Landscape Architect

The Landscape Architect evaluates, designs and oversees the construction of site improvement projects supporting the operation of the Park District.  In support of the mission of Cleveland Metroparks, existing structures are managed with careful attention to sustainability and new improvements are constructed with dedication to high quality and “green” principles.

Essential Functions:

1. Assists the Chief Planning and Design Officer on matters relating to preparation of capital improvement budgets, developing project work plans and schedules, and developing near and long term infrastructure needs.
2. Inspects and evaluates Cleveland Metroparks structures and facilities for soundness, code compliance and required major maintenance
3. Prepares reports of facility conditions and recommends to the Chief Planning and Design Officer prioritized improvements
4. Assists with the management of professional service and construction contracts.
1. Prepares and reviews of requests for qualifications, requests for proposals and agreements for professional services.
2. Oversee consultants to coordinate design and review construction documents.
3. Reviews project cost estimates and administers the bidding process.
4. Reviews consultant and contractor requests for payment
5. Prepares reports on assessments and evaluations of existing facilities and prepares preliminary designs and cost estimates for rehabilitation or replacement of facilities.
6. Prepares construction documents for permitting, bidding and construction.
7. Develops and maintains design standards for park facilities
8. Coordinates projects and documents with Cleveland Metroparks Geographic Information Systems department.
9. Administers and coordinates the permitting process, either directly for self-designed projects or indirectly through consultant permitted projects.
10. Oversees construction of facility projects.
1. Performs periodic observations of facility construction to determine compliance with contract documents.
2. Reviews contractors request for payment and supporting documentation.
3. Reviews shop drawings and submittals.
4. Conducts job meetings as necessary to maintain project schedules.
5. Prepares requests for proposals and change orders and reviews pricing.
6. Reviews claims from contractors for additional work.
7. Conducts final inspections and administers punch list process.
8. Prepares facilities and systems for handoff from construction to Cleveland Metroparks Operations
11. Coordinates assigned construction projects with appropriate government agencies and public utilities to insure compliance with regulations and permitting.
12. Oversees the LEED accreditation process for projects and facilities.
13. Supports Natural Resources Department with the management of restoration and stormwater projects.
14. Trains, schedules and supervises seasonal staff if assigned.
15. Keeps the Chief Planning and Design Officer promptly informed of key/significant issues or concerns.
16. Carries out duties and responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner to maintain a safe work environment and surrounding area for oneself, co-workers and public. Responds to hazardous situations and/or potentially unsafe conditions by taking corrective action as capable and promptly notifying supervisory personnel.
17. Updates and enhances own knowledge by involvement in continuing education for professional growth (i.e., attends relevant conferences, seminars, in-service trainings, and certification programs)
18. Provides service to Cleveland Metroparks staff in need of information regarding facilities. Answers requests from the public regarding facility issues.
19. Responsible for self-development and keeping up-to-date on current research, technology, trends and best practices.
20. Performs related duties as assigned or apparent.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, from an accredited college or university in landscape architecture, or related field.  Minimum of ten (10) years progressive experience with the design and construction of facilities, required.  Possess training in natural resources, applied ecology, watershed management, fluvial geomorphology, and/or hydrology and hydraulic processes preferred.
• Must have a good driving record (less than six (6) active points on driving records at the application stage of the hiring process) and possess a valid Ohio driver’s license.  A license to practice landscape architecture or the ability to secure a license within two years in the State of Ohio is required.  CESSWI, CPESC, and/or CPSWQ certification preferred.  River Restoration Certificate, Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner, Certified Ecological Designer preferred. 
• Extensive knowledge of federal, state and local laws and regulations pertaining to building code, plan development and construction requirements.
• Knowledge of construction cost, ability to prepare cost estimates and perform life cycle cost analysis.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles such as stormwater best management practices, energy conservation, and environmental footprint reduction.
• Understanding of the principles and practices of parks, trails, open space and recreation planning and design, and the management and protection of sensitive natural and cultural resources.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of computer aided design.
• Strong business acumen, including problem solving, vision, ability to manage multiple programs and meet deadlines, collaboration, leadership, decision making and ability to analyze diverse facts and develop clear and concise reports and recommendations.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, including employees and the general public.
• Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation with ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings.
• Ability to perform work with a high degree of accuracy and organization.
• Management skills and strong business acumen, including problem solving, vision, ability to manage multiple programs and meet deadlines, collaboration, leadership, decision making and ability to analyze diverse facts and develop clear and concise reports and recommendations.
• Ability to work cooperatively with others.
• Proficiency in software programs including all Microsoft Office programs.
• Mature professional attitude and considerable discretion, including ability to manage confidential information.
• Ability to perform with considerable independence and initiative.
• Regulatory knowledge (i.e. US Army corps Nationwide and Individual Permits, State Permitting, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans, NPDES)
• Ecological experience including specialized experience with stream assessments, stream restoration design, natural area restoration, stormwater and watershed management.

Salary:  $64,214 - $80,268 annually (Internal equity considerations and the average salary of the peer range will be reviewed/considered before making a final offer)

Work Schedule:  Monday - Friday

Filing Deadline:  Open until filled