Computational Design Lead - Master Planning

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!

When it comes to what you want in your career, if you can imagine it, you can do it at Parsons. Imagine a career working with intelligent, diverse people sharing a common quest. Imagine a workplace where you can be yourself. Where you can thrive. Where you can find your next, right now. We’ve got what you’re looking for.

Job Description

Computational Design Lead - Master Planning

Dubai, UAE

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 Youll 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 Youll Bring

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in Computational Design, with significant exposure to urban design, landscape, and Master Planning projects.
• Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Urban Design, Computer Science or related field; Master’s degree preferred
• Proven leadership in automation and parametric design within multi-disciplinary environments.
• 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 Youll 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.
  
  
  

Parsons equally employs representation at all job levels no matter the race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability or genetic information.

We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!

Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer to https://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.

---