Become a Landscape Architect for the National Mall and Memorial Parks
Are you looking to make a lasting impact on the American landscape? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently seeking a talented and detail-oriented Landscape Architect to join our team in Washington, D.C. This role offers the unique opportunity to manage high-profile projects that preserve the integrity and beauty of our nation’s most cherished monuments.
Job Responsibilities
As a Landscape Architect, you will lead and support multidisciplinary teams throughout the life cycle of park projects. Key responsibilities include:
- Project Leadership: Guiding projects from initial design and feasibility studies through construction completion.
- Contract Management: Writing scopes of work, evaluating government cost estimates, and enforcing contract administration.
- Infrastructure Improvement: Analyzing existing systems for deficiencies and proposing sustainable improvements.
- Collaboration: Coordinating with various stakeholders and internal staff to ensure project compliance with budget, schedule, and quality standards.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Landscape Architecture or Design |
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized GS-11 equivalent work |
| Citizenship | Required (United States) |
| Security Level | Low Risk / Non-sensitive |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must demonstrate a solid foundation in landscape architecture. You must hold a degree in the field or show an equivalent combination of professional experience. Candidates should be comfortable navigating federal hiring procedures, including meeting time-in-grade requirements if currently employed in the federal sector.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $102,415 to $133,142 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Working for the Department of the Interior provides access to a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Robust health and life insurance options.
- Federal retirement planning and pension benefits.
- Generous annual and sick leave accruals.
- Telework flexibility to support work-life balance.
Application Tips
Success in your application begins with following directions. Ensure your resume highlights your specialized experience—specifically managing large construction or infrastructure projects. Do not exceed the two-page limit, as longer resumes will automatically be rejected. Always double-check your uploaded documents to confirm they are in the correct format.
If you are a dedicated professional ready to apply your design skills to some of the most historic sites in the country, we invite you to apply. This position is a cornerstone for maintaining the National Mall for generations to come.
Why This Landscape Architect Job Matters
Shape the future of iconic American landscapes as a Landscape Architect for the National Mall and Memorial Parks—where your vision meets history.
Landscape Architect Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a skilled Landscape Architect to join the Professional Services Division at the National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington, D.C. In this role, you will lead and support the lifecycle of high-visibility design and construction projects, ensuring they align with the agency's mission, budget, and quality standards. This is a unique opportunity to contribute your technical expertise to the preservation and development of some of the nation’s most significant sites.
Requirements for Landscape Architect
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Must meet time-in-grade requirements (for federal applicants).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government charge card.
- Completion of background investigation and favorable adjudication.
- Degree in landscape architecture or landscape design (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent).
- Proficiency in project lifecycle management, including budget, scope, and contract administration.
Preferred Qualifications for Landscape Architect
- Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-phased civic infrastructure or construction projects.
- Strong proficiency in AutoCAD and other design software suites.
- Expertise in coordinating with interdisciplinary teams and diverse project stakeholders.
- Experience in writing scopes of work and developing government cost estimates.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Telework opportunities (subject to supervisory approval).
- ✓Uniform allowance for field-related duties.
- ✓Professional development and career growth within the Department of the Interior.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
💡 How to Apply Landscape Architect Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Landscape Architect Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Prepare your resume (maximum 2 pages, 10-point font minimum).
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50 forms and academic transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package via the agency link before the deadline.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJobs account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly states 'full-time' or 'part-time' with hours worked per week for every position.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and not Adobe portfolios.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, include a written explanation.
- Focus your resume on specialized experience rather than general drafting or horticultural work.
- Use the provided tool on the agency site to preview the questionnaire before beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this role has been identified as suitable for telework, subject to approval by your supervisor.
What is the maximum page length for the resume?
Your resume must not exceed two single-sided pages. Documents longer than this will not be accepted.
Does the position require a security clearance?
While a standard background investigation is required, a formal security clearance is not mandatory for this role.
What is the primary software used?
*A: Proficiency in AutoCAD is essential for daily design and project reporting.*
Do I need a professional license?
*A: Please refer to the specific educational requirements listed in the vacancy announcement, as a degree in the field is mandatory.*
Job from National Park Service
The National Mall and Memorial Parks division of the National Park Service manages some of the most iconic sites in the United States. Our mission is to maintain these spaces for the public good, ensuring that they remain centers of history, reflection, and community. Working here means joining a team dedicated to excellence in stewardship, preservation, and visitor engagement.