Design Executive - Landscape Architecture Leader

KW Landscape Architects; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

1/2-day Fridays

endless supply of coffee and office-sn

flexible office hours

PTO

401K plan with matching contributions

health insurance (medical, dental, and

monthly wellness stipend

support for your professional growth

Job summary

KW Landscape Architects is seeking a Design Executive to lead strategy from early site analysis through detailed design and construction, shaping project vision and delivery in Houston or Austin. This leadership role emphasizes contextually responsive landscape architecture that is sustainable, technically feasible, and aligned with client goals.

You will guide design teams, collaborate with engineers and clients, oversee charrettes, and help elevate KW’s design culture while mentoring junior

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, or related design discipline from an accredited university.
• Minimum 8+ years of relevant experience in landscape architecture, urban design, or related fields.
• Strong skills in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Rhino, Miro, and/or Lumion; experience with Revit is a plus.
• Ability to analyze complex site conditions, synthesize information, and develop strategic design solutions.
• Active participation in AEC organizations to stay informed on industry trends and best practices.
• Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills to convey design intent, collaborate effectively, and engage with clients and stakeholders.
• Ability to promote the firm, build professional relationships, and contribute to business development efforts.
• Demonstrates initiative, takes responsibility for project success, and manages workload effectively.
• Works well in multidisciplinary teams, providing guidance to junior designers and aligning with project managers, consultants, and contractors.
• Willingness to travel as needed for site visits, client meetings, and industry events.
• Assists with other assignments and/or special projects as requested.

Responsibilities

• Conduct site analysis through research, field visits, and data collection to understand ecological, cultural, and spatial context.
• Develop design concepts informed by site conditions, client vision, and programmatic needs.
• Create compelling diagrams, sketches, and visual narratives to communicate design intent.
• Lead design charrettes and collaborative workshops to refine ideas with the internal team and external project partners.
• Translate conceptual ideas into detailed design solutions that balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
• Develop illustrative plans, 3D models, and renderings to communicate design refinements.
• Research and specify materials, planting palettes, and site furnishings aligned with project goals.
• Work closely with engineers, architects, and consultants to resolve grading, drainage, and infrastructure coordination.
• Review and incorporate client feedback to advance the design.

Skills

AutoCAD

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe InDesign

Rhino

Miro

Lumion

Revit

Ajera

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Landscape Architecture

Tools

Ajera

Job description

KW Landscape Architects is seeking a Design Executive to lead strategy from early site analysis through detailed design and construction, shaping project vision and delivery in Houston or Austin. This leadership role emphasizes contextually responsive landscape architecture that is sustainable, technically feasible, and aligned with client goals.

You will guide design teams, collaborate with engineers and clients, oversee charrettes, and help elevate KW’s design culture while mentoring junior