Job Description of a Landscape Engineer

More commonly known as landscape architects, landscape engineers combine aesthetics with functionality in designing a variety of spaces that include parks and gardens, campuses, residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, historical sites, golf courses and waterfront developments. Landscape engineers also develop plans to restore natural areas, such as forests and wetlands, which have been affected by humans. They incorporate knowledge of ecology, graphic design, plant materials, construction and computer technology into their work. Landscape engineers often work with surveyors, architects, urban planners, civil engineers, environmental scientists and hydrologists.

Job Duties

Landscape engineers must consider budget, client needs, functionality, government regulations and environmental impact when designing a site. They research both natural and man-made features that exist on proposed sites to determine how to improve them and work them into the plans. During the planning stage, landscape engineers may make several revisions to the design of the project.

When the site plan is completed, landscape engineers compile reports, cost estimates, photos, illustrations, land use studies and models to create a proposal to submit to the client. Upon approval of a project, landscape engineers list the needed materials and supplies, as well as construction details. They also ensure that their plans are followed during site construction.