Computational Design Lead - Master Planning

Parsons is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Computational Design Lead - Master Planning to join our award-winning Urban Studio. This leadership role blends deep computational design expertise with strategic input in large-scale urban and regional Master Planning projects. The successful candidate will lead the integration of advanced digital design tools and automation across multidisciplinary teams to drive innovative, efficient, and sustainable outcomes in complex planning and design initiatives.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Lead the development and integration of computational design strategies for large-scale Master Planning and urban design projects across the region.
• Collaborate with urban designers, landscape architects, and planners to develop parametric and data-driven design frameworks that inform early-stage design, feasibility, and scenario planning.
• Develop automation solutions and digital workflows using Python, C#, Grasshopper, and Dynamo to accelerate and standardize repetitive tasks, enhancing design speed and accuracy.
• Build custom toolkits and plugins for platforms such as Autodesk Revit, Civil3D, Rhino, Bentley, and ESRI, tailored to the needs of large-scale planning and infrastructure projects.
• Apply AI/ML methodologies to spatial analysis, generative design, and performance-driven planning (e.g., land-use optimization, energy modeling, demographic clustering).
• Design data dashboards and spatial analytics tools to visualize KPIs, phasing, zoning parameters, or infrastructure dependencies.
• Champion the Digital Master Planning agenda guiding the team on emerging technologies, data standards, and digital delivery processes.
• Mentor junior team members and specialists in computational design and automation, growing internal digital capabilities.
• Lead engagements with project stakeholders to demonstrate the value of computational design and gain buy-in on automation strategies.
• Manage internal governance for tool deployment cybersecurity compliance, licensing, documentation, training, and performance monitoring.
• Ensure all tools and scripts are documented, version-controlled, and aligned with ISO and BIM delivery protocols.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in Computational Design, with significant exposure to urban design, landscape, and Master Planning projects.
• Expert knowledge of Revit API, Civicl3D API, RhinoCommon API, or similar SDKs.
• Advanced proficiency in Python, C#, and scripting within Dynamo, Grasshopper, or custom UI frameworks.
• Hands-on experience with Autodesk, Rhino, Bentley, and ESRI platforms is essential.
• Experience integrating geospatial data, GIS tools, and spatial analysis into design workflows.
• Demonstrated application of AI/ML in spatial design, simulations, or predictive modeling is highly advantageous.
• Solid understanding of urban development processes, sustainability metrics, zoning regulations, and planning policy frameworks.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate technical complexity into design value.
• Experience working in BIM and Common Data Environment (CDE) ecosystems is preferred.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal & written

What Desired Skills You'll Bring:

• Previous experience working on large-scale masterplans in the Middle East, Asia, or Africa is an asset.
• Familiarity with tools like Forma for site planning and environmental analysis.
• Understanding of Smart City and Digital Twin strategies is a plus.
• Knowledge of ISO 19650, and digital project delivery frameworks is desirable.