Computational Designer

HDR•Chicago, IL

1d•$78,858 - $143,429

About The Position

HDR's Computational Designer is responsible for providing specialized computational design expertise in support of architectural design and project delivery. The Computational Designer applies advanced computational methods to develop digital tools, parametric workflows, automation systems and data-driven design processes that support project teams across multiple phases of architectural practice.

Requirements

A Master's Degree in Architecture or a closely related field and 2 years of experience in architecture or computational design or a Bachelor's Degree in Architecture or a closely related field and 5 years of experience in architecture or computational design.
Required experience may include professional, internship, research, or teaching experience and must include experience in: parametric and computational design methodologies, including generative and iterative design workflows; BIM modeling, coordination and design documentation; scripting and automation using Python and computational design platforms; and digital fabrication workflows (3D printing, laser cutting, CNC).
Must also be proficient in the following tools/software: Autodesk Revit; Rhinoceros 3D; Rhino.Inside.Revit; Grasshopper; Dynamo; AutoCAD; Python; and MS Excel.

Responsibilities

Applying advanced computational design methodologies to architectural and infrastructure projects, including parametric modeling, generative design workflows and algorithmic design exploration.
Developing and implementing custom computational tools, scripts and automation workflows to support architectural design, building analysis and BIM-based production processes.
Creating parametric models and configurable design systems using Rhinoceros, Rhino Inside and Grasshopper to support iterative design development, facade studies and design option generation.
Developing automation workflows and custom scripts in Python to improve BIM productivity, streamline modeling tasks, reduce manual drafting effort and enhance data extraction and reporting.
Integrating computational workflows with BIM platforms (including Revit and ACC) to support model coordination, design documentation and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Supporting architectural teams by performing computational analysis and data-driven evaluation of design alternatives, including design optimization, performance-based iterations and workflow prototyping.
Producing computationally driven design deliverables and visualizations, including analytical diagrams, parametric design studies and 3D modeling outputs.
Evaluating and applying architectural techniques and procedures to ensure computational tools align with project standards, design intent and documentation requirements.
Collaborating with architects, project designers, and project managers to define computational strategies, identify workflow opportunities and provide technical direction for implementation.
Assisting in the preparation of architectural construction documents by applying computational methods to improve accuracy, consistency and efficiency of BIM deliverables.
Developing structured project data workflows, including extracting, organizing, and visualizing model information using Power BI and other data platforms to support project reporting and design decision-making.
Coordinating with internal teams to recommend and implement computational best practices, including digital design standards, reusable scripts, and scalable parametric toolsets.