Project Landscape Architect | High-End Residential Design - Build
McDugald Steele is seeking an experienced Project Landscape Architect to lead a portfolio of high-end residential projects from concept design through construction documentation and into field implementation. This role requires a design-driven professional with excellent computer proficiency and strong technical field-production skills, capable of translating design intent into clear and precise documentation. The ideal candidate values thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and the opportunity to see projects carried through construction to completion for some of Houston’s most extraordinary gardens.
To help you better understand the role and what it is like to work at McDugald Steele, we have answered some of the most common questions candidates ask about the Project Landscape Architect position.
IS THIS A DESIGN - ONLY ROLE?
No. This is a true design-build position. You will stay engaged through construction documents and field implementation to ensure design intent is delivered in the built work.
WHAT TYPE OF PROJECTS WILL I WORK ON?
Our team focuses on luxury residential estates and gardens throughout Houston and the Greater Houston area. Projects often include complex landscape architecture elements such as custom hardscape, planting design, irrigation systems, water features, outdoor lighting, and long-term garden development.
WHAT MAKES McDUGALD STEELE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE FIRMS?
McDugald Steele operates as an integrated design-build firm, meaning our landscape architects collaborate closely with construction teams, horticultural specialists, and field supervisors throughout the entire project lifecycle. This allows designers to remain connected to the built work and ensure design intent is executed at the highest level of craftsmanship.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE PROJECT LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT ROLE?
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture from an accredited program and have professional experience in landscape architecture, preferably within residential or design-build environments. Texas RLA/PLA licensure or active pursuit of licensure is preferred.
WHAT SOFTWARE SKILLS ARE EXPECTED FOR THIS POSITION?
Project Landscape Architects should have strong computer proficiency and technical production skills, including experience with AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
IS EXPERIENCE IN RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE REQUIRED?
While not strictly required, experience with high-end residential landscape design or design-build environments is strongly preferred. Candidates should be comfortable designing detailed outdoor environments and coordinating closely with construction teams.
WILL I BE INVOLVED IN CONSTRUCTION AND FIELD IMPLEMENTATION?
Yes. One of the advantages of working at McDugald Steele is the opportunity to participate in construction observation and field coordination, ensuring designs are executed according to plan and built to the firm’s quality standards.
WHAT IS THE WORK CULTURE LIKE AT McDUGALD STEELE?
Our firm values collaboration, craftsmanship, and professional growth. Team members benefit from a supportive company culture that includes annual company traditions like the Spring Employee Appreciation picnic, monthly birthday celebrations, anniversary acknowledgements, holiday gatherings, special occasion events, and opportunities to collaborate with Houston’s leading design professionals.
WHERE IS THE POSITION LOCATED?
This full-time role is based in Houston, Texas, with projects located throughout the greater Houston area and surrounding communities.
WHAT BENEFITS DOES McDUGALD STEELE OFFER?
Benefits include competitive salary, medical and dental coverage with employer contribution, HSA program, 401(k) programs, paid time off and holidays, professional development support, continuing education opportunities, and complimentary memberships professional organizations the firm supports.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE PROJECT LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT POSITION?
Interested candidates should submit a resume and portfolio demonstrating design experience, technical documentation skills, and relevant landscape architecture projects.