Staff Landscape Architect

Walt Disney famously said, “You can dream, create, design and build the most wonderful place in the world, but it takes people to make the dream a reality.”  At Disney Experiences, our cast are the key to the magic and we work together to inspire the future generations of guests that visit our theme parks and attractions worldwide.  As a part of our creative, problem-solving team, you will have a hand in the jar of pixie dust, pushing the limits of entertainment design, innovation and themed architecture.

Architecture & Facilities Engineering (A&FE) is looking for a Landscape Architect to support the development and sustainment of the Disneyland Resort and related properties.  As a resident subject matter expert, you will provide technical expertise, design management, problem solving and QA/QC for a wide range of projects including: site planning, landforms, hardscape design, planting design, irrigation, water features, integration of utilities and Ride/Show systems for the Area Development of projects at the Disneyland Resort. Project scopes range from big to small and brand new to renovations of historic (and beloved) structures.  

You will oversee production of construction drawings by external design resources, however drawings will seldomly be produced in house.  On each project you will act as the Owner’s Representative to provide design management of these outside resources ensuring projects are designed to Disney standards, fully coordinated with other disciplines, and compliant with codes. In close coordination with our other facilities, engineering and Imagineering disciplines, you will lead the design team to ensure all project partners and stakeholders are updated on project developments.  If you’re enthusiastic about joining a versatile team that is passionate about making the impossible, possible, apply today!

You will report to the Sr. Manager – Architecture.

Responsibilities/You Will:
•    Provide Landscape support to the A&FE Projects team for assigned projects
•    Manage the design and development of project construction drawings and specifications with internal and external resources
•    Progress landscape architectural design through all stages of assigned projects, including Concept, Feasibility, Schematic, Design Development, Construction Documentation, and Construction Administration
•    Review project concepts with internal stakeholders and partners
•    Lead design reviews and meetings throughout the design process
•    Review drawings and specifications at each design milestone to ensure design work executed adheres to all applicable building and accessibility codes and statutory regulations as required of a licensed landscape architect
•    Perform various technical tasks including site analysis, site planning, preliminary grading, preparing plans, developing site sections and elevations
•    Provide supplemental design documentation in the form of graphic presentations and sketch illustrations
•    Ensure that the area development intent is achieved by successfully integrating landscape architectural design with allied fields and components such as: infrastructure, facility architecture, structural engineering, grading/drainage design, Show/Ride/Entertainment assets and systems, etc
•    Serve as subject matter expert in aspects of the landscape architecture practice, including planting design, horticulture, construction methods, sustainability, etc.
•    Develop project scopes of work and create RFP’s (Request for Proposals) for external Architects/Engineers/Consultants
•    Coordinate with Project Management partners to review scope, schedule and budgets for assigned projects
•    Provide internal cost estimates for project support and review internal budgets throughout the project duration
•    Update stakeholders of all project developments throughout the project schedule (design and construction)
•    Partner with internal teams to develop, maintain, communicate, and enforce Walt Disney Company design guidelines, standards, master specifications, and details on all projects
•    Provide guidance and concise decision matrices to support executive decisions 
•    Leverage your technical expertise and lessons learned when reviewing all projects

Basic Qualifications/You Will Have:
•    U.S. Professional License credential
•    15 or more years of experience in landscape architecture/design practice
•    Demonstrated thoughtful design, artistic skills and professional judgment in solving complex area development problems
•    Skills in digital documentation/illustration/visualization tools such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign; Working knowledge/skills in AutoCAD and 3D software tools
•    Construction Administration experience including site observation visits and review of RFIs and Submittals
•    Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office Suite is required
•    Experience developing custom details to support unique facility design conditions 
•    Strong problem solving/analytical skills and time management/organizational skills
•    Strong written, verbal, and graphical communication skills with the ability to present complex analyses and issues to all levels of executive management
•    Must be capable of working independently on programs and projects but must have the maturity to seek guidance/approval and communicate as appropriate.
•    Ability to work well under pressure, prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously, often against tight deadlines 

Required Education:
•    BLA/BSLA degree from an accredited program
Preferred Qualifications
•    Advanced degree in landscape architecture, horticulture or land planning
•    Membership in one or more professional organizations such as American Society of Landscape Architects, Urban Land Institute, Construction Specifications Institute, U.S. Green Building Council, International Society of Arboriculture, or Green Roof Association is preferred
 

The hiring range for this position is $113,800.00-$152,500.00. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.