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Computational Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Computational Designer Senior

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$102K - $110K/yr

Lead project-specific computational scopes from concept through documentation, aligning automation efforts with design goals, schedule, and BIM execution plans. * Architect end-to-end workflows that ...

WHO YOU'LL WORK WITH We are seeking a Lead Computational Designer to join the Footwear Digital Design Studio within Nike's Innovation Team. The Digital Design Studio, part of the Advanced Digital ...

$139K - $209K/yr

Principal Scientist, Computational Designer (Biologics & Peptides) We are seeking a Computational Designer to advance our biologics and peptide discovery programs through data-driven molecular design ...

We are looking for an experience and self-motivated computational designer to join the product team. You will work on new and existing product lines using our proprietary software and hardware ...

Computational Design

Medford, MA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We are looking for an experience and self-motivated computational designer to join the product team. You will work on new and existing product lines using our proprietary software and hardware ...

Computational Protein Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $29.50/hr

Computational Protein Designer The opportunity We are seeking a Computational Protein Design Scientist to join our team working at the interface of generative AI and synthetic biology. Working ...

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How much do computational designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for computational designer in the United States is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the US, high-paying roles for computational designers or related fields often include senior positions such as lead computational designers, design directors, or specialized consultants in architecture, engineering, or software development. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills in programming, parametric design tools, and a strong portfolio, with salaries reaching or exceeding $300,000 annually in large firms or specialized industries.

What is a Computational Designer job?

A Computational Designer uses algorithms, parametric modeling, and coding to generate and optimize design solutions. They work at the intersection of design, engineering, and technology, leveraging tools like Python, Grasshopper, or Dynamo to automate processes and create complex geometries. This role is common in architecture, product design, and digital fabrication, where efficiency and innovation are key.

What are the main challenges a Computational Designer might face in their day-to-day work?

Computational Designers often face the challenge of translating conceptual design ideas into workable digital models that can be efficiently fabricated or integrated into real-world projects. They may need to constantly update their skills to keep up with evolving software and emerging technologies in the field. Balancing creative vision with practical constraints, such as material limitations or project budgets, can also be demanding. However, these challenges are also what make the role dynamic and provide opportunities for continual learning and innovation.

Which 3 jobs will survive AI?

Computational designers are likely to continue thriving as their roles require creativity, complex problem-solving, and understanding of design principles that AI cannot fully replicate. Jobs that involve strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and hands-on craftsmanship, such as architects, engineers, and specialized technical roles, are also expected to persist. These positions often require human judgment, adaptability, and expertise beyond current AI capabilities.

What is a computational designer job description?

A computational designer develops digital tools, algorithms, and parametric models to inform and optimize design processes in architecture, engineering, or product development. They often use software such as Rhino, Grasshopper, or Dynamo and combine skills in programming, geometry, and design thinking to create innovative solutions. The role may require knowledge of scripting languages like Python or C# and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

Is Computational Design an in demand career?

Computational designers are increasingly in demand across architecture, engineering, and product design industries due to their skills in programming, parametric modeling, and digital fabrication. The role often requires proficiency in tools like Rhino, Grasshopper, or Dynamo, and job growth is driven by the adoption of automation and data-driven design processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Computational Designer position, and why are they important?

A successful Computational Designer typically holds a degree in architecture, engineering, or design with strong proficiency in computational modeling, algorithmic thinking, and digital fabrication. Expertise with tools such as Rhino, Grasshopper, Autodesk Revit, and proficiency in scripting languages like Python or C# are highly valued, as are certifications in relevant software. Strong collaboration skills, creativity, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly are vital soft skills. These qualities enable Computational Designers to effectively tackle complex design challenges, innovate processes, and contribute meaningfully to multidisciplinary teams.

More about Computational Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Computational Designer jobs? Cities with the most Computational Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Computational Designer jobs? The most popular types of Computational Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Computational Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Computational Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Computational Designer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 66% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 32% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,320 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Computational Designer Senior

Computational Designer Senior

HDR

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$102K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 375 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
Responsibilities
  • Lead project-specific computational scopes from concept through documentation, aligning automation efforts with design goals, schedule, and BIM execution plans.
  • Architect end-to-end workflows that combine geometry generation, data capture, and visualization to support decision-making.
  • Independently develop and evaluate alternative concepts using parametric workflows; summarize tradeoffs (cost/quantity, performance, constructability) for decision-makers.
  • Prepare clear diagrams, dashboards, and interactive visuals for client presentations, internal critiques, and agency reviews to communicate options and impacts.
  • Partner with Project Managers and Design Leaders to identify where computation will create the most value and propose solutions.
  • Promote scalable reuse of validated tools across studios via standard practices and knowledge transfer.
  • Participate in client work sessions or interviews to demonstrate technical capabilities.
  • Perform other duties as needed.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Professional degree (M.Arch) or a closely related master's in architecture, design, or computing.
  • Experience integrating analysis engines (Ladybug/Honeybee, energy or daylight tools), geometry APIs, or cloud/compute services.
  • Experience presenting internally or externally on design technology topics.
  • Familiarity with web-based delivery of tools (e.g., ShapeDiver, Speckle apps, custom dashboards).
  • Experience in complex building types (healthcare, science/tech, higher ed) where parametric planning adds value.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a closely related field.
  • Minimum of 6 years of experience in architecture/computational design, with a portfolio of built or real project applications.
  • High proficiency in Rhino/Grasshopper and Revit/Dynamo, including custom component creation, data trees, and parametric best practices.
  • Scripting capability in Python or C# to extend visual programming tools or automate repetitive modeling tasks.
  • Strong understanding of the architectural design process (SD through CD) and how to insert computational tools without disrupting delivery.
  • Experience coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and BIM managers.
  • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain complex tools to non-technical users.
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant in our employee-owned culture.

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917