Computational Design Manager
Design Technology | Melbourne | Full Time
Grimshaw is an international architectural practice founded in London in 1980, with studios across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. We are known for technically thoughtful, human-centred work spanning major transport infrastructure, cultural buildings and urban masterplans. Computational Design has long been central to how we work, with our Design Technology team playing a key role in developing and embedding digital capability across the practice.
We are seeking an experienced Computational Design Manager to join our Design Technology team in Australia, based in either Sydney or Melbourne.
This role combines hands-on project involvement with technical leadership, capability development, and strategic contribution. As a key member of the ANZ Design Technology team, you will champion Computational Design across the region, helping project teams apply advanced digital workflows, automation, and AI-enabled processes while supporting the continued growth and maturity of the discipline.
Working closely with project teams, regional BIM leadership, specialist teams, and the wider global Design Technology team, you will identify opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and digital transformation, strengthen Computational Design capability across the region, and contribute to the development of future-focused workflows, standards, and tools.
The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise, practical project experience, leadership capability, and the ability to build relationships, influence teams, and drive meaningful adoption of Computational Design across a diverse range of projects.
WHAT THE ROLE INVOLVES
Project Delivery & Technical Leadership
- Lead the application of Computational Design across all project stages
- Develop and implement computational workflows that enhance design exploration, analysis, automation, and project delivery
- Advise project teams on where Computational Design, automation, and AI can add value and improve project outcomes
- Identify opportunities for workflow optimisation, efficiency gains, and digital innovation across projects
- Provide technical leadership on Computational Design methodologies, workflows, tools, and best practices
- Champion the responsible adoption of emerging technologies, including Generative AI, where appropriate
- Collaborate with BIM, Sustainability, CGI, and IT teams to develop integrated digital workflows
Capability Development & Team Leadership
- Champion Computational Design capability across the ANZ region
- Mentor and support Computational Design specialists and project teams
- Coordinate Computational Design resources and project support across the region
- Deliver training, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and capability development
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning
Standards, Strategy & Practice Development
- Maintain and evolve regional Computational Design standards, workflows, libraries, and best practices
- Align regional initiatives with global Design Technology objectives and standards
- Contribute to regional Design Technology strategy and capability development
- Work closely with regional BIM leadership and global DT teams to identify priorities, opportunities, and capability gaps
- Evaluate emerging technologies and define appropriate adoption pathways
- Contribute to global standards, tools, resources, and knowledge libraries
- Drive research, innovation, and continuous improvement initiatives across the practice
Industry Engagement
- Represent Grimshaw Design Technology through industry engagement, presentations, workshops, and knowledge-sharing activities
- Contribute to thought leadership, research, and external collaborations where appropriate
ABOUT YOU
We are looking for someone with strong Computational Design experience, a passion for innovation, and a genuine interest in helping others succeed. You will be equally comfortable contributing technically to projects and helping shape the future direction of Computational Design within the region.
You Will Need
- Advanced proficiency in Rhino and Grasshopper
- A degree in Architecture, Engineering, Computational Design, Architectural Technology, Computer Science, or a related discipline
- Significant experience applying Computational Design within professional practice
- Strong programming skills, including Python and at least one additional language such as C#, JavaScript, or similar
- Experience developing custom tools, workflows, automation solutions, and digital products
- Familiarity with Generative AI tools and their application within design practice
- Experience leading or mentoring small teams and supporting the development of others
- Strong communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills
It Would Be Great If You Also Have
- Knowledge of Revit, Dynamo, Rhino.Inside Revit, and related interoperability workflows
- Experience developing standards, frameworks, or best-practice guidance
- Experience contributing to wider digital transformation, innovation, or Design Technology initiatives
- Experience working with APIs, data integration, or cloud-based workflows
- Experience with machine learning, LLMs, AI agents, or AI-assisted workflow development
How You Work Matters Too
- You are collaborative, approachable, and enjoy helping others succeed
- You communicate complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
- You are proactive and able to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation
- You are comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on delivery
- You build trusted relationships and can influence teams and stakeholders effectively
- You are curious about emerging technologies and passionate about continuous learning
- You enjoy knowledge sharing and helping build capability across a wider team
Please note, for vacant job opportunities in Grimshaw Global, all applications must go through the careers page. However, if there is no vacant job opportunities, Grimshaw is constantly on the search for talent but when there is no specific job positions in the Sydney studio, CV and portfolios are always welcome.
Grimshaw is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome people from all backgrounds and recognise that to be successful, we need to create an inclusive environment where everyone can realise their potential and succeed. Any offer of employment with Grimshaw will be conditional upon you having the right to work in Australia.
If you require any adjustments to the application or interview process, please let us know.
