Job Description:

Landscape Planting Design Specialist

Dubai, UAE

The Landscape Planting Design Specialist is responsible for the design and planning of planting schemes for a variety of outdoor spaces, including residential, commercial, public, and institutional landscapes. This role involves collaborating closely with landscape architects, irrigation engineers, urban designers, and other design professionals to create aesthetically pleasing, functional, and sustainable planting designs that enhance the built environment and support ecological health across the MENA region.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Develop planting plans and schedules for a wide range of landscape projects, selecting appropriate plant species based on site conditions, aesthetic goals / conceptual vision, and sustainability objectives.

• Create detailed planting plans, including plant layouts, species selection, spacing, and maintenance requirements.

• Ensure plant selections are suitable for local climate, soil conditions, and ecological factors, client requirements, prioritizing drought-tolerant and native species where possible.

• Development of standardized planting palettes and planning schedules that are reflective of locality or client requirements across the region.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

Collaboration with Design Teams:

• Work closely with landscape architects, urban designers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure that planting designs are well-integrated into overall site designs.

• Provide input on the selection and placement of plant material, considering factors like scale, color, texture, seasonal interest, and environmental benefits.

• Design in relation to subsurface and overhead utility constraints.

• Collaborate with contractors and suppliers to ensure the correct materials are sourced and used during the installation process.

• Consideration of species specification, procurement size, nursery growth and maturation over the years of development establishment period. 

• Provide detailed design consideration and establishment advice for site-based nurseries for projects in the region.

Sustainability & Environmental Considerations:

• Promote sustainable planting practices, including stormwater management, erosion control, and habitat creation.

• Focus on the use of native, low-maintenance plants to reduce water and fertilizer dependency, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the landscape.

• Advise on the use of planting to improve biodiversity, enhance soil health, and support local ecosystems.

Design Documentation:

• Produce high-quality, accurate planting design drawings, specifications, and reports.

• Prepare detailed planting schedules, operations & maintenance guidelines, and procurement lists for project implementation.

• Ensure all planting designs meet local regulations, accessibility standards, and sustainability certifications.

Client Interaction:

• Participate in client meetings and presentations, explaining planting design concepts and choices in a clear, accessible manner.

• Adapt designs based on client feedback, local conditions, and budget considerations.

• Provide expertise and recommendations to clients regarding plant selection and care.

Site Analysis & Evaluation:

• Conduct site assessments to understand environmental conditions, including soil quality, light levels, and water availability, to guide plant selection.

• Analyze existing vegetation and propose solutions for plant preservation, removal, or replacement as part of the design process.

​Planting Maintenance & Aftercare:

• Develop maintenance schedules and care plans for new planting installations, ensuring plant health and longevity.

• Stay informed about best practices in plant care and maintenance, including pruning, pest control, and seasonal requirements.

Research & Professional Development:

• Continuously research new planting trends, materials, and technologies to keep designs relevant, innovative, and in line with industry developments.

• Conduct visits to local nurseries and planting suppliers to understand stocks available.

• Attend workshops, conferences, and professional development opportunities to stay up to date with the latest in sustainable planting and landscape design.

• Maintain awareness of Government / Authority Circulars on horticultural information bulletins.​

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

• Minimum 8+ years of continuous experience in landscape architecture. International experience in North America, Europe, Middle East and Asia is preferrable.

• Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from an accredited University or College program.

• Possess professional registration, licensure or chartership (or working towards) with an internationally recognized professional association.

What Desired Skills You'll Bring:

• Demonstrate a team oriented and collaborative approach to landscape architecture planting design within the design team.

• Demonstrate a strong knowledge of plant species, horticultural practices, irrigation and soil science.

• Demonstrate a solid commitment to quality checking and quality design.

• Demonstrate solid communication skills with both internal and external stakeholders.

• Possess self-motivation, work part of the team but also have the ability to work independently.

• Demonstrate an understanding of key design related computer programs such as BIM, Adobe suites and Land FX software.

Minimum Clearance Required to Start:

Not Applicable/None

Parsons is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veteran.