Computational Design / BIM Specialist (m/f/d)

Department of Architecture (D-ARCH) - Living Lab HIL ETH Zürich is starting a pioneering research project with a direct connection to construction practice. The HIL building on the Hönggerberg campus is being transformed into a Living Lab. The building, which requires renovation, is being remodeled and expanded. Professorships of the departments of Architecture (D-ARCH) as well as Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (D-BAUG) are researching and planning the renovation of the HIL building in the coming years in the sense of circular construction. The goal is to further develop sustainable design and construction within existing structures and to demonstrate this exemplarily in a real planning and construction project. We are looking for committed architects with deep digital understanding who will help build and further develop the digital infrastructure of the Living Lab HIL. You will design complex digital planning workflows, combine design and parametric thinking, manage BIM data exchange with the overall project team, and develop computer-aided tools to achieve our ambitious research goals. Due to the nature of the project, the position has a multi-year, fixed-term focus. We will initially issue a one-year contract with an option for extension. In this project-related role, you will primarily undertake the following tasks and responsibilities: Digital Planning: Development of the digital design and planning process of the Living Lab HIL planning team. Advising, training, and technical support for the project team and researchers regarding digital tools, coding concepts, and collaborative development environments (e.g., GitHub, AI systems). Computational Design: Development and application of parametric design methods and designs using Rhino/Grasshopper and custom scripts. Testing new methods and technologies at the interface of architecture, design, technology, and research. BIM Management: Development, implementation, and optimization of digital workflows for complex, interdisciplinary planning processes, as well as management and quality assurance of the BIM data exchange between Living Lab HIL and the external overall project team. Knowledge Management & AI: Building up knowledge management and implementing AI tools in the planning process. Contact Person for Input Projects: Contact person for research projects at the interface of digital planning. Occasional co-development of software tools in cooperation with specialized teams (e.g., in the field of software development). Visualization & XR Interface: Occasional support in the preparation of project data for highly advanced architectural visualizations in the field of VR/AR. To ideally meet the requirements of this demanding position, you bring the following profile: Education: Successfully completed university studies in architecture (ETH, FH, or comparable university degree) with a strong specialization in the field of Computational Design or Digital Fabrication. Strong architectural understanding as well as a secure sense for design, space, form, and visual quality. Computational Design: Sound experience with parametric design, generative methods, and digital design processes. BIM knowledge with an innovative approach: Proven practical experience in using BIM systems and the corresponding exchange formats with the ambition to further develop the status quo. Software and programming skills: Mandatory excellent knowledge of Rhino and Grasshopper as well as sound programming experience in Python. Experience with CAAD / BIM applications such as Revit or Archicad as well as with software interfaces and structured development processes (e.g., GitHub). AI Competence: Interest in current AI developments with a reflected understanding of their potential and limits in the creative process. Visualization & XR: Experience or interest in real-time visualization, interactive media, and immersive technologies. Mindset: Combination of design thinking, technical understanding, and a desire to experiment; analytical, solution-oriented thinking, high enthusiasm for technology, and the ability to convey complex technical matters understandably and to act as a specialist contact person in the interdisciplinary team. Languages: Very good German (min. B2/C1 for coordination in the team) and good English skills in speaking and writing. Varied project work at the interface of architecture, research, and practice. Your place of work is in the new project office in the HIL building on the ETH Campus Hönggerberg. Your position is affiliated with the project team in the Department of Architecture. We offer attractive working conditions in a dynamic and innovative international environment. You will work independently and in constant collegial exchange with our team and a variety of partners and stakeholders. We look forward to your online application with the following documents: Motivation letter Curriculum vitae Work certificates and qualifications Further information about the project can be found on our website. For inquiries, Mr. Jonas Haldemann, haldemann@arch.ethz.ch (no application documents), is at your disposal. Please apply exclusively via the online application portal. Applications via e-mail or by post will not be considered. We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence. The GTC of ETH Zürich applies to personnel agencies.