Landscape Designer

Company Overview

This Landscape Design Company is a premier landscape architecture and construction firm specializing in the Art of Fine Gardening for discerning residential clients throughout the Chicago area and beyond. With over three decades of experience, annual revenues of approximately $16 million
, and a team of 135 dedicated professionals
, they are recognized as a leader in horticulturally driven design, construction, and long-term garden stewardship for some of the region’s most sophisticated estates and properties.

We are seeking an accomplished Senior Landscape Designer to join our design studio. This role offers the opportunity to create refined, horticulturally rich residential landscapes that reflect our commitment to artistry, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty.

This is a mid-level leadership role requiring exceptional creative talent, the ability to manage complex estate-scale projects, mentor junior designers, and collaborate closely across disciplines.

This is not a role for designers focused on commercial, municipal, or institutional work. We are seeking someone deeply passionate about high-end residential design
—creating gardens for private clients who value botanical artistry, ecological sensitivity, and timeless design.

• Create sophisticated landscape designs for high-end residential estates, from concept through construction
• Develop master plans, detailed planting plans, and construction-ready documentation
• Design within established budgets while maintaining exceptional quality and artistic vision
• Manage multiple complex projects concurrently, meeting deadlines and client expectations
• Collaborate closely with construction teams, horticulture staff, and project managers throughout installation
• Build strong client relationships, presenting concepts clearly and responding to evolving needs
• Conduct site visits during construction to ensure design intent is fully realized
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to a studio culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture
• 7+ years of experience in residential landscape design with demonstrated excellence
• Strong preference for experience in high-end residential design studios with direct client interaction
• Proficiency in AutoCAD (required); strong hand-rendering and sketching abilities
• Exceptional knowledge of Midwestern plants, ecology, and horticultural applications
• Solid understanding of grading, drainage, hardscape construction, and site engineering
• Ability to design within budget parameters while maintaining design integrity
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
• Strong presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills
• RLA preferred
  , but not required for exceptional candidates

• Competitive salary: $85,000 – $110,000 annually, based on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, 401(k) with match, and paid time off
• Opportunity to work on extraordinary residential projects of exceptional scale and detail
• Open studio environment that fosters collaboration and creative exchange
• Integrated design-build practice—see your designs fully realized by skilled teams
• Professional development and mentorship opportunities
• The chance to create lasting landscapes for sophisticated clients who value excellence

Please submit:

• Resume
• Cover letter describing your design philosophy and interest in residential landscape design
• Portfolio demonstrating relevant high-end residential project experience
• Please send information and get in touch with Leslie Swisher at , , or

This Landscape Design Company is an equal opportunity employer.

Tagged as:
High-end Residential, Landscape Architecture, Landscape Design, Luxury Residential