Computational Designer

HDR; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR’s Computational Designer role focuses on providing specialized computational design expertise to support architectural design and project delivery. The role develops digital tools, parametric workflows, and data-driven design processes across project phases.

Responsibilities include creating parametric models using Rhinoceros, Grasshopper, Rhino Inside, and integrating with BIM platforms like Revit and ACC, plus Python automation for BIM productivity and data extraction and reporting to

Qualifications

• Experience with parametric design workflows and Rhino/Grasshopper.
• Proficiency in Python for automation and data extraction.
• Strong BIM coordination using Revit and ACC.
• Ability to develop data visualizations with Power BI.

Responsibilities

• Apply advanced computational design methodologies to architectural projects.
• Develop and implement custom scripts and automation workflows.
• Create parametric models and design studies to support design options.
• Integrate computational workflows with BIM platforms for model coordination.

Skills

Parametric design

Python scripting

BIM coordination

Tools

Rhino

Grasshopper

Revit

Power BI

Job description

Primary Responsibilities
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. Duties include: 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; and coordinating with internal teams to recommend and implement computational best practices, including digital design standards, reusable scripts, and scalable parametric toolsets.