CAD Designer / Junior Landscape Architect

Rolling Landscapes Inc; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance stipend

401(k) plan with company match

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

A leading design-build firm in Lemont, Illinois, is seeking a CAD Designer with 0-4 years of experience. The role involves creating CAD designs, conducting site assessments, and collaborating on project management tasks. Ideal candidates will have proficiency in CAD and Excel, along with a degree in landscape architecture or related fields. This position offers mentorship under a licensed Landscape Architect, valuable for obtaining credit toward licensure, while ensuring a hands-on experience in both office tasks and outdoor assignments.

Qualifications

• 0 - 4 years in Landscape Design, Architecture, Construction Management or relevant internships.
• Technical skills required in CAD and Excel.
• Willingness to work outdoors for surveys and plant tagging.

Responsibilities

• Create accurate base maps in CAD and produce finished plans.
• Conduct site inventories and perform site surveys.
• Generate cost estimates and prepare proposals.

Skills

Proficiency in CAD

Experience with Excel

Strong organizational skills

Education

Degree in Landscape Architecture

Degree in Architecture

Degree in Horticulture

Job description

Rolling Landscapes is a premier design-build and maintenance firm serving the western Chicago suburbs area. We specialize in custom landscape architecture, high-end hardscape installations (masonry and pavers), and comprehensive property maintenance. From solving complex drainage issues to installing luxury outdoor living spaces, we take pride in managing the entire process from the first sketch to the final planting.

The Role:

We are looking for a CAD Designer, Landscape Architect, or Architect with 0 - 4 years of experience to join our team. This is a hands-on, in-person role that bridges the gap between the drawing board and the job site.

You will work directly under a licensed Landscape Architect, making this an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking mentorship and hours toward accreditation or licensure.

Schedule Note: Candidates must be comfortable with the seasonal nature of the industry, which requires early start timesto coordinate with crews and deliveries.

• Salary: $60,000 - $80,000 annually (based on experience).
• Health Insurance: Health insurance stipend (typically covers premiums).
• Retirement: 401(k) plan with company match.
• Bonuses: Performance-based bonuses available.

Key Responsibilities:

Design & Drafting:

• Create accurate base maps in CAD and produce finished plans for client presentations.
• Develop detailed construction drawings, perennial layouts, and color renderings.
• Provide illustrations for specific details.

Field Work & Site Analysis:

• Conduct site inventories: measure homes, photograph existing conditions, and shoot preliminary grades.
• Perform site surveys to identify drainage issues or elevation changes.

Project Management & Administration:

• Create client project folders and manage internal design lists.
• Generate cost estimates, including plant lists, hardscape takeoffs, material lists, and labor calculations.
• Prepare proposals, contracts, and permit paperwork.
• Create subcontractor packets for bids (fencing, irrigation, lighting, carpentry).

Procurement & Horticulture:

• Source plants (balancing price vs. quality) and input orders into Excel.
• Travel to nurseries to tag trees and shrubs; order perennials and groundcovers.
• Manage logistics: Coordinate plant deliveries/pick-ups and check in orders upon arrival (quality control).
• Stage materials for crews on the morning of installation to ensure the right plants go to the right job.

Qualifications:

• Experience: 0 - 4 years in Landscape Design, Architecture, Construction Management or relevant internships and projects.
• Education: Degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, or Horticulture preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD is a must. Experience with Excel is required.
• Field Readiness: Willingness to work outdoors for surveys and plant tagging.
• Soft Skills: Strong organizational skills to handle the administrative side alongside the creative side.

Why Apply?

• Mentorship: Work under a licensed Landscape Architect to gain credit toward your own licensure.
• Variety: This is not just a desk job. You will be involved in tagging materials, site visits, and trade coordination.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume within LinkedIn, and we will be in touch soon.