Design Manager (Landscape)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Landscape)

Company: AtkinsRéalis

Location: Saudi Arabia (Site Office)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Design Management / Landscape Architecture Operations

Date Posted: October 04, 2026

Experience Level: 12-15+ Years

Remote Status: Primarily On-site / Hybrid with potential for remote work outside of country for specific benefits.

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage comprehensive landscape design activities within a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) framework, ensuring adherence to client requirements and project objectives.

• Drive the integration of landscape design with other critical disciplines such as architecture, civil engineering, utilities, and MEP through rigorous coordination and clash detection processes.

• Act as a key client representative, focusing on design governance, delivery assurance, and ensuring that landscape solutions are coordinated, buildable, and compliant with all relevant standards and regulations.

• Oversee the development and implementation of sustainable landscape strategies, including planting, irrigation, grading, drainage, and the use of climate-appropriate, low-maintenance plant species.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core role is on-site in Saudi Arabia, the job description mentions "Remote work opportunities outside of country" as a benefit, suggesting a potential for hybrid arrangements or specific project assignments where remote work might be feasible, particularly concerning design review or support functions. This role is not a direct design execution role but a management and oversight function within a PMC.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all landscape design lifecycle phases, from initial concept development through detailed design and providing essential construction support.

• Conduct thorough reviews and validation of landscape design submissions from external consultants, ensuring they meet project scope, quality benchmarks, and all applicable regulatory standards.

• Develop, meticulously monitor, and manage the landscape design program, ensuring it remains seamlessly aligned with overarching project timelines and critical path milestones.

• Provide expert technical input on all facets of landscape design, including sophisticated planting strategies, efficient irrigation systems, precise grading and drainage plans, and durable hardscape elements.

• Assess and ensure the functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic quality of landscape concepts, with a particular focus on utilizing native, climate-appropriate, and low-maintenance plant species.

• Evaluate potential environmental impacts, soil conditions, hydrological factors, and the long-term maintainability of proposed landscape designs to ensure ecological and operational viability.

• Verify the implementation of advanced sustainable design solutions, with a strong emphasis on water efficiency, green infrastructure integration, and minimal environmental footprint.

• Engage proactively with clients, regulatory authorities, and other key stakeholders to secure necessary design approvals and ensure ongoing compliance throughout the project lifecycle.

• Participate actively in technical design meetings with consultants and contractors, facilitating the prompt resolution of design-related issues and challenges.

• Contribute to comprehensive project reporting by providing timely and accurate updates on landscape design progress, identifying potential risks, and proposing mitigation strategies.

• Manage and assess the impact of design changes on project cost, schedule, and overall quality, actively supporting value engineering initiatives for landscape elements without compromising the integrity of the design intent.

• Proactively identify and mitigate design-related risks and technical challenges that could impact project delivery or long-term performance.

• Provide critical technical support during the construction phases, including timely responses to Requests for Information (RFIs) and meticulous review of contractor submittals such as shop drawings.

• Oversee landscape implementation on-site to guarantee that the original design intent is accurately maintained and executed to the highest standards.

• Monitor site progress specifically related to landscaping activities and coordinate effectively with site supervision teams to ensure seamless execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level role focused on oversight, coordination, and quality assurance within a PMC structure, rather than hands-on design creation. The emphasis on "client representative," "governance," "delivery assurance," and "review" highlights the managerial and strategic aspects of the position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture or a closely related field. Experience:

• A minimum of 12–15+ years of progressive experience in landscape architecture and design management.

• Demonstrated success in Project Management Consultancy (PMC), consultancy environments, or on large-scale infrastructure and urban development projects.

• Proven track record of managing multidisciplinary design coordination and ensuring design integration across various engineering and architectural disciplines. Required Skills:

• Expertise in Landscape Design principles, urban design, and best practices in planting strategies, irrigation, grading, and drainage.

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities to effectively guide and motivate design teams and consultants.

• Exceptional coordination and stakeholder management abilities, with a capacity to liaise effectively with clients, authorities, and project teams.

