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Landscape Architect
Landscape architects create useful and appealing grounds and yards. They determine where to plant flowers and trees and locate walkways and other features. They also maintain the grass and surfaces at sports’ stadiums. They frequently collaborate with civil engineers, surveyors, and architects when determining where to build roads and other construction projects. They also meet with environmental scientists to determine strategies for conserving and protecting the environment.
Landscape architects must determine the purpose of a project before beginning a new one. They must examine the surroundings near a new project site and take into consideration weather, soil, water, and other natural conditions. They also must consider where the sun is positioned during various times of the day and the location of surrounding buildings and roads.
After this is done, they prepare landscape designs, usually with Computer Aided Design (CAD) technology. They frequently utilize geographic information systems (GIS) technology to determine precise locations for flowers and other features.
After they have finished designing a project, landscape architects prepare written summaries and develop sketches or use photos to detail their plans for their clients. Architects often create video simulations, so their clients can have a visual of a completed project. They must also make expense estimates. Once this is done, they must convince their clients to accept their designs.
Once the design phases are completed, landscape architects create a list of supplies. They then supervise their employees during construction phase.
How do you prepare for this career?
Most landscape architects majored in landscape architecture or similar majors during college.
49 state legislators mandate landscape architects to pass an exam to obtain a license.
Landscape architects usually enjoy nature. They also like creative, hands on work.
Landscape architects must be effective communicators, so they can describe their thoughts and intents to their clients. It also useful for landscape architects to have good computer and writing skills.
Many landscape architects are self employed, so to be effective business owners, they must be good marketers and exercise self discipline.
Students can prepare for a career in landscape architecture by enrolling in botany and biology courses. They can develop creative skills by enrolling in art or drawing classes. Students should also take math classes, so they later make precise measurements and calculations during their careers. Students taking English classes can improve their writing skills.
How much will I earn?
During 2008, salaries for landscape architects in the 50th percentile were between $42,720-73,240 annually. Those with salaries in the lower 10th percentile made $34,230 or less while those in the upper 10th percentile made $95,420 or more annually.
How many jobs are there?
During 2008, nearly 28,000 landscape architects were employed in the United States. Nearly 20 percent of these professionals were self employed.
Landscape architects are usually found in suburb regions or larger cities.
What is the future outlook for this career?
Job growth for landscape architects is projected to increase at a quicker rate than average growth in other industries until 2016. An increasing population will result in more homes, parks, and other projects requiring landscaping.
Likewise, more people are seeking ways to improve the aesthetic quality of their yards and other open spaces, and they are constantly seeking ways to improve the environment. New environmental regulations will increase the need for landscape architects trained in environmental protection.
Although there will be more job opportunities, competition for these openings will be intense.
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