Computational Designer - LINE

HKS LINE Los Angeles is seeking an experienced Computational Designer to join our design research team.

In this position you will work as an integral part of our computational design and research group. You must have large-scale work experience with a portfolio demonstrating the capacity to describe building systems and components contributing to highly articulated geometrically complex architectural assemblies. The designer filling this role is expected to work as an integral part of our team and coordinate closely with architects from various sectors across the firm while advancing the values and standards of design inherent to each project. An ability to navigate fluidly between early conceptualization into more rigorous design development and construction is expected.

HKS | LINE prioritizes motivated candidates that communicate with optimism, are eager to learn and innovate while presenting a measured understanding of all aspects of building performance. Key areas of interest include sustainability, structural synthesis, patron experience, and constructability. In addition to these day-to-day capacities, candidates will be expected to engage with community and academic outreach through various types of public speaking.

• Carries out computational design methodologies including advanced environmental simulation workflows and generative design solutions
• Develops computational design tools and libraries for spatial analytics and generative design
• Works within team to develop advanced workflows for the control of 3D geometry, techniques for design modeling, techniques for digital fabrication and techniques for simulation and analysis
• Assists project teams as needed in all stages of design, documentation, and fabrication
• Develops new toolsets for modeling techniques, software platform interoperability and environmental simulation/analysis
• Modifies or creates implementation documents, applying standard architectural techniques and procedures and according to written and verbal specifications with general supervision
• Produces graphic presentations, 3D renderings and implementation documents
• Assists in preparing schedules and reviewing implementation documents and samples as needed
• Compiles data and performs design computations in collaboration with project team
• Collaborates on design and technical resolution and coordination for a defined portion of a project
• Works with senior designer(s) and project team(s) on conceptual designs, presentations, design development and production to deliver projects on time and within budget
• Assists in preparing client presentations and presents project design intent
• Performs product research; assists project designers with material selection and system research
• Communicates with other disciplines, vendors and contractors to incorporate information into design, project requirements and documents as needed
• Understands industry standard construction techniques, building regulations and engineering principles to apply to project plans
• Collaborates on the development of design throughout appropriate phases of the project
• May participate in project proposals to develop design solutions
• Supports design effort and client presentations to develop client relationships
• May support research of code and zoning requirements
• Assists in the research of material requirements and costs for projects
• Prepares presentation/design drawings and may build models for client/project team review
• Coordinates with consultants, contractors and regulatory agencies to meet overall project objectives
• Collaborate to resolve complex design issues with innovative and practical solutions
• Works with team to manage client expectations, team communication and consultant coordination
• May attend on-site visits, field reviews and client and/or project meetings and documents these visits as appropriate
• Provides guidance and direction to entry-level staff as appropriate
• Participates in team meetings to discuss project issues, design and technical issues and coordination with other disciplines
• Promotes newly developed workflows and toolsets across HKS studios
• Seeks leadership opportunities by providing direction and feedback to team members and collaborating with team leaders
• Fosters and maintains a collaborative professional working relationship with the project team
• Develops and tests new toolsets for modeling technique, software platform interoperability, and develops and tests workflows and methodologies for environmental simulation/analysis
• Travel may be required

• Accredited professional degree in Architecture or related field
• Architectural registration strongly preferred
• Typically 3+ years of experience
• Advanced knowledge in 3D modeling in a variety of software platforms such as Revit, Rhino, Grasshopper, etc. preferred
• Experience with Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign graphic software preferred
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite preferred
• Knowledge of one or more of the following programming languages: Python, C#, C++, TypeScript
• Knowledge of computational design methodologies such as development of advanced environmental simulation workflows and generative design solutions
• Working knowledge of advanced 3D printing and additive manufacturing
• Understanding of the processes of design, fabrication and construction of complex projects and their impact on the built environment
• Knowledge of sustainability and integrated design guidelines
• Strong graphic, visualization and representation skills to communicate design ideas
• Ability to work iteratively across a variety of project typologies and among multiple BIM platforms
• Ability to conduct design studies with minimal supervision
• Ability to communicate in a clear, concise and professional manner both verbally and in writing
• Ability to problem solve and apply innovative solutions
• Ability to work and collaborate in a team environment
• Ability to work on multiple projects at the same time
• Ability to effectively meet deadlines at expected quality