• Proficiency in industry-standard design and coordination tools, including AutoCAD, BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, and GIS (Geographic Information System).

• Comprehensive understanding of international standards, codes, and specific authority requirements relevant to landscape design and construction in the region.

• Robust problem-solving and decision-making skills to address complex design challenges and ensure project success.

• Ability to balance competing priorities of design quality, cost-effectiveness, and constructability.

• Demonstrated experience in value engineering for landscape elements while maintaining design integrity and quality.

• Familiarity with sustainable design practices, including water efficiency, green infrastructure, and the selection of appropriate plant species. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with advanced BIM coordination and clash detection software.

• Knowledge of contract administration and management within a PMC context.

• Familiarity with environmental impact assessments and mitigation strategies related to landscape projects.

• Experience in managing design changes and implementing change control processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 12-15+ years, coupled with the emphasis on PMC and design management, positions this as a senior role. The specific mention of AutoCAD, BIM, and GIS indicates a need for technical understanding, even if the primary function is management and oversight rather than direct drafting. The role requires a strong understanding of regulatory compliance within Saudi Arabia.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a history of successfully managed landscape design projects from concept to completion, showcasing your role in oversight and coordination.

• Provide examples of how you have integrated landscape design with other engineering disciplines, highlighting coordination methodologies and outcomes.

• Present case studies that illustrate your approach to ensuring design quality, constructability, and compliance with regulatory standards in complex projects.

• Include evidence of your experience in reviewing consultant submissions and providing feedback that leads to improved design outcomes and risk mitigation.

• Showcase examples of sustainable landscape design implementations and your role in verifying their effectiveness and long-term viability. Process Documentation:

• Document your methodologies for developing, monitoring, and managing design programs and schedules, with a focus on landscape-specific timelines.

• Outline your approach to conducting design reviews, including key checklists, stakeholder involvement, and decision-making processes for landscape elements.

• Illustrate your process for responding to RFIs and reviewing shop drawings during the construction phase, emphasizing timely and accurate technical support.

• Describe your system for tracking design changes, assessing their impact on project constraints (cost, schedule, quality), and supporting value engineering exercises.

• Detail your approach to risk identification and mitigation specifically within the landscape design and construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role in a PMC, the portfolio should emphasize project oversight, coordination, review, and problem-solving rather than solely showcasing personal design work. The focus should be on the candidate's ability to manage external design consultants and ensure project success through robust processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the senior experience level (12-15+ years), the location (Saudi Arabia), and the industry (large-scale infrastructure/urban development within a PMC), a competitive tax-free salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers in Saudi Arabia with this experience, the estimated annual salary range could be between SAR 300,000 to SAR 550,000 (approximately USD 80,000 to USD 147,000). This range can vary significantly based on specific project scope, company policies, and the candidate's precise qualifications and negotiation. Benefits:

• Tax-free salary, offering significant financial advantage.

• Comprehensive life insurance coverage for peace of mind.

• Premium medical insurance for the employee and dependents, ensuring access to quality healthcare.

• Generous annual leave balance, providing ample time for rest and personal pursuits.

• Flexible and hybrid work solutions, promoting work-life balance.

• Remote work opportunities outside of the country (as a benefit, not primary work arrangement), offering flexibility for specific roles or circumstances.

• Company gratuity scheme, contributing to long-term financial security.

• Discretionary bonus program, rewarding performance and contribution.

• Annual flight contribution, assisting with travel expenses.

• Relocation assistance, easing the transition to Saudi Arabia.

• Transportation and housing allowances (specifically mentioned as available for remote work locations, but likely part of a broader compensation package for on-site roles as well).

