Studio Lead - PLA

WHAT LJA HAS TO OFFER

LJA is offering an exciting opportunity that will allow you to reach your full career potential. The structure of our organization is designed to amplify your capabilities while gaining the benefits of being an employee-owner. What truly sets this opportunity apart is the chance to collaborate every day with dedicated, skilled, and supportive leaders. Whether you are in the office, in the field, or behind the scenes, working at LJA gives you the chance to grow through hands‑on experience and exposure to a broad range of clients and services.

WHAT MAKES LJA DIFFERENT

At LJA, our employee‑owners take pride in their work and their workplace. We’re guided by leaders who foster a culture of respect, collaboration and a shared vision of success. Our difference is evident in the experiences and opportunities we provide.

• Employee‑owned. Client‑focused
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Consistently ranked as a Top Workplace
• Internal recruitment team, in‑house training, and a marketing department specific to our industry
• We celebrate flexibility, allowing every team and office to lead with their proven approach
• Our culture champions continuous learning and personal growth
• We believe success comes through constant evolution and communication
• We are passionate about having fun and making money, all while creating impact

As a Studio Lead at LJA Land Development, you will be responsible for overseeing the artistic direction and visual identity of planning projects under the supervision of an associate principal and principal planner. Your responsibilities will encompass supervision of the design work of planners, CAD technicians, and interns, providing creative guidance and leadership, and ensuring that the artistic vision aligns with the project goals and client’s objectives.

Your duties will include preparing or supervising the preparation of concept plans, street pattern sketch plans, and site plans, as well as providing direction, guidance, and reviews to team members to ensure high‑quality deliverables. Additionally, you will be responsible for developing and implementing new design methods and processes, reviewing design studies and exhibits, and collaborating with various stakeholders to develop and execute visually stunning and impactful designs.

Concept Plan Preparation:
Prepare concept plans for various planning projects, incorporating creative and innovative design solutions via hand sketches.

Ensure that concept plans align with the client’s vision, project requirements, and industry standards.

Street Pattern Plan Preparation:
Develop street pattern sketch plans that consider functionality, aesthetics, and pedestrian‑friendly design.

Collaborate with the project team to ensure the street layout complements the overall project vision.

Review street patterns after they are in CAD to make sure they adhere to the sketch and overall concept plan.

Site Plan Development:
Create site plans using hand sketches or CAD software, focusing on spatial organization, circulation, and design aesthetics.

Ensure site plans adhere to zoning regulations, environmental considerations, and project objectives.

Direction and Guidance:
Provide clear direction and guidance to the project team regarding concept plans, street layout plans, and lotting studies.

Foster a collaborative environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and professional growth.

Review and evaluate the design of concept plans, lotting studies, and illustrative exhibits for adherence to design standards and project goals. Provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement to maintain high‑quality deliverables.

Contribute to developing and implementing new design methods, processes, and technologies to enhance efficiency and creativity. Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in planning and landscape architecture.

Provide guidance and direction on the aesthetic aspects of illustrative exhibits, including graphics, color schemes, composition, & visual storytelling. Ensure that the visual representation…