Environmental Design
Job Description
As an environmental designer, you will be planning and developing structures that are functional and aesthetically pleasing, yet environmentally friendly. With mindfulness for the surrounding environment, you will be responsible for choosing sustainable materials and methods. The work often includes collaboration with other landscape architects, general architects, and urban planners.
Education & Experience
A bachelor's degree in an accredited program in environmental design, urban planning, architecture, or a related field is required. A Masters degree is more common. Urban planners must pass the certification exam whereas architects must pass the licensing exam. Experience interning or working under a licensed professional, typically for over 3 years, is required. Obtaining additional certifications, such as the LEED credential from the Green Building Certification Institute, is highly desirable.
Designers should have the skills listed below:
- aptitude for math
- artistic ability & creativity
- good visual and spatial thinking
- strong oral and written communication
- designing with software
- ability to work independently or in a team
Salary & Location
The position is located in San Francisco with an annual salary of $118,000.
Professional Organizations
Joining an organization is not a requirement but can help you network and stay up to date with innovative practices in the field. A few are listed here:
- The Environmental Design Research Center
- American Society of Landscape Architects
- Architects/Designers/Planners for Social Responsibility
- US Green Building Council
- International Society of Sustainability Professionals