Landscape Architects

Plan and design land areas for projects such as parks and other recreational facilities, airports, highways, hospitals, schools, land subdivisions, and commercial, industrial, and residential sites.

SOC: 17-1012.00

Common Job Titles

Golf Course ArchitectLand PlannerLandscape ArchitectLandscape Planner

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeCreate landscape design plans for parks, commercial sites, and public facilities integrating environmental, aesthetic, and functional requirements using CAD and design software.
  • KnowledgeFormulate design strategies and project objectives balancing client needs, budget constraints, and sustainability goals.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize data from site analysis, biological assessments, and historical research to develop contextually sensitive and innovative landscape solutions.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze site conditions, topography, and geographical data using GIS systems and GPS technology to inform design decisions.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate design proposals for compliance with safety codes, zoning regulations, and environmental standards collaborating with regulatory agencies and interdisciplinary teams.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery technical drawings and specifications using Autodesk AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp Pro to communicate design intent.
  • MindsetIntegrate client vision with ecological and community-centered design principles through active listening and consultation with diverse stakeholders.
  • KnowledgeAssess engineering feasibility and construction methods coordinating with civil engineers, contractors, and construction teams.
  • MindsetAdvocate sustainable design practices and environmentally responsible land use when presenting proposals to clients and public agencies.
  • KnowledgeDevelop project schedules, budgets, and resource allocation plans managing personnel and material resources under time constraints.
  • MindsetBalance competing stakeholder interests and technical requirements through negotiation and conflict resolution in multi-party projects.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Landscape Architects (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

19,580

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$51,990
10% of workers earn the following or more$132,250
Workers on average earn$88,000

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Design4.8/5
  • Building and Construction4.3/5
  • Public Safety and Security4.0/5
  • English Language3.9/5
  • Engineering and Technology3.8/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe AcrobatAdobe Creative Cloud softwareAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesignAdobe PhotoshopAutodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DAutodesk RevitBentley MicroStationESRI ArcGIS softwareMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft WordTrimble SketchUp Pro

Technology Skills

Adobe FreeHand MXAutodesk 3ds MaxCorel CorelDraw Graphics SuiteCoyote Software DynaSCAPE DesignDesktop publishing softwareESRI ArcViewGeographic information system GIS systemsLumion

Tools & Equipment

Computer scannersDesktop computersDigital camcordersDigital camerasGlobal positioning system GPS receiversLaptop computersPersonal computers