Landscape Designer I - 2026 Graduate

LANDSCAPE DESIGNER I - 2026 GRADUATE

Location: Kansas City, MO

Interviews will begin on a rolling basis starting in January. Applications will close when positions are filled up or March 13th, whichever occurs first. Please visit poplulous.com/join to learn more about our Americas Internship Program, our process and FAQ.

Who We Are:

We design places where people love to be together.

Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together around the things they love, through experiences that capture all the senses, amplifying the atmosphere of excitement and pure joy shared in human moments.

We've designed and delivered some of the world's most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to ground-breaking live music venues. Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves. We offer the best of both worlds: the resources and impact of the design giants and the tightly knit atmosphere and growth opportunities of smaller firms.

What We Offer:

Professional & Personal Development Programs + Summer Hours + Hybrid Schedule + Paid Licensure & Certifications Exams + Wedding Pay + Charitable Match Program + Market Leading Wellness Health and Welfare Benefits.

Who We Are Looking For:

We are seeking May 2026 graduates for a full-time entry-level design position who would be interested in joining Populous. We are seeking students that are passionate about pushing the threshold of design and can work in the Kansas City office.

What Your Day Could Consist Of:

• Conceptualization and development of design ideas, generate diagrams, digital models and provide production work for numerous landscape project types.
• Collaboratively reviewing and critiquing early phase design concepts.
• Production of design development and construction documents models and construction details and drawings.
• Research and development projects as may be required by the office.
• Preparation of design presentations to clients, communities and other pertinent stakeholders, including public agencies.
• All other duties and responsibilities as required.

Requirements for Success:

• Proficiency and working knowledge of the following design software and applications: Rhino, Sketchup, AutoCAD, ArcGIS; and expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign.
• Technical knowledge of landscape architecture site development elements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, required.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively convey information and ideas in a presentation format.
• Ability to express information verbally and in writing in a clear and accurate manner.
• Basic hand drawing and illustration skills.
• Strong communication skills, work ethic; with demonstrated efficiency, flexibility and desire to grow and work within a dynamic team environment while being able to self-manage and work independently.

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree (required) in Landscape Architecture from an accredited program, or master's degree in Landscape Architecture (preferred).

Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401k, FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits. Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

No. 1 Most Innovative Company in Architecture by Fast Company

No. 1 Firm in Cultural on Interior Design magazine's Top 100 Giants

No. 1 Architecture Firm in Cultural Facilities by BD+C

No. 1 Architecture Firm in Convention Centers by BD+C

No. 1 Architecture Firm in Performing Arts and Concert Venues by BD+C

Find us here: populous.com/join

Instagram: @WeArePopulous

X: @Populous