Landscape / Playscape Design Manager
Join Nido Early School and help shape inspiring outdoor learning environments for children across Australia.
At Nido, our approach to early learning is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, a belief that children are capable, curious learners who construct understanding through exploration, relationships and their surroundings. Central to this philosophy is the idea of "the environment as the third teacher", that thoughtfully designed spaces can teach, inspire and provoke wonder just as powerfully as an educator or a peer.
We're in an exciting phase of growth, building bespoke early learning centres across Australia and expanding our in-house design team. As our Landscape / Playscape Design Manager, you'll be shaping how children learn, grow and develop through the outdoor spaces you create. Every yard, garden and play space you design becomes part of a child's daily curriculum.
You'll provide expert guidance across the full project lifecycle, from concept through to construction, working closely with educators, service leaders, developers and external partners and consultants. You'll also ensure all designs are compliant, sustainable, inclusive and aligned with contemporary early childhood best practice.
You'll be part of a dynamic New Services Team at the heart of our national expansion, contributing to our commitment to delivering high-quality educational care and exceptional learning environments.
The role
- Lead and coordinate external landscape architects, developers and contractors to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and in line with Nido's design vision.
- Lead the conceptualisation and development of innovative outdoor learning environments tailored to early childhood pedagogy and developmental needs, grounded in our belief in the environment as the third teacher.
- Manage the full lifecycle of landscape projects, from concept and design through to construction, defect resolution and project completion.
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously (10+ at various stages), ensuring priorities, timelines and deliverables are met while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Monitor budgets, manage site issues and oversee quality throughout the build to ensure landscape outcomes meet design intent and project standards.
- Ensure designs are safe, sustainable and compliant with Australian Standards and NQF Standards.
- Conduct site visits and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
- Support Office role based in either Sydney or Melbourne.
- Hybrid role (3-4 days in the support office).
About you
- Degree in Landscape Architecture (or related discipline)
- AILA registration (or eligibility)
- Strong landscape architecture experience with a portfolio of built projects
- Experience designing play spaces, education environments or public spaces
- Strong understanding of relevant regulatory frameworks, Australian regulations and design standards, safety standards, and accessibility requirements
- Some proficiency with 3D design tools is desirable
- Current Working with Children Check or ability to obtain
- Valid driver's license
- Flexibility to travel within Australia
Why Nido?
- Be part of a national organisation in an exciting growth phase, partnering with developers to build bespoke early learning centres across Australia
- Join a design team that's expanding to meet that growth, with real scope to shape Nido's design philosophy and standards from the ground up
- Work on meaningful projects that bring "the environment as the third teacher" to life and positively impact how children learn
- Collaborative and supportive team culture
- Opportunity to influence the design of new early learning services nationwide
Every day matters. You matter.
If you are ready to contribute your skills to a dynamic team and play a crucial role in maintaining our commitment to delivering high quality learning environments,
APPLY NOW!
Nido Early School is a Child Safe Organisation. We have a zero tolerance for child abuse and are committed to the safety, participation and empowerment of all children. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.
