscape division, serving as the liaison between the customer and Armstrong Garden Centers. This position requires a dynamic and ...

New

Be Seen First

Horticultural Landscape Designer

Monrovia, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr (+ commission)

The Landscape Designer position maintains a key role within the landscape division, serving as the liaison between the customer and Armstrong Garden Centers. This position requires a dynamic and ...

Landscape Designer I

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$70 - $80/hr

We are seeking a Landscape Designer I to join our team at OJB Studios, a Populous Company to support the development of design and documentation for site design and mixed-use development plans for a ...

The Designer I role is an entry-level professional position responsible for supporting project ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Landscape Architecture or equivalent professional experience. * 0 ...

The Designer I role is an entry-level professional position responsible for supporting project ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Landscape Architecture or equivalent professional experience. * 0 ...

Landscape Designer I

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$67K - $79K/yr

The Designer I role is an entry-level professional position responsible for supporting project ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Landscape Architecture or equivalent professional experience. * 0 ...

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+ ...

Landscape Designer II

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $84K/yr

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+ ...

Showing results 21-40

Landscape Designer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$64.6K

$105.1K

How much do landscape designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Landscape Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,567 per year, or $31 per hour.

Landscape Designer II

Populous

Solana Beach, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Landscape Designer II
Location: San Diego, CA
Who We Are:
We design places where people love to be together.
Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together around the things they love, through experiences that capture all the senses, amplifying the atmosphere of excitement and pure joy shared in human moments.
Weโ€™ve designed and delivered some of the world's most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to ground-breaking live music venues. Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves. We offer the best of both worlds: the resources and impact of the design giants and the tightly knit atmosphere and growth opportunities of smaller firms.
What We Offer:
Professional amp; Personal Development Programs + Summer Hours + Hybrid Schedule + Paid Architect Licensure amp; Certifications Exams + Wedding Pay + Charitable Match Program + Market Leading Wellness Health and Welfare Benefits.
Who We Are Looking For:
We are seeking a Landscape Designer II to join our team at OJB Studios, a Populous Company to support the development of design and documentation for site design and mixed-use development plans for a diverse range of project types.
Our preferred candidate will have prior 3-6 years of landscape architectural experience and an interest in working in a dynamic global design environment with a diverse range of public assembly building types, including sports venues, convention centers, and airports.
What Your Day Could Consist Of:
  • Supporting development of design solutions and documentation from early design through to construction documents.
  • Preparing presentation materials and contributing to project interviews and design presentations.
  • Assisting in the creation of conceptual drawings, diagrams, digital models and visual imagery to support design ideas.
  • Participating in development of documents that meet industry standards and technical requirements, as well as construction drawings details in accordance with project specifications under the direction of a licensed landscape architect.
  • Participating in collaborative critiques and providing feedback on early-phase design concepts.
  • Conducting research on precedents, materials and design solutions to inform project development and enhance project outcomes.
Requirements For Success:
  • Excellent design, graphics and visualization skills.
  • Proficient in design programs including but not limited to: AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch-Up, Rhino and Microsoft Office.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills with the ability to clearly and accurately share design ideas.
  • Strong sketching and freehand drawing skills, capable of producing quick and impactful sketches to effectively communicate design concepts.
  • Positive attitude, resourceful nature and excellent problem-solving capabilities.
  • Self-motivated and capable of thriving in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and within a collaborative team.
Essential Qualifications:
  • Professional Degree in Landscape Architecture (BLA or MLA) from an accredited program.
  • 3-6 years of professional landscape architectural experience.
Additional Details:
  • Travel may be required.
  • Position involves sedentary work, requiring prolonged periods of sitting, frequent use of a computer and occasional movement in an office environment.
Compensation:
  • The projected salary range for this opportunity is $75,000 - $85,000 annually, and may be more or less depending on skills, experience and education.
Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401k, FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits. Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
No. 1 Most Innovative Company in Architecture by Fast Company
No. 1 Firm in Cultural on Interior Design magazineโ€™s Top 100 Giants
No. 1 Architecture Firm in Cultural Facilities by BD+C
No. 1 Architecture Firm in Convention Centers by BD+C
No. 1 Architecture Firm in Performing Arts and Concert Venues by BD+C
Find us here - https://populous.com/careers
Instagram: @WeArePopulous
X: @Populous