First Nations Design Consultant

First Nations Design Consultant

About Arcadia

Arcadia is a leading Landscape Architecture and Urban Design practice working at the intersection of the built form and nature across Australia and New Zealand. Our work is driven by a clear purpose: to enrich Country and community, creating meaningful places that make a lasting difference in people’s lives.

We take a deeply considered approach to every project, grounded in research, collaboration and a genuine respect for the cultural and environmental significance of place. Central to this is our commitment to Designing with Country. We work alongside First Nations knowledge holders, cultural leaders and communities to ensure every project reflects authenticity, respect and connection.

Our studios are collaborative, social and energetic environments. You will be surrounded by a team of passionate, curious and talented people who care deeply about the work they do and the impact it has. We believe great outcomes come from great people working together, and we place real value on culture, learning and shared success.

About the Opportunity

This is a meaningful and influential role within our practice, shaping how Designing with Country is embedded across our projects. As a First Nations Design Consultant, you will bring cultural knowledge and guidance to inform design thinking, strengthen relationships and ensure our work is grounded in respect and authenticity.

You will work closely with our design teams, clients and communities, contributing to projects from early concept through to delivery. Your input will help uncover the deeper narrative of place and ensure that cultural knowledge is embedded in a way that is genuine, considered and impactful.

A Glimpse into Your Day

• Provide cultural design input grounded in Country, story and protocol 
• Support and lead engagement with First Nations communities in a respectful and collaborative way 
• Contribute to co-design processes that embed cultural knowledge from the outset 
• Guide project teams on Designing with Country principles and best practice 
• Prepare clear, thoughtful and culturally informed reports and recommendations 
• Collaborate across studios, contributing to a shared and evolving understanding of Country within our practice 

The Expertise You’ll Bring

• Tertiary qualifications, such as a Bachelor’s Degree in Design or Communication. 
• Strong understanding of First Nations and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural knowledge, protocols and connection to Country 
• Experience in design, planning, community engagement or a related field 
• Confidence engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, including communities, clients and project teams 
• Ability to communicate complex cultural ideas in a clear and meaningful way 
• A collaborative mindset, with the ability to guide, influence and support others 
• A genuine passion for shaping places that are respectful, inclusive and meaningful 

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

• Daily lunch and snacks 
• Employee Assistance Program for you and your immediate family 
• Annual skin checks and flu vaccinations 
• Ongoing professional development and learning opportunities 
• Studio events and a strong social culture 
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements 
• Bi-annual events, including our ski trip and end-of-year conference 

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging and Reconciliation

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported. We actively seek to create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognise the importance of increasing representation across the built environment.

If you require any adjustments throughout the recruitment process, we encourage you to let us know.

A Note on Work Rights

To be considered for this opportunity, you must hold the legal right to live and work in Australia.