Landscape Architect

read this entire job description before clicking apply. if you apply without reading through to the end, it’ll show—and your application won’t make it past screening.

the real talk

this isn't just another job vacancy you blindly click apply to while scrolling linkedin during lunch.

here's what's actually happening: webeleaf is a landscape architecture firm working with clients who know quality when they see it and won't compromise on it. we work on projects where architects and interior designers actually want our input, not just our stamp. we've got a solid team doing good work, but we need someone who can lead the design function so the business can scale beyond where it is now.

this isn't a portfolio-building stepping stone. this is the role where you become the design authority.

what you'll actually own

design leadership (40%)

• final design approvals before client presentation - your name, your call
• mentor the design team without handholding; we hire adults who can think and communicate clearly.
• set the quality bar high and keep it there
• turn vague client briefs into clear design direction

project oversight (35%)

• manage multiple UHNI projects simultaneously without dropping balls or standards
• client-facing presentations where you defend your design decisions like you mean it
• coordinate with supervision team to ensure what gets built matches what you designed
• solve site challenges in real-time, not three revision rounds later

team development (15%)

• build the design team's skills so they need you less, not more
• conduct design reviews that actually improve work, not just point out problems
• create systems so good work happens without you micromanaging

strategic input (10%)

• shape webeleaf's design direction as we scale
• contribute to business development with design thinking that wins projects
• help build processes that work when we're handling 3x current project load

what makes you qualified (actually)

non-negotiables:

• 5+ years in landscape architecture, with at least 1 year leading design teams
• portfolio that makes other designers jealous - luxury residential
• software fluency: AutoCAD, SketchUp, Lumion, and whatever else gets the job done
• UAE experience preferred; understanding UHNI clients is basically required

the difference-makers:

• you've dealt with demanding clients and know how to manage expectations
• you can explain design decisions to non-designers without condescension
• you know when to push back and when to pivot
• you're comfortable with accountability - monthly KPIs, clear deliverables, actual metrics

what we're not

• going to pretend every day is amazing. some days are hard, and that's fine
• interested in hand-holding or managing up
• the kind of office where you need three meetings to make one decision
• going to accept "that's not my job" as a complete sentence

what we actually are

• own it fully – your projects, your problems, your solutions
• talk early, talk often – no surprises, no ghosting, no "i thought you knew"
• push your edge – comfortable is boring; we're here to grow
• kind always, soft not always – direct feedback delivered with respect

the practical stuff

• competitive salary based on experience (we'll discuss specifics when you're serious)
• 9am-6pm studio hours. work-life balance matters here
• in-office role in dubai + site visits
• minimum 2-year commitment expected; we're building something, not filling a gap

how to apply

send your portfolio and a brief email explaining:

• your best design decision under client pressure
• why you want this role, not just a role

no cover letter templates. no AI-generated enthusiasm. just tell us why you're the right fit in your own words.

applications without portfolios will be deleted unread.

please send your portfolio to hello@webeleaf.me

Job Type: Full-time

Application Question(s):

• have you worked on luxury residential landscape projects in the UAE?
• Do you have a valid driver's license?
• have you attached your portfolio with this application to hello@webeleaf.me?
• how many years of experience do you have leading landscape design teams?
• what is your expected salary?