• Employee Wellbeing Program: 24/7 access to specialists in finance, legal matters, family care, personal health, fitness, and nutrition, supporting holistic employee well-being. Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, aligning with standard full-time employment. The mention of "Flexible and hybrid work solutions" suggests potential for some flexibility in scheduling, though core hours will likely be required for team coordination and site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data for similar senior engineering and design management roles in Saudi Arabia from reputable sources (e.g., industry salary surveys, recruitment agency reports). The benefits package is extensive and reflects typical offerings for expatriate professionals in the region, particularly within large engineering consultancies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Services, Nuclear, and Infrastructure Development. AtkinsRéalis operates globally, providing a wide range of engineering and technical services across sectors like infrastructure, energy, and defense. This specific role is within their Project Management Consultancy (PMC) division, likely serving major clients in Saudi Arabia on large-scale urban development or infrastructure projects.

Company Size: AtkinsRéalis is a large, multinational organization, typically employing tens of thousands of people worldwide. This scale means access to extensive resources, global expertise, and diverse career opportunities, but also implies structured processes and corporate governance.

Founded: AtkinsRéalis has a long history, with its origins tracing back to the mid-20th century through various mergers and acquisitions. This longevity suggests stability, established methodologies, and a deep understanding of the engineering and construction sectors.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a PMC structure, meaning the team is likely composed of project managers, discipline leads (like this Design Manager), engineers, construction supervisors, and administrative staff, all focused on overseeing projects on behalf of the client.

• Reporting is likely hierarchical, with the Design Manager reporting to a Project Director or Lead Project Manager, and in turn, managing external landscape design consultants.

• Cross-functional collaboration is paramount, requiring constant interaction with architectural, civil, MEP, infrastructure, and utility design leads, as well as client representatives and regulatory bodies. Methodology:

• The company likely employs robust project management methodologies, possibly incorporating principles from PRINCE2, PMI, or client-specific frameworks.

• Emphasis will be placed on data-driven decision-making, with performance metrics, design reviews, and risk assessments forming the basis for progress tracking and issue resolution.

• Workflow optimization is key in a PMC environment; ensuring efficient review processes, clear communication channels, and timely approvals are critical to project success.

Company Website: https://www.atkinsrealis.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The PMC context is crucial for understanding this role. AtkinsRéalis acts as an extension of the client's team, managing and overseeing the work of other consultants and contractors. This requires a strong focus on governance, quality assurance, and client representation rather than direct design execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Design Management position. It requires significant experience and the ability to operate independently, manage complex external relationships, and make critical decisions regarding design quality and project delivery. It sits above individual contributor design roles and focuses on strategic oversight and assurance.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director or Senior Project Manager within the AtkinsRéalis PMC team. They will manage the relationship with external landscape design consultants, who will report on their design progress and technical matters.

Operations Impact: The role has a substantial impact on the successful delivery of large-scale infrastructure and urban development projects. Effective landscape design management ensures that the aesthetic, functional, environmental, and recreational aspects of a project meet client expectations, regulatory requirements, and contribute positively to the urban environment. Poor design management can lead to costly rework, delays, and failure to meet project goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Management: Progression to Project Director, Program Manager, or a similar senior leadership role within AtkinsRéalis's PMC division, managing larger scopes of work or multiple projects.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of landscape architecture for complex projects (e.g., large-scale urban regeneration, sustainable master planning, themed environments) or moving into broader design coordination roles.

• Business Development: Transitioning into roles that involve client relationship management, proposal development, and securing new PMC projects for AtkinsRéalis.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on projects in other regions where AtkinsRéalis operates, leveraging international experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Design Manager in a PMC typically leads towards broader project leadership or specialization in managing complex design portfolios. The emphasis on client representation and delivery assurance provides a strong foundation for advancing into client-facing or strategic management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a "Site Office" in Saudi Arabia, indicating a dedicated project site office environment. This type of office is typically functional and focused on project delivery, often co-located with construction activities. It may also involve periods of hybrid work or time spent in a corporate office, depending on project needs and company policy.

Office Location(s): Saudi Arabia (Site Office). Specific project locations within Saudi Arabia will vary, but the base will be within the Kingdom.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be collaborative, with desks for project management and design teams. Proximity to site operations is probable.

• Access to standard office technology, project management software, and potentially design software licenses will be provided. The focus will be on tools that support coordination, communication, and reporting.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with multidisciplinary teams, site engineers, contractors, and client representatives are frequent, fostering a dynamic and collaborative work environment.

