WILL COUNTY FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT JOB DESCRIPTION

TITLE: LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT DEPARTMENT: PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT
LOCATION: SUGAR CREEK ADMINISTRATION CENTER

BASIC FUNCTION

The Landscape Architect is responsible for creative planning, design and development of high-quality recreational facilities that enhance the environment, including production of design and contract documents, budget management, construction supervision, site restoration supervision and coordination of staff, contractors, agencies, and citizens.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to: • Chief Landscape Architect Supervises: • None • This position requires the coordination and facilitation of District Staff, Design Consultants, and Contractors.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Serve as a project manager/team leader for all phases of site design and development.
2. Prepare master plans, coordinating staff from other departments in the master planning process for new and redeveloped sites.
3. Coordinate the public input process on District projects, including mailings, public meetings, and website information.
4. Prepare documents and manage the selection process for consultants; defining scope of services; ranking and interviewing.
   
5. Direct consultants in the preparation of construction documents that meet District standards and are coordinated with necessary departments and agencies.
   
6. Coordinate with federal, state, county, and local government agencies, organizations, and volunteer groups. Ensure completion of necessary reviews, permits, approvals, zoning changes and compliance with policies, plans and regulations.
7. Prepare bidding documents and administer the competitive bidding and quote process.
8. Supervise construction and site restoration projects assuring contractor’s work conforms to the project specifications; coordinate testing, verify quantities, and evaluate recommended changes.
   
9. Prepare in-house site design, development plans, native landscape planting plans, and construction documents for development and renovation projects.
10. Assist in departmental team reviews of environmental assessments, impact statements, use requests and off-site developments that impact District properties.
11. Participate in District wide work groups related to planning and development issues. Assist other departments and teams needing planning and design skills.
12. Assist with long- and short-range planning for future projects, preparing schedules, estimates, and needs analysis.
13. Prepare presentation materials, graphics, written reports, and grant applications.
    
14. Other duties as assigned by supervisor or director.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Must possess a high degree of knowledge of construction, design and engineering standards and principles and techniques of landscape architecture as they relate to construction materials and methods. • Proficiency in reviewing and preparing plans and specifications. • Knowledge of native landscapes and design with native plant material and related landscaping materials. • Must have knowledge of Midwest natural communities, native and non-native plant species identification, natural area management techniques and ecology. • Must effectively communicate, written and oral, with professional staff, consultants, citizens and volunteers. • Current knowledge and skill in AutoCAD, ArcGIS, Adobe Creative Suite, and basic computer skills in Microsoft Office products. • Must possess and maintain a current and valid Motor Vehicle Operator's license.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture

Experience: Entry level candidates are welcome. Five years of experience in professional level landscape architecture/design work with an emphasis on recreational facilities and experience with supervision of construction projects is preferred.

Certifications: License in Landscape Architecture from the State of Illinois Department of Professional Regulation preferred. Candidates are required to attain licensure within 3 years of employment.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS

Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Semi-active job; while performing the duties of this job the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands and fingers to manipulate objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs, talk and hear.
2. While performing the duties of this job the employee occasionally works near moving parts; traverses’ uneven terrain; works in outside extreme heat or cold weather conditions; lifts and/or moves up to 50 pounds; is exposed to fumes, airborne particles, smoke and toxic or caustic chemicals and potentially hazardous plants and animals.
3. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distant vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
4. The noise level in this job is usually moderate but can be high.

OTHER INFORMATION

This 40 hour/week position entails working Monday - Friday with the possibility/option to work flexible weekday, evening, and weekend shifts. Occasional extended hours and weekend workdays will be required. This position includes the option of a maximum of 16 hours of remote work during each work week.

PAY RANGE AND ANNUAL SALARY

Pay range: Grade 13

Minimum: $64,701 Midpoint: $79,259 Maximum: $97,092

Schedule: Full Time

Resumes will be accepted until March 31, 2023.

Application Procedure: Send a cover letter describing interest and a resume to:

Donna Suca, Director of Human Resources Forest Preserve District of Will County 17540 W. Laraway Road Joliet, Illinois 60433 815-722-5667 (desk) 815-722-3608 (fax) Humanresources@fpdwc.org