Job Description
Downing is seeking a Site Designer with a background in civil engineering and/or landscape architecture to support our design-build projects. This is a hands-on role that works closely with architecture, construction, and external consultants from early feasibility through construction. The focus is feasibility site planning; code, utilities, grading, and coordination; not isolated concept work. You will be involved early, help shape what is feasible, and stay engaged as projects move toward construction.
Key Responsibilities
- Site Planning & Feasibility
- Prepare site concepts, feasibility plans, and master planning studies.
- Evaluate zoning, setbacks, parking, access, utilities, and development constraints.
- Municipal Coordination
- Interface with municipal staff and agencies.
- Prepare and manage municipal submittals; track review comments and approvals.
- Technical Coordination
- Review and cross-check civil, architectural, structural, and MEP drawings.
- Identify conflicts early and support resolution before they reach the field.
- Preliminary Site & Utility Layout
- Develop preliminary grading, hardscape, and utility routing concepts for feasibility and early budgeting/coordination.
- Construction Collaboration
- Coordinate closely with Downing’s construction team and external civil consultants.
- Provide constructability input and assist with cost-driven design decisions.
- Code & Field Verification
- Perform site ADA analysis and site compliance reviews.
- Conduct field verification.
Requirements & Qualifications
- Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, or related field.
- Experience
- 2–7 years of experience in a design-build or multidisciplinary environment.
- Strong understanding of how site, civil, and architectural drawings work together.
- Software
- Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and Civil 3D.
- Experience with visualization tools (Lumion, Enscape, or similar) is a plus.
- Technical Judgment
- Experience incorporating budget and constructability considerations into design work, and communicating these to our internal team and external partners.
- Communication
- Clear written, graphic, and verbal communication.
- Comfortable working with both municipal reviewers and field staff.
- Licensure
- RLA or PE licensure preferred but not required.
Why Downing?
You won't just be drawing lines; you’ll be building them. We offer a fast-paced, collaborative environment. If you’re ready to move beyond paper architecture and into the world of active construction, let’s talk.