Resort Landscape Designer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the luxury hospitality industry, the role of resort landscape designers is more critical than ever.

As eco-consciousness increases and aesthetics evolve, the demand for talented professionals who can artfully shape, enhance, and preserve our resort environments grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a resort landscape designer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the artistry of resort landscape design,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable resort landscape designer job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Resort Landscape Designer Duties and Responsibilities

Resort Landscape Designers play a key role in creating visually appealing outdoor spaces that enhance the overall aesthetic of a resort.

They utilize their knowledge of plants, landscaping materials and design principles to create landscapes that are both functional and beautiful.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Consult with clients to understand their vision and needs for the resort’s outdoor spaces
• Develop detailed plans and sketches for new landscaping projects, including selection and placement of plants, trees, and hardscape elements
• Estimate costs for proposed designs and materials
• Coordinate with construction and maintenance teams to ensure design plans are implemented as intended
• Inspect the progress of the landscaping project regularly to ensure it is in line with the design plan
• Advise on the care and maintenance of landscapes, including watering, pruning, and fertilizing needs
• Consider environmental factors, such as climate, soil conditions and drainage, when selecting plants and designing landscapes
• Stay updated on current trends and innovations in landscape design
• Ensure all landscaping projects comply with local laws and regulations

 

Resort Landscape Designer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a creative and talented Resort Landscape Designer to conceptualize, design and execute aesthetic and functional outdoor environments for our resort.

The candidate will be responsible for every aspect of the project, from creating designs, choosing plants and outdoor decor to coordinating the construction team.

The ideal candidate should have a keen eye for detail, a strong sense of aesthetics, and a deep understanding of horticulture and environmental factors to create beautiful, sustainable, and enjoyable outdoor spaces.

 

Responsibilities

• Developing landscape plans, specifications, and cost estimates for resort projects.
• Consult with clients, engineers, and building architects to understand project requirements.
• Select appropriate materials for use in landscape designs.
• Coordinate with contractors and other professionals, such as architects, civil engineers, and city planners, to ensure job success.
• Inspect landscape project progress to ensure that it adheres to plans.
• Conduct environmental assessment and create solutions to overcome design challenges.
• Provide detailed site plans and reports for resort management and clients.
• Maintain updated knowledge of plants, horticultural practices, and landscape design trends.

 

Qualifications

• Degree in Landscape Design, Landscape Architecture or relevant field.
• Proven experience as a Landscape Designer.
• Experience with CAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and other relevant software.
• Strong portfolio showcasing unique landscape designs.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of horticulture, environmental ecology, and landscape construction.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Resort Landscape Designer
• Work Environment: Resort setting with significant outdoor work. Some travel may be required for project inspections or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Resort Manager or Landscape Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Resort Landscape Designer Do?

Resort Landscape Designers typically work for landscape design firms, architectural firms, or are self-employed, often contracted by resorts or hospitality businesses.

They are responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing the implementation of landscapes for resorts.

These landscapes can include gardens, pool areas, golf courses, and other outdoor spaces that add to the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the resort.

Resort Landscape Designers work closely with resort owners, architects, and other stakeholders to understand the vision for the resort.

They create detailed design plans using software, including the types of plants and trees to be used, the layout of walkways and paths, the design and placement of water features, and the arrangement of outdoor furniture and lighting.

Their job also involves assessing the environmental sustainability of their designs, considering factors such as the local climate, soil conditions, and water availability.

They may also be involved in the selection and sourcing of plant materials and other elements of the landscape.

Once the design is approved, Resort Landscape Designers often oversee the construction and planting phase to ensure the landscape is implemented according to the design.

They may also provide maintenance plans and guidelines to help the resort maintain the landscape in good condition.

In addition, Resort Landscape Designers may redesign existing landscapes to refresh the resort’s look, address issues such as erosion or plant diseases, or adapt to changes in the resort’s needs or operations.

 

Resort Landscape Designer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Resort Landscape Designer should have the skills and qualifications that match your job requirements, including:

• Strong knowledge in landscape design, horticulture, and environment sustainability for the creation of resort landscapes that are both beautiful and ecologically sound.
• Excellent artistic vision and creativity to design unique and pleasing landscapes that enhance the visual appeal of the resort and offer relaxing spaces for guests.
• Superb project management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring all are completed on time and within budget.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with resort management, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure landscape designs meet expectations.
• Strong problem-solving abilities to overcome unexpected challenges that may arise during the design and implementation process, such as adverse weather conditions or material shortages.
• Proficiency in landscape design software such as AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and other visualization tools to create detailed plans and present design ideas effectively.
• Understanding of the principles of resort hospitality and guest experience to create landscapes that enhance resort branding and customer satisfaction.
• Physical fitness and endurance to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and perform tasks such as site analysis and project supervision.