Work Schedule: Standard working hours (likely 40 hours/week) are expected, with potential for overtime during critical project phases. The mention of flexible and hybrid work solutions may allow for some adjustment to the daily schedule, but project demands and site presence will be primary drivers.

📝 Enhancement Note: A "Site Office" environment implies a focus on active project delivery. While corporate benefits like hybrid work are mentioned, the day-to-day reality will involve close proximity to project activities and a structured, professional office setting common in large-scale construction and development projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess experience against the core requirements, focusing on PMC, landscape design management, and multidisciplinary coordination.

• Technical Interview: Likely with a senior project manager or technical lead. Expect questions on your approach to design management, consultant oversight, risk mitigation, sustainability integration, and your experience with specific software like AutoCAD, BIM, and GIS. You will be asked to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: May involve meeting with a hiring manager or HR representative to assess leadership style, communication skills, ability to work within a PMC framework, and alignment with AtkinsRéalis's values and the project's cultural context.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a Director or senior executive, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and overall suitability for the role and the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Management: Curate examples that showcase your management of landscape design processes, rather than just your personal design work. Highlight projects where you oversaw consultants, managed reviews, and ensured compliance.

• Case Study Structure: For each significant project, clearly define: the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the design solutions/processes implemented, the collaborative efforts, the outcomes (especially regarding quality, cost, schedule, and sustainability), and lessons learned.

• Metrics & Impact: Quantify your achievements wherever possible. For instance, "Reduced RFI turnaround time by X%", "Ensured design compliance within Y% of budget," or "Successfully integrated Z sustainable features."

• Visuals: Include relevant diagrams, coordination drawings, site photos, and renderings that illustrate the complexity of the projects and the quality of the managed designs. Ensure clarity and conciseness.

• Software Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with AutoCAD, BIM, GIS, and any other relevant project management or collaboration tools.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like: "How would you handle a situation where a landscape consultant's design is consistently off-track regarding budget or schedule?" or "Describe your process for ensuring design integration between landscape and civil engineering teams."

• Technical Deep Dive: Be ready to discuss specific challenges in landscape design, such as managing native planting in arid climates, designing effective drainage systems, or implementing sustainable hardscape solutions.

• Client Representation: Practice articulating how you would represent the client's interests while managing external consultants, balancing their needs with technical feasibility and regulatory demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a PMC role emphasizes managerial competence, client representation, and the ability to manage external parties effectively. The portfolio should strongly reflect these aspects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for reviewing 2D drawings and understanding technical details of landscape plans.

• BIM (Building Information Modeling) Software: Proficiency in reviewing and coordinating BIM models (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) is critical for clash detection and ensuring integration with architectural and structural elements.

• GIS (Geographic Information System): Useful for understanding site context, environmental data, and large-scale planning.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar for program management, scheduling, and progress tracking.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing, sharing, and tracking project documentation (e.g., Aconex, Procore, SharePoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: For data analysis, budget tracking, and reporting.

• Power BI / Tableau (or similar): For creating dashboards and visualizing project progress, risks, and key performance indicators.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear, concise, and data-driven reports for project stakeholders and clients.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project data is managed and flows between systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools might be advantageous for streamlining review processes or communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is focused on design review, coordination, project management, and reporting. Proficiency in BIM and strong analytical skills are key differentiators.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and representing AtkinsRéalis and the client with professionalism in all interactions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where multidisciplinary teams and external consultants work together effectively towards shared project goals.

• Innovation & Excellence: Striving for excellence in design quality, sustainability, and project delivery, while being open to innovative solutions.

• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing health, safety, and environmental stewardship in all aspects of project management and design oversight.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, delivering on commitments, and ensuring accountability for design quality and project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• The role demands a highly collaborative approach, acting as a central point of coordination for landscape design. This involves proactive communication, active listening, and a willingness to mediate and problem-solve between different parties.

