Computation Design Lead

Vivobarefoot ltd.; Bristol; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative footwear company based in Bristol is seeking a Computational Design Specialist to enhance a patented scan-to-print system. You will work on developing tools that transform biometric data into personalized footwear while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team. The ideal candidate has deep experience in Grasshopper and coding skills in Python or C#, with a passion for pushing design boundaries.

Qualifications

• Deep experience in Grasshopper + Rhino at expert level.
• Strong coding ability in Python and/or C#.
• Proven ability to build digital tools linking data to fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enhance the VivoBiome parametric design tool.
• Build and optimize design-to-fabrication pipelines.
• Translate complex design logic for non-technical users.

Skills

Expert in Grasshopper

Coding in Python and/or C#

Parametric design knowledge

3D printing experience

Digital fabrication skills

Education

Background in architecture or industrial design

Job description

We’re conscious mavericks: an open-minded, creative, and mission-driven team who challenge the status quo. We work at the intersection of human x nature x technology, and believe the wellbeing of people and the planet are deeply interconnected.

If you’re fuelled by curiosity, collaborative by default, and want to push the boundaries of what’s possible in a multidisciplinary team of specialists — you’ll fit right in.

We’re looking for a Computational Design Specialist to join the next phase of the Vivobiome patented scan-to-print personalisedfootwear system.

Based in Bristol, you’ll sit at the heart of our design-to-manufacture pipeline - shaping how biometric data becomes personalisedproduct, and helping unlock the future of local digital footwear production. This role is ideal for someone who blends parametricdesign logic, coding, product thinking, and making, and wants to see their work move from concept into real-world physicalproducts on feet.

We know Bristol (where we’re based) and the EU is home to some of the brightest minds in this space - if that’s you, we’d love to talk.

WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING?

• Develop and enhance the existing VivoBiome parametric design tool that transform biome / scan data into personalisedfootwear geometries.
• Build, maintain, and optimise design-to-fabrication pipelines (Rhino/Grasshopper → code → digital manufacturing).
• Create modular, scalable design tools enabling rapid scan-to-print iteration, testing, and personalisation at scale.
• Collaborate with industrial designers, biomechanists, material scientists, and digital fabrication engineers to find solutions andbring concepts to life.
• Translate complex design logic into clear, usable tools for non-technical team members.
• Prototype, test, and refine geometries for 3D printing, digital fabrication, and robotic processes.
• Bring a “maker” mindset: rapidly experiment, learn, integrate user feedback, and push the boundaries of personalised product.

WHAT WE'D LOVE TO SEE FROM YOU

• Deep experience in Grasshopper + Rhino (expert user level).
• Strong coding ability in Python and/or C#
• Strong grounding in parametric, procedural, and algorithmic design.
• Proven ability to build digital tools or workflows that link data → geometry → fabrication.
• Experience in 3D printing, digital fabrication, or robotics-led making.
• Able to work in a fast-moving, exploratory environment with a high degree of autonomy (preferred).
• Background in architecture, computational design, industrial design, or performance product.
• Experience developing data-driven or generative design tools for real-world manufacturing.
• Understanding of biomechanics, human movement, or footwear performance (a bonus, but not required).
• Experience in cross-disciplinary ‘bridge roles’ between design, engineering, and fabrication teams.

JUST IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING..

• This is a full-time position.
• This is a hybrid role based in the UK – however we know the EU is home to some of the brightest minds in this space and are keen to hear from all.

At Vivo, we value different perspectives because they spark creativity, drive innovation and empower everyone to bring their whole selves to work.

Every new team member brings unique talents, experiences, and potential. Through collaboration and open feedback, we create space for people to grow, explore new ideas, and connect. That’s why we are committed to inclusive hiring - welcoming people of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities. We look forward to walking this barefoot journey with you!