Designer: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or Environmental Design

Shipshape Urban Farms; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

BCBS Health Insurance

Standard national holidays

Job summary

A dynamic agricultural startup is seeking a creative Designer to develop functional and visually compelling farm environments. The role involves creating innovative designs, collaborating with engineers, and integrating sustainable practices. Ideal candidates should possess a degree in relevant fields and 5+ years of professional design experience. This full-time position provides an opportunity to impact community and sustainability through design.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in architecture, landscape architecture, or environmental design.
• Proficiency in hand sketching and design software.
• Ability to work on multiple projects with varying timelines.

Responsibilities

• Create schematic designs and construction drawings.
• Design site plans and modular farm layouts.
• Develop 3D models and renderings.

Skills

Professional design experience

Communication skills

Collaboration skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Design

Tools

Design software

Job description

Designer: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or Environmental Design

This role is primarily based at our headquarters in the Innovation Depot in downtown Birmingham. Depending on the position, work may involve hands‑on time in our hydroponic R&D lab, participation in farmers market events, or collaboration across digital and physical systems. As a startup, our environment is fast‑paced, evolving, and highly collaborative. Team members should be comfortable with shifting priorities, physical activity (standing, lifting, bending, etc.), and working with tools, technology, or plant systems in various stages of development. We value flexibility, problem‑solving, and a willingness to grow with the work.

About the Role

Objectives of this Role:

• Design functional, visually compelling structures and farm environments that support Shipshape’s mission.
• Translate conceptual ideas into buildable plans, working across multiple disciplines.
• Support architectural documentation, permitting, and construction coordination.
• Integrate environmental and wellness principles into built environments.

Responsibilities

• Create schematic designs, design development documents, and construction drawings.
• Design site plans, modular farm layouts, and facilities ranging from vertical farms to education labs and agritourism sites.
• Develop 3D models and renderings for internal design and client/investor presentations.
• Coordinate with biosystems and mechanical engineers to integrate MEP and farm systems into design.
• Incorporate regenerative design principles, ADA/accessibility, and local code compliance.
• Conduct material research and propose sustainable, cost-effective design solutions.

Requirements

Required Skills and Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional design experience in architecture, landscape architecture, or environmental design.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Design, or a related field.
• Proficiency in hand sketching and design software.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work on multiple projects with varying timelines and team structures.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Licensure or progress toward licensure (RA or RLA) is a plus.
• Familiarity with regenerative agriculture, wellness design, and/or biophilic principles.
• Familiarity with ASABE, LEED, or related sustainability frameworks.
• Experience designing for education, lab spaces, greenhouses, or food facilities.

Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000 annually, depending on experience

Employment Type: Full-time

• BCBS Health Insurance (75% Health, 100% Dental and Vision)
• Standard national holidays
• Based at the Innovation Depot in downtown Birmingham, AL

About the Company

Shipshape AgWorks is seeking a creative and experienced Designer with a background in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or Environmental Design to help shape the built environment of our high‑tech farms and regenerative community spaces. This role bridges design, agriculture, and sustainability—offering a unique opportunity to create inspiring, functional, and climate‑forward spaces. We’re looking for a designer who is passionate about food systems, community impact, and regenerative design. You will collaborate with engineers, growers, and builders to create modular farms, lab facilities, urban ag spaces, and nature‑integrated educational environments.