Design Manager

Job description:

The Landscape Architecture Design Manager will lead, manage, and inspire the landscape architecture design process across diverse, high-profile projects within DAR's multidisciplinary environment.

This role is responsible for steering the creative and technical vision of landscape architecture — ensuring that every project integrates aesthetic innovation, environmental sensitivity, and functional excellence. The Design Manager will balance design leadership with management rigor, overseeing design quality, coordination, and delivery across all project phases, from concept through construction documentation.

The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the firm's landscape design philosophy and mentoring teams to deliver exceptional public realm and open-space environments aligned with DAR Engineering's standards and the client's aspirations.

Key Responsibilities/Deliverables:

• You will be living and breathing the projects from inception to completion and be able to turn your hand to all aspects of the projects.
• Lead the conceptual, schematic, and detailed design stages for landscape architecture projects.
• Provide creative and technical leadership to in-house landscape teams and external sub-consultants.
• Ensure landscape design quality aligns with DAR Engineering's standards, client expectations, and international best practices.
• Review and critique design deliverables, ensuring clarity, innovation, and design integrity.
• Plan, organize, and manage the full landscape design workflow, from concept to tender and construction documentation.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including architecture, urban design, infrastructure, and MEP disciplines to ensure design integration.
• Lead internal design coordination meetings and provide progress updates to senior management and project stakeholders.
• Act as the primary client interface for all landscape design-related matters.
• Present design concepts, material palettes, and masterplan layouts to clients, authorities, and stakeholders.
• Manage client feedback and approvals, ensuring expectations are met within scope, time, and cost parameters.
• Oversee preparation and review of landscape design documentation, including planting plans, hardscape details, irrigation design coordination, and sustainability integration.
• Ensure compliance with relevant local authority standards, codes, and environmental regulations (e.g., MOMRA, DGDA, RCRC etc ).
• Coordinate with environmental and infrastructure teams to integrate stormwater management, grading, and irrigation strategies within the landscape scope.
• Explore innovative materials, native planting strategies, and smart irrigation technologies suitable for arid and semi-arid climates.
• Contribute to DAR Engineering's sustainability and green design initiatives in alignment with LEED, Estidama, or other regional sustainability frameworks.
• Manage workload distribution, performance, and productivity of the landscape design team.
• Support recruitment and capability-building efforts within the landscape discipline.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor and/or Masters Degree in Landscape Architecture or Landscape Design from a recognized university.
• 15+ years of professional experience in landscape design, including at least 5 years in a managerial or leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated experience delivering complex public realm, hospitality, institutional, infrastructure, or mixed-use developments.
• Proven ability to manage landscape architecture design within a multidisciplinary consultancy environment.
• Deep understanding of regional climate-responsive design and Saudi authority standards.
• Proficiency in design and coordination software: AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, Lumion/Enscape, Rhino, and MS Project.
• Experience with BIM integration in landscape workflows is an advantage.
• Certification in LEED, SITES, or equivalent sustainable design frameworks preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Strong design leadership and aesthetic judgment.
• Solid technical background in landscape detailing and documentation.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client-facing skills.
• Effective management and coordination across multiple projects.
• Commercial awareness and understanding of project financials.
• Strategic thinker with an innovative and solution-oriented mindset.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary collaboration and inspire high-performing teams.

What We Offer:

• A chance to work on landmark projects in Saudi Arabia.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• An engaged and supportive team that are passionate about encouraging each other to succeed.
• Work for a company who values their employees and recognizes their contribution.

We understand that to accomplish our goals, we must work as a team and rely on the efforts of every team member. We want team members to start their day with a sense of purpose and end it with a sense of accomplishment.

To Apply:

If you believe you have the skills, knowledge, and experience to fulfil this role, please submit your application online by clicking 'Apply'.

Riyadh-based candidates preferred, but relocation support is available for the right talent.

DAR Engineering is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, age, marital status, gender identity, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

What's Next?

Once your application has been submitted and reviewed, our Talent Acquisition team will contact shortlisted candidates.

Our selection process typically comprises two interview stages per vacancy, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation while providing candidates with the opportunity to engage with two members of the hiring team at each stage. The initial interview is generally conducted virtually, while the final stage often takes place in person at the office, aligning with the role's location.

That said, we prioritize flexibility, tailoring our approach to accommodate the specific needs of both the position and the candidate.

Thank you for considering a career with us. We encourage you to regularly check for updates and explore future opportunities with DAR Engineering. Best of luck