 

Resort Landscape Designer Experience Requirements

Resort Landscape Designers typically require a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture or a related field.

Entry-level positions may not require extensive experience, however, internships or part-time roles in landscape design can give candidates an edge.

Initial experience can be gained in roles such as Junior Landscape Architect, Landscape Designer, or Landscape Technician.

This allows aspiring Resort Landscape Designers to become familiar with various landscape design concepts and materials, as well as the use of design software.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience may have already completed their licensure requirements, if applicable, and have a strong portfolio of design work.

They have typically handled more complex projects, and are proficient in the planning, design, and management of landscape projects.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have a proven track record of successful projects.

They may have specialized in designing outdoor spaces for resorts and hospitality venues, and are well-versed in resort aesthetics, native plant species, and sustainable design practices.

These experienced designers may be ready to lead a team or take on larger, more complex resort landscape design projects.

Some resorts may require their landscape designers to have an advanced degree or additional certifications, especially if the role involves managing a team or handling large-scale, high-budget projects.

 

Resort Landscape Designer Education and Training Requirements

Resort Landscape Designers often hold a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture or a related field like environmental design or horticulture.

They typically have extensive knowledge of plants, horticulture, and landscape construction.

Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, and geographical information systems (GIS) is often necessary.

Postgraduate degrees in landscape architecture or a related field can be beneficial, particularly for those aspiring to work in senior roles or in large resorts.

This advanced education can provide a deeper understanding of complex design principles, project management, and environmental science.

Resort Landscape Designers are typically required to be licensed.

Licensing requirements include completion of an accredited degree program, a certain amount of work experience, and passing a national exam.

Many Resort Landscape Designers pursue additional certifications to enhance their skills and knowledge in specific areas, such as sustainable landscape design or water management.

These certifications may also indicate the designer’s commitment to continuous learning and professionalism.

Internships or cooperative education programs in landscape architecture can also provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

 

Resort Landscape Designer Salary Expectations

A Resort Landscape Designer can expect to earn an average salary of $69,360 (USD) per year.

This can vary widely based on factors such as years of experience, geographical location, and the prestige of the resort itself.

 

Resort Landscape Designer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Resort Landscape Designer need?

Resort Landscape Designers need to have a strong understanding of horticulture and plant varieties.

They should possess excellent design skills and a creative eye for arranging plants, trees, and flowers.

Good communication and presentation skills are required for discussing plans and ideas with clients and team members.

They also need to have knowledge about the local climate and soil conditions, and they must be able to work with computer design software.

 

Do Resort Landscape Designers need a degree?

While it’s not mandatory, a degree in Landscape Architecture or a related field can be beneficial for a Resort Landscape Designer.

This academic background provides them with a strong foundation in understanding the principles of design, plant biology, ecology, and site engineering.

However, experience in landscape design or a related field can also be valuable.

 

What should you look for in a Resort Landscape Designer resume?

A Resort Landscape Designer’s resume should showcase a strong background in landscape design or architecture.

Look for experience in designing outdoor spaces, preferably for resorts or similar hospitality industries.

Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Adobe Creative Suite is also important.

It’s also beneficial if the candidate has knowledge of local plant species and ecology, as well as a portfolio demonstrating their design skills and creativity.

 

What qualities make a good Resort Landscape Designer?

A good Resort Landscape Designer should have a strong aesthetic sense and a passion for creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces.

They should be detail-oriented, able to visualize the end result and execute it meticulously.

Good time management and project management skills are also essential, as they often work on multiple projects with varying deadlines.

Moreover, they should be adaptable and able to handle changes or challenges that may arise during the design process.

 

Is it challenging to find qualified Resort Landscape Designers?

Finding a qualified Resort Landscape Designer can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique blend of horticultural knowledge, design skills, and experience in the hospitality industry.

However, it’s not impossible if you know where to look and what to look for.

It’s essential to be clear about your expectations and requirements from the start, and to look for candidates with a proven track record in resort landscape design.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look at what being a resort landscape designer truly entails.

Surprised?

It’s not just about planting trees.

It’s about creating awe-inspiring retreats, one landscape detail at a time.

With our handy resort landscape designer job description template and concrete examples, you’re well on your way to making your next career move.

But don’t stop here.

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously designed job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Keep in mind:

Every landscape detail contributes to the bigger masterpiece.

Let’s create that dream resort. Together.

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