Landscape Architect - NorCal

Dudek; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

A 100% employee-owned firm is seeking a self-motivated Habitat Restoration Specialist to lead projects that protect natural environments. The candidate should have a strong ecological background with at least 8 years of experience in habitat restoration. Responsibilities include developing design plans, project monitoring, and technical reporting. This position offers a hybrid work environment with a competitive salary of $85,000 to $145,000 annually based on experience. Strong communication and AutoCAD skills are essential.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of habitat restoration planning and implementation experience.
• Strong technical writing ability.
• Capability to conduct strenuous field work in hot weather.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of conceptual design plans for habitat restoration.
• Prepare technical reports, site assessments, and monitoring reports.
• Coordinate with biologists, ecologists, and engineers.

Skills

Ecological restoration

Communication skills

AutoCAD proficiency

Problem solving

Education

B.A. or B.S. in relevant field

Tools

GIS

AutoCAD

Job description

Habitat Restoration Specialist / Landscape Architect – NorCal

Join the team at Dudek, a 100‑% employee‑owned firm serving water and wastewater agencies nationwide. We are looking for a self‑motivated Landscape Architect with formal training and hands‑on experience in ecological restoration to help shape projects that protect our built and natural environments.

Location: Sacramento / Oakland / Santa Cruz / Fresno • Practice/Department: Habitat Restoration • Internal Title: Habitat Restoration Specialist III‑IV • Work Environment: Hybrid/Remote • Compensation: $85,000‑145,000 annually*

*Final compensation is determined by experience, education, certifications, skills, and location. Successful candidates must pass a pre‑employment drug test and background check.

Who You Are

You embrace accountability, safety, and collaboration. You are curious, solution‑oriented, and approach challenges with resourceful, independent thinking.

How You’ll Make an Impact

As a full‑time member of our Habitat Restoration Team, you will develop design plans, monitor projects, and provide technical leadership that supports sustainable restoration outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the development of conceptual design plans and construction documents for habitat restoration and open‑space projects.
• Perform construction observations and prepare punch‑list field reports.
• Conduct monitoring and reporting for long‑term restoration projects, including data collection and analysis.
• Prepare technical reports, site assessments, and annual monitoring reports.
• Produce construction drawings for site preparation, grading, planting, irrigation, and detailed design using AutoCAD.
• Provide design assistance or lead planning for mitigation, revegetation, and passive recreation projects.
• Conduct preliminary desktop analysis using GIS.
• Assist with resource agency permitting.
• Coordinate with in‑house biologists, ecologists, landscape architects, and engineers.
• Interpret habitat assessments, vegetation mapping, and biological survey reports.
• Manage projects, including workflow, budgeting, financial performance, and sub‑consultant coordination.
• Draft scopes and costs for proposal efforts.
• Collaborate on business‑development opportunities.

Minimum Qualifications

• B.A. or B.S. in Restoration Ecology, Environmental Science, Earth System Science, Biology, Landscape Architecture, or a related field with strong ecological background.
• 8+ years of habitat restoration planning and implementation experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong technical writing ability.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD.
• Capability to conduct strenuous field work in hot weather (over 100°F) and steep terrain, including remote assignments with overnight stays.
• Valid driver’s license and active personal automobile liability insurance.
• Self‑motivated, creative problem solver who can work independently and in a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• MLA in Landscape Architecture or related field and professional license.
• Experience leading new projects or business development in collaboration with the Habitat Restoration Practice Director.
• QA/QC review of conceptual design plans and construction documents.
• Resource agency coordination for mitigation projects.
• In‑depth knowledge of local ecology, plant communities, hydrology, soils, and native/non‑native plant species.
• Strong understanding of restoration concepts and ecological processes.
• Knowledge of environmental policies and regulations that govern restoration work.
• Experience with GIS and Land F/X software.
• Experience with mitigation banking or In‑Lieu Fee programs.
• Excellent technical writing skills.

Working Conditions

• Remote or office‑based environment with standard office equipment.
• Occasional site visits requiring outdoor work in extreme weather, uneven surfaces, and moving vehicles.

Physical Requirements

• Extended computer use, sitting or standing in office or remote settings.
• Participation in in‑person and virtual meetings and telephone communication.
• Adequate vision, including distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Dudek is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We provide equal employment opportunities in all aspects of the employment relationship and prohibit unlawful discrimination. Dudek is a U.S.-based employer and requires U.S. work authorization for all positions.