The posting
McDugald Steele Landscape Architects & Contractors is a Houston-based design-build firm creating timeless high-end residential estate gardens through a fully integrated approach spanning landscape architecture, construction, planting, irrigation, pool and water features, lighting, and long-term garden management. For more than 50 years, McDugald Steele has built a reputation for excellence, earning numerous awards for landscape architecture and horticultural expertise. Our work reflects a deep respect for architecture, horticulture, and the art of building enduring outdoor environments.
We are 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.
The Opportunity
This position offers the opportunity to lead and manage exceptional residential landscape projects throughout Houston while working closely with an integrated team of highly-skilled landscape architects, construction professionals, horticulturists, and specialty trades.
Our collaborative design-build model allows designers to remain closely connected to the built work, ensuring design intent is carried through the entire project delivery process.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead high-end residential landscape projects from concept design through construction documentation and construction observation.
- Prepare and coordinate site plans, planting plans, grading and drainage plans, and hardscape detailing.
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining quality, schedule, and client expectations.
- Coordinate closely with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal design and construction teams.
- Conduct site visits, field reviews, and construction observation to ensure design intent and quality control.
- Guide material selection including paving, site furnishings, planting palettes, and specialty site elements.
- Support permitting and regulatory approval processes when required.
- Communicate design intent clearly through drawings, presentations, and consultant coordination.
- Lead and participate in client-facing meetings and presentations.
- Contribute to a collaborative studio culture focused on design leadership, technical production, and built work excellence.
What Sets This Role Apart
- Opportunity to work on some of Houston's most distinguished residential estates.
- Work alongside a team of highly skilled landscape architects and experienced construction supervisors.
- Be part of a collaborative team that partners with some of Houston's leading luxury design and construction professionals.
- Direct involvement in the design-to-build process, not just conceptual design.
- Close collaboration with highly skilled construction teams and specialty trades.
- Manage the full lifecycle of projects from concept design through field implementation.
- Take part in company traditions and team gatherings, including the spring appreciation picnic, holiday events and monthly birthday celebrations.
Company Benefits
- Competitive salary
- 401(k) retirement program
- Medical and dental coverage with employer contribution and HSA program options
- Life and disability insurance programs
- $15,000 employer-sponsored life insurance policy
- Company-issued cell phone
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Continuing education support
- Professional development and licensure reimbursement related to the field of employment
- Complimentary membership in select local and national professional design organizations supported by the company
- Discounts with select local suppliers and industry partners
- Vehicle mileage reimbursement
- Reimbursement for company - approved expenses
Job Requirements:
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or master's degree in landscape architecture from an accredited program.
- Texas RLA / PLA preferred, or actively pursuing licensure.
- Professional experience in landscape architecture, preferably within residential or design-build environments.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Working knowledge of grading, drainage, planting design, irrigation coordination, and construction documentation.
- Ability to read engineering drawings and technical specifications.
- Strong written, verbal, and client-facing communication skills.
- Experience managing multiple projects, schedules, and consultant coordination simultaneously.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or master's degree in landscape architecture from an accredited program.
- Texas RLA / PLA preferred, or actively pursuing licensure.
- Professional experience in landscape architecture, preferably within residential or design-build environments.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Working knowledge of grading, drainage, planting design, irrigation coordination, and construction documentation.
- Ability to read engineering drawings and technical specifications.
- Strong written, verbal, and client-facing communication skills.
- Experience managing multiple projects, schedules, and consultant coordination simultaneously.