• A culture of constructive feedback and continuous improvement is essential, encouraging open discussion during design reviews and technical meetings to enhance project deliverables.

• Knowledge sharing practices, such as lessons learned sessions or best practice workshops, are likely encouraged to improve overall project execution and team expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: AtkinsRéalis, as a large engineering firm, will likely emphasize corporate values that align with professionalism, safety, sustainability, and excellence. The PMC context adds a layer of client-centric collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Consultants: Effectively coordinating and managing the performance of multiple external landscape design consultants with varying styles, capabilities, and contractual obligations.

• Balancing Competing Interests: Navigating the complexities of balancing client expectations, regulatory requirements, budget constraints, constructability, and aesthetic quality in landscape design.

• Arid Climate Design: Addressing the unique challenges of landscape design in Saudi Arabia, such as water scarcity, extreme temperatures, and soil conditions, requiring innovative and sustainable solutions.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Ensuring that design teams are utilizing current and appropriate design, coordination, and project management technologies effectively.

• Ensuring Design Intent on Site: Overseeing the construction phase to ensure that the approved design intent is accurately translated into the built environment, especially concerning planting and finishes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Opportunities to gain certifications or training in advanced project management methodologies relevant to large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Sustainable Design Expertise: Deepening knowledge in sustainable landscape design, water-wise landscaping, and green infrastructure relevant to arid environments.

• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs within AtkinsRéalis to enhance management and team-building skills.

• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Gaining broader understanding of architectural, civil, and infrastructure design principles through close collaboration.

• International Exposure: Potential to work on diverse projects across different regions, broadening professional experience and cultural understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to managing large, complex projects in a specific regional context. The growth opportunities are aligned with advancing within a global engineering firm and specializing in high-impact infrastructure development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a landscape design consultant who is consistently missing deadlines or not meeting quality standards."

• "How do you ensure effective integration between landscape design and civil engineering for grading and drainage plans on a large-scale project?"

• "Walk me through a complex design challenge you faced on a previous project and how you resolved it, focusing on the processes you used."

• "What are the key considerations for sustainable landscape design in an arid climate like Saudi Arabia, and how would you ensure these are implemented?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AtkinsRéalis and our work in the Middle East?"

• "How do you align with our company's values of integrity, collaboration, and sustainability?"

• "Describe your experience working within a Project Management Consultancy framework and acting as a client representative."

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among diverse project teams and external consultants?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Management Role: Clearly articulate your responsibilities and contributions in each presented project, emphasizing oversight, coordination, and problem-solving.

• Process-Oriented Storytelling: For each case study, detail the process you followed: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure, specifically related to landscape design management.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics to demonstrate the value you brought, such as improvements in efficiency, cost savings, quality enhancements, or risk reduction.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, professional visuals (drawings, renderings, site photos) to illustrate the scale and complexity of the projects. Be prepared to explain specific design elements and how they were managed.

• Focus on PMC Context: Frame your experience through the lens of a PMC, emphasizing your role in governance, assurance, and client representation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, technical oversight, problem-solving skills, and experience within a PMC environment. The ability to articulate processes and quantify impact is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager (Landscape) position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the AtkinsRéalis careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 12-15+ years of experience in design management, PMC roles, large-scale infrastructure projects, and specific landscape architecture expertise. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Management," "Landscape Architecture," "PMC," "Multidisciplinary Coordination," "AutoCAD," "BIM," and "Stakeholder Management."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in managing landscape design within a PMC setting. Prepare a concise presentation (e.g., PDF or slide deck) that clearly outlines your role, responsibilities, challenges faced, processes implemented, and project outcomes, with a strong emphasis on coordination, quality assurance, and client representation.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Review your knowledge of landscape design principles, sustainable practices, regulatory compliance in Saudi Arabia, and proficiency in relevant software (AutoCAD, BIM, GIS). Be ready to discuss specific examples from your portfolio.

• Research AtkinsRéalis: Understand the company's global presence, its PMC division's work, and its values. Familiarize yourself with major infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia and the region to better contextualize your experience.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.