Graduate Computational Urban Designer (G2)

Arup Graduate Computational Urban Designer role combining urban design, masterplanning, computational modelling, GIS, data analysis and digital workflows to support evidence-based planning and sustainable development projects.

You see the world through a unique lens and that’s exactly what we need. We embrace how you see things differently – it’s essential for creating a sustainable future.      

Arup is a global consultancy with advisory and technical expertise across more than 150 disciplines. We guide, plan and design the future of the built environment. Globally, each year we recruit hundreds of graduates and students who help us see things differently and solve the most complex challenges facing our clients, climate and communities.  

The Opportunity

The Graduate Computational Urban Designer would contribute across two connected workstreams in our team.

• Strategic Masterplanning & Advisory:

• Masterplanning and urban design studies

• Research, analysis and visualisation

• Development frameworks and strategic plans

• Community and stakeholder engagement support

• Bid and proposal support

• Urban InForm:

• Project deployment and set-up

• Computational modelling support

• Testing and quality assurance with Arup domain experts

• Development of re-usable digital workflows and libraries

• User support, onboarding and training materials

• Production of client demonstrations and project value stories  

• You will be aligned but not limited to the following duties -  

• Masterplanning and urban design studies

• Computational modelling support- specific to Arup's Urban Inform

• Development of re-usable digital workflows and libraries

• Production of client demonstrations and project value stories

Is this role right for you?

For this opportunity, we are seeking the following qualifications, skills and attributes:

A Master's-level degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, such as Computer Science (including Cybersecurity), Architecture, Urban Design or Urban Planning.

• Parametric and computational design:
  Rhino and Grasshopper 
  Ability to build, test and maintain reusable scripts, definitions and workflows 
  Understanding of spatial parameters, design rules, optimisation and scenario testing.

• GIS, spatial data and mapping: 
  ArcGIS, QGIS and/or FME 
  Spatial data preparation, cleaning, geoprocessing and analysis 
  Ability to work with site, land use, movement, environmental and socio-economic datasets.

• Data analytics and visualisation: 
  Excel, Power BI and/or similar dashboarding tools 
  Ability to interpret datasets and translate outputs into clear project insights 
  Basic understanding of data structures, KPIs and performance metrics 
  Urban modelling and scenario testing: Experience supporting masterplan option testing, density studies, accessibility analysis, land-use mix, capacity studies and climate/sustainability metrics

Ability to connect design inputs with evidence-based outputs for client decision-making

• Coding and scripting: 
  Python would be particularly useful, especially for automation, data processing and linking design tools with external datasets 
  Familiarity with APIs, notebooks or low-code/no-code workflows would be beneficial

• CAD and design production: 
  AutoCAD, Rhino and potentially Revit awareness 
  Ability to translate between technical outputs and spatial/design drawings

• Graphic communication and client-facing outputs: 
  Adobe Creative Suite, especially Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop 
  Clear visual storytelling for reports, bids, client demonstrations and training materials

• AI-supported workflows: 
  Interest in AI-assisted design, research, coding, data interpretation and visualisation 
  Ability to test AI-enabled workflows responsibly and document their value, risks and limitations

To be considered for a graduate opportunity, your application must include a copy of your academic transcript and meet the following criteria:  

• Full working rights in the country of application  

• No more than 12 months of full-time experience in a comparable role

• Recently graduated, or on track to graduate, from your most recent degree, related to your role of choice, before employment starts.  

In order for your application to be considered for this role, please upload evidence of work, for example your sample portfolio or website link. The document must be in PDF format and no larger than 20MB. Please use image compression and vector drawings where possible to keep the file size down without sacrificing quality. To upload your sample portfolio please add it within the 'supporting documents' section of your application.

• Alongside your qualifications and experience, we look for the following core attributes:

• Changemakers: You care about sustainable development and want to see your work make a genuine difference.

• Innovative minds: You think critically, ask hard questions, and are genuinely open to new approaches.

• Growth seekers: You are curious, actively seek feedback, and look for ways to keep developing.

• •Adaptable adventurers: You are comfortable with uncertainty and adapt readily as projects and priorities evolve.

Please note, in the event of high applicant volume, this role may be closed ahead of the advertised closing date. Early application is recommended.

Eligibility  
Please note that we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. Therefore, you must ensure that you are eligible to work permanently in the UK without our sponsorship.

What we offer you

At Arup, we care about each member’s success, so we can grow together.  Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognises the contribution of each of our members to our shared success.

As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive – through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do.    

We are owned in trust on behalf of our members, giving us the freedom, with personal responsibility, to set our own direction and choose work that aligns with our purpose and adds to Arup’s legacy. Our members collaborate on ambitious projects to deliver remarkable outcomes for our clients and communities. Profit Share is a key part of our reward, enabling permanent members to share in the results of our collective efforts.  

We take an approach to flexible working that supports the diversity and wellbeing of our graduates.  

We also provide for our permanent members Private medical insurance, Life assurance, Accident insurance and Income protection cover. In addition, you’ll have access to flexible benefits to help you look after all aspects of your wellbeing and give you the freedom and flexibility to find the best solutions for you, your family, and your individual needs.