
Computational Designer (Global Digital)
Populous, Kansas City, MO, United States
Who We Are
Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together around the things they love, through experiences that capture all the senses, amplifying the atmosphere of excitement and pure joy shared in human moments.
We’ve designed and delivered some of the world’s most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to groundbreaking live music venues. Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves.
We offer the best of both worlds: the resources and impact of the design giants and the tightly knit atmosphere and growth opportunities of smaller firms.
Computational Designer Location: Kansas City
What We Offer Professional & Personal Development Programs, Summer Hours, Hybrid Schedule, On‑Site Gym (Dallas/KC), Paid Architect Licensure & Certifications Exams, Wedding Pay, Charitable Match Program, Market‑leading wellness health and welfare benefits.
Who We Are Looking For We're seeking a Computational Designer with 1‑3 years of experience in a relevant field to join our Global AI Technology team. The role requires a high level of proficiency with computational tools and a strong interest in programming (C# & Python). You will collaborate with project teams across the company, applying computational techniques to solve design challenges and enhance workflows. You will build high‑impact applications that integrate AI/ML models, data pipelines, and intuitive user interfaces.
What Your Day Could Consist Of
Collaborate in an agile development environment, prioritizing the creation of scalable, repeatable tools with broad application.
Assist in the design, development, and implementation of custom applications and services to automate tasks and enhance interoperability.
Support the development of computational tools and workflows that enable design exploration, automated analysis, and effective data management.
Work as part of a global specialist team to deliver computational solutions for both internal stakeholders and external clients at Populous.
Document, maintain, and continuously improve workflows, tools, and processes.
Promote and share new tools and workflows across global Populous studios.
Partner with project teams to understand requirements and deliver effective, fit‑for‑purpose computational solutions.
Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and innovations in computational design.
Contribute to internal and external publications, presentations, seminars, and talks related to innovation and research.
Actively participate in team discussions, workshops, and presentations to support ongoing team development.
Duties may evolve based on organizational needs and priorities.
Requirements For Success
Demonstrated passion for computational design and a strong desire to learn and grow within the field.
Solid understanding of computational thinking and the application of computational design methodologies.
Working knowledge of architectural building systems.
Ability to work iteratively across a variety of project typologies and design platforms, while supporting multiple projects simultaneously.
Familiarity with data visualization techniques and best practices.
Strong graphic, visualization, and representation skills to effectively communicate design ideas.
Excellent relationship‑building and problem‑solving skills.
Strong organizational skills with a high level of attention to detail.
Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment, including multidisciplinary teams.
Highly self‑motivated, with the ability to conduct design studies with minimal supervision.
Essential Qualifications
Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction, or a related field (postgraduate qualification is a plus).
1–3 years of professional experience in a relevant field, or academic projects demonstrating strong computational design skills.
Experience in other advanced industries—such as automotive, aerospace, defense, gaming, film, or television—is also considered.
Proficiency with 3D modeling software, including parametric and generative modeling and automation tools (e.g., Revit/Dynamo, Rhino/Grasshopper).
Awareness of emerging technologies, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and computational design, and their potential applications in architecture.
Proficiency with computational design tools such as Grasshopper, Rhino, Revit, Dynamo, or similar platforms.
Professional verbal and written communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in the AEC industry or in tools used for planning, modeling, or design collaboration.
Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python or C# is an advantage.
Experience with scripting or software development is preferred (e.g., C#, Python, or JavaScript).
Familiarity with cloud‑based technologies and data tools (e.g., SQL, Power BI, or similar) is a bonus.
Additional Details
Travel may be required.
Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits.
Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
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We’ve designed and delivered some of the world’s most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to groundbreaking live music venues. Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves.
We offer the best of both worlds: the resources and impact of the design giants and the tightly knit atmosphere and growth opportunities of smaller firms.
Computational Designer Location: Kansas City
What We Offer Professional & Personal Development Programs, Summer Hours, Hybrid Schedule, On‑Site Gym (Dallas/KC), Paid Architect Licensure & Certifications Exams, Wedding Pay, Charitable Match Program, Market‑leading wellness health and welfare benefits.
Who We Are Looking For We're seeking a Computational Designer with 1‑3 years of experience in a relevant field to join our Global AI Technology team. The role requires a high level of proficiency with computational tools and a strong interest in programming (C# & Python). You will collaborate with project teams across the company, applying computational techniques to solve design challenges and enhance workflows. You will build high‑impact applications that integrate AI/ML models, data pipelines, and intuitive user interfaces.
What Your Day Could Consist Of
Collaborate in an agile development environment, prioritizing the creation of scalable, repeatable tools with broad application.
Assist in the design, development, and implementation of custom applications and services to automate tasks and enhance interoperability.
Support the development of computational tools and workflows that enable design exploration, automated analysis, and effective data management.
Work as part of a global specialist team to deliver computational solutions for both internal stakeholders and external clients at Populous.
Document, maintain, and continuously improve workflows, tools, and processes.
Promote and share new tools and workflows across global Populous studios.
Partner with project teams to understand requirements and deliver effective, fit‑for‑purpose computational solutions.
Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and innovations in computational design.
Contribute to internal and external publications, presentations, seminars, and talks related to innovation and research.
Actively participate in team discussions, workshops, and presentations to support ongoing team development.
Duties may evolve based on organizational needs and priorities.
Requirements For Success
Demonstrated passion for computational design and a strong desire to learn and grow within the field.
Solid understanding of computational thinking and the application of computational design methodologies.
Working knowledge of architectural building systems.
Ability to work iteratively across a variety of project typologies and design platforms, while supporting multiple projects simultaneously.
Familiarity with data visualization techniques and best practices.
Strong graphic, visualization, and representation skills to effectively communicate design ideas.
Excellent relationship‑building and problem‑solving skills.
Strong organizational skills with a high level of attention to detail.
Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment, including multidisciplinary teams.
Highly self‑motivated, with the ability to conduct design studies with minimal supervision.
Essential Qualifications
Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction, or a related field (postgraduate qualification is a plus).
1–3 years of professional experience in a relevant field, or academic projects demonstrating strong computational design skills.
Experience in other advanced industries—such as automotive, aerospace, defense, gaming, film, or television—is also considered.
Proficiency with 3D modeling software, including parametric and generative modeling and automation tools (e.g., Revit/Dynamo, Rhino/Grasshopper).
Awareness of emerging technologies, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and computational design, and their potential applications in architecture.
Proficiency with computational design tools such as Grasshopper, Rhino, Revit, Dynamo, or similar platforms.
Professional verbal and written communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in the AEC industry or in tools used for planning, modeling, or design collaboration.
Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python or C# is an advantage.
Experience with scripting or software development is preferred (e.g., C#, Python, or JavaScript).
Familiarity with cloud‑based technologies and data tools (e.g., SQL, Power BI, or similar) is a bonus.
Additional Details
Travel may be required.
Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits.
Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
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