Design Manager

KW Landscape Architects (KW) is seeking a Design Manager for our San Antonio office. This role emphasizes conceptual innovation, advanced problem-solving, and the ability to shape projects from early visioning through detailed design execution, guiding design intent to be impactful, forward-looking, technically feasible, sustainable, and aligned with client goals.

Responsibilities

• Concept and Schematic Design
  • Conduct site analysis through research, field visits, and data collection to understand ecological, cultural, and spatial context.
  • Develop design concepts informed by site conditions, client vision, and programmatic needs.
  • Create compelling diagrams, sketches, and visual narratives to communicate design intent.
  • Translate initial ideas into sketches, diagrams, and graphics for client and internal team communication.
• Design Development
  • Translate conceptual ideas into detailed design solutions balancing aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
  • Develop illustrative plans, 3D models, and renderings to communicate design refinements.
  • Research and specify materials, planting palettes, and site furnishings aligned with project goals.
  • Work closely with engineers, architects, and consultants to resolve grading, drainage, and infrastructure coordination.
  • Review and incorporate client feedback to advance the design.
• Maintaining Design Integrity
  • Protect and carry design intent through design documentation and into construction phases.
  • Bridge design and production by reviewing drawings, details, and specifications for alignment with project vision.
  • Oversee preparation of high-quality renderings, graphics, and presentation materials.
  • Participate in site visits and provide input to maintain design quality through construction.
• Project Management & Collaboration
  • Set and monitor timelines for design deliverables to align with project schedules.
  • Lead coordination across departments, offices, and consultants at the project level.
  • Resolve design and technical conflicts proactively, maintaining project alignment and integrity.
  • Actively share best practices and lessons learned to strengthen cross-office collaboration.
• Presentation and Communication
  • Participate actively in client meetings and presentations as a design voice for KW.
  • Prepare and deliver compelling visuals, reports, and presentation packages.
  • Contribute to business development efforts by assisting with design narratives, visuals, proposals, and competitions.
  • Represent the firm in professional organizations, design juries, and community engagements to enhance visibility and influence.
  • Demonstrate collaborative and inclusive communication within project teams to support a strong studio culture.
• Team Development, Accountability and Operational Awareness
  • Guide and develop junior designers through mentorship, constructive feedback, and design critique.
  • Conduct quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) reviews of junior team members’ work.
  • Foster a positive and inclusive team culture by modeling professionalism and accountability.
  • Demonstrate understanding of project fees, scope, and schedule, aligning design objectives with project resources.
  • Track and report project progress, proactively communicating challenges and opportunities.
  • Support leadership in shaping company-wide design standards and embedding sustainable practices across projects.
• Career Progression
  • Employees are generally expected to spend a minimum of two years at the manager level; earlier advancement may be considered for exceptional performance.
  • Advancement requires demonstrated responsibility for leading projects from concept through design development and, depending on scale, through construction documentation.
  • Manage smaller projects independently while supporting Design Managers and Directors on larger, more complex projects.
  • Gain well-rounded project experience across various types and scales, demonstrating adaptability and versatility.
  • Progress toward licensure, including completing additional LARE sections and moving toward full registration.
  • Actively participate in professional organizations or community design efforts to promote the field and enhance KW’s visibility.
  • Strengthen client relationships by identifying opportunities for future work.
  • Progression is contingent on individual readiness and business needs, such as department capacity and role availability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, or related design discipline from an accredited university.
• Minimum 4-6 years of professional experience in landscape architecture or a related field, with demonstrated responsibility for significant portions of the design process on projects of varying scale and complexity.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design and visualization software, including AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, Lumion, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft 365.
• Proven experience guiding design teams and collaborating across disciplines, with excellent written, verbal, and visual communication skills.
• Ability to develop design concepts spanning from large-scale planning to site-specific detail.
• Demonstrated commitment to licensure, including CLARB registration and preparation for LARE exams.
• Active participation in AEC and landscape architecture organizations through committee involvement, presentations, or mentorship.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Regularly required to talk or hear.
• Frequently required to use hands or fingers, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include reading, writing, and typing.
• Primarily works indoors with some outdoor environment exposure, encountering varying temperatures.
• Noise levels can be high on project sites but are low in the office environment.

About KW Landscape Architects

KW Landscape Architects (KW) is a professional landscape architecture firm with offices in Austin, Houston, Indianapolis, and San Antonio. Founded in 1991 as a two-person operation, KW has grown into a thriving team of over 50 professionals. The firm focuses on designing exceptional outdoor spaces that inspire people to engage with the world around them, creating welcoming environments that build community, nurture belonging, and enrich shared experiences.

Pay

KW offers a competitive salary commensurate with background and experience.

Benefits

• 1/2-day Fridays
• Flexible office hours
• Endless supply of coffee and office snacks
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Yearly holiday office closure
• 401K plan with matching contributions
• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
• Monthly wellness stipend
• Support for professional growth and involvement in AEC and/or HR-specific organizations