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Landscape Project Architect

Mariani Landscape · Highland Park, IL · $75,000–$97,500 a year · Full time

Posted Aug 24, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

You'd develop designs, construction documents, estimates and proposals for presentations led by the Design Principal and Design Directors. Walk me through a project from your portfolio.

What they are checking: Whether they can explain their design process and decisions clearly to senior designers.

Tell me about a time you had to finish a design under a tight deadline. How did you keep quality up?

What they are checking: Whether they can manage time and still deliver strong work when deadlines are close.

What would you do

A Design Director wants changes to your design that you think weaken it. How do you handle that?

What they are checking: Whether they can share their view respectfully and accept direction from senior leaders.

How would you mentor a junior landscape designer whose drawings have frequent errors?

What they are checking: Whether they can teach patiently and help others improve, which the role includes.

How do you design for both beauty and long-term maintenance?

What they are checking: Whether they think about how a design will look and be cared for years later, not just at install.

About the work

How do you prepare a site analysis before starting a design?

What they are checking: Whether they study grading, drainage, sun and existing conditions before drawing anything.

How do you make sure your construction documents are clear enough for crews to build from?

What they are checking: Whether they understand what builders need, which prevents costly mistakes in the field.

How do you choose plants for a high-end residential design in the Chicago area?

What they are checking: Whether they know hardiness, seasonal interest and site conditions for this region.

How do you estimate costs for hardscape, planting and lighting in a design?

What they are checking: Whether they can tie designs to realistic costs so proposals are accurate.

What software do you use for design and rendering, and how fast can you produce client-ready drawings?

What they are checking: Whether they can produce professional work efficiently with the tools the studio uses.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Mariani Landscape.

Work With The Best We are building the premier outdoor living company in the country by creating a “family of family companies” across the nation. Now you can build your landscaping career with the best, working in one of our many company locations nationwide. Learn from the top experts in the field and work on some of the country’s largest and most complex landscape projects. Take advantage of opportunities to share and exchange best practices across our network. The opportunities are endless. POSITION SUMMARY: Mariani Landscape is hiring a Project Architect. This position supports the design team by developing high-quality landscape designs, construction documents, estimates, and proposals for presentations led by the Design Principal and Design Directors. It also provides mentorship to landscape designers and reviews project work to strengthen the department's overall output. This position interacts with the design and sales team on a regular basis. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following: • Produce quality landscape design with supporting materials such as sketches, elevations, and rendered plans. • Create quality and unique designs within budget parameters and on a timely basis. • Support the Design Team in preparing site analysis, project packages of required drawings, estimates, and proposals on a timely basis. • Communicate with Project Directors and Design Directors as required to update project status. • Adhere to and help maintain departmental design standards, including planting and AutoCAD standards. • Work independently and collaboratively on recurring and special design projects. • Develop accurate grading and drainage plans in accordance with site engineering principles. • Use appropriate survey equipment to collect site information and verify site conditions. • Provide accurate, professional construction plans and details for the construction department and subcontractors. • Ensure clear and efficient workflow across project phases. • Identify zoning and building codes, permit requirements, and other project-related requirements. • Evaluate work for accuracy, constructability, and client satisfaction, identifying any necessary next steps. • Prepare accurate estimates, material takeoffs, and bid sheets. • Provide ongoing mentorship to Landscape Designers and interns through regular design critiques, redlines, and technical guidance. • Review Landscape Designers' design packages and construction drawings for creativity, technical accuracy, and graphic quality. • Model creative problem solving and high-quality graphic communication for developing designers. • Help identify skill gaps and recommend training opportunities to the Sr. Project Director or Director of Design. • Communicate problems, client concerns, and associate matters to the Sr. Project Director or Director of Design in a timely manner. • Participate in weekly departmental and training meetings; lead topic discussion in departmental meetings. QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's degree required, with a field of study in Landscape Architecture or Horticulture, with an emphasis in Design. • Previous experience in the landscape industry preferred. • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Adobe Suite. • Knowledge of landscape terminology, plant materials, applicable construction materials, and coordination in design. • Basic understanding of site engineering and use of survey equipment. • Ability to understand the Mariani approach to Design/Build and follow Mariani standards. • Ability to work in a team environment, including taking direction and constructive feedback from team members, as well as providing feedback to others. • Flexibility to perform duties wherever volume deems it necessary, minimizing non-productive time. • Strong verbal and written communication skills with Mariani associates and clients on a consistent basis. • Strong attention to detail. • Ability to deliver quality results under tight deadlines. • Working knowledge of general computer functions and programs, with the ability to learn and use the company's estimating and design software (ASPIRE). THE PERKS: • 401(k) with company match • Medical, dental, and vision insurance • FSA / HSA options • Life and long-term disability insurance • Paid time off • Tuition reimbursement (after one year of service) • Employee perks and discount programs Position Range: $75,000 - $97,500 Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Mariani Enterprises, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment with regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service or any other characteristic protected by law.

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