Computational Designer II, Footwear Innovation

Who We Are:

At Brooks, we believe movement is the key to feeling more alive. That’s why we’re driven to create gear and experiences that take people to the place that makes them feel more alive — whether it’s a headspace, a feeling, or a finish line. 

Everyone who works at Brooks is propelled by a company culture that sparks excitement, fuels collaboration, inspires creativity, and ignites innovation.

Our brand values help bond us together and drive our success:  

• Runner First 
  • We act in the best interest of the runner
• Word is Bond 
  • We do what we say we’ll do 
• Champion Heart  
  • We give our all in everything we do  
• There is no “I” in Run 
  • We stay generous with our humanity 
• Keep Moving 
  • We find ways to move every day, because joy is kinetic!

We welcome everyone from every walk of life looking to inspire others through the power of movement - because we’re all moving towards something. Let’s run there.   

Your Responsibilities:

COMPUTATIONAL CREATIVITY:
• Leverage computational tools across a variety of product domains and goals, applying algorithmic logic to footwear domains.
• Contribute  novel design solutions to problems utilizing advanced and performance-driven geometries
• Scale your workflow dynamically—move fluidly from quick, iterative explorations to high-fidelity, production-ready geometry based on project needs and timelines.
• Generate production tooling geometry using Rhino 3D or other surface modeling environments, ensuring designs can be prototyped and tested with elite athletes.
• Demonstrate strong conceptual thinking sensibilities by communicating computational solutions to other team members and project leadership.
• TECHNICAL SKILLS:
  • Perform a variety of computational tasks leveraging Grasshopper, Houdini, Blender Geometry Nodes, TouchDesigner, and other computational tools
  • Demonstrate proficiency in programming using C# / Python / Vex / Java, