Surbana Jurong Group is a global multidisciplinary consultancy with 16,500+ employees across more than 120 offices in 40+ countries. We deliver transformative solutions in landscape architecture, urban design, architecture, engineering, planning, environmental services, and program management.
Our Middle East operations continue to grow rapidly, supported by regional studios delivering landmark projects across hospitality, mixed-use, infrastructure, public realm, and environmental regeneration. At SJ, we design for impact, shaping sustainable, resilient, and people-focused environments.
About the Role:
We are seeking an accomplished Senior Associate Landscape Architect to join our growing team in Abu Dhabi. This senior leadership role requires a highly skilled professional capable of driving design excellence, leading multidisciplinary teams, and managing complex landscape projects from concept through to implementation.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong creative vision, technical expertise, and the ability to manage project delivery, client relationships, and team performance within a fast-paced, design-focused environment.
Lead and manage large-scale landscape architecture projects across residential, mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, and public realm sectors.
Oversee and manage a team of landscape architects and designers.
Develop innovative, climate-responsive design concepts tailored to the UAE’s cultural and environmental context.
Produce high-quality design documentation and ensure design excellence throughout all project stages.
Integrate sustainable strategies, water-efficient solutions, and climate-appropriate plant palettes into all projects.
Prepare and deliver design reports for Pre-Concept, Concept, Schematic, and Detailed Design stages in line with client requirements and project scope.
Coordinate with architects, engineers, planners, and environmental specialists to ensure multidisciplinary alignment.
Review, approve, and ensure accuracy of technical drawings, specifications, and schedules produced by project teams.
Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and authorities.
Present ideas, concepts, and design recommendations with clarity and confidence.
Negotiate solutions that balance design aspirations, budget constraints, and feasible implementation.
Represent the firm in project meetings, design reviews, workshops, and authority engagements.
Mentor, coach, and support the professional growth of landscape architects and designers.
Provide technical direction, quality oversight, and guidance throughout the design process.
Promote a collaborative and innovative studio culture that prioritises creativity and accountability.
Support knowledge sharing, standards development, and best-practice initiatives across the team.
Support proposal development, fee preparation, and participation in client presentations.
Contribute to the firm’s strategic growth through market awareness and competitive positioning.
Identify trends and opportunities within the UAE and wider GCC market.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture from a recognised institution.
12–15 years of professional experience, with 5–8 years in the UAE/GCC.
Professional accreditation or eligibility (IFLA, ASLA, CMLI, or equivalent) preferred.
Extensive knowledge of UAE authority regulations, guidelines, and approval processes.
Proven experience delivering complex, high-quality projects across multiple typologies and scales.
Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
Familiarity with SketchUp, Rhino, Lumion, or similar 3D modelling and visualisation tools.
Strong understanding of BIM workflows; experience with Revit is highly advantageous.
Strong knowledge of UAE climate, xeriscaping principles, and sustainable landscape strategies.
Understanding of regional plant species, irrigation systems, soils, hardscape materials, and construction methods.
All recruitment activities go through our recruitment function and currently, this role doesn’t require agency input. Please do not forward resumes directly to SJ Group employees/managers; we do not accept unsolicited resumes and are not responsible for any associated fees.
**Only successful candidates will be contacted**
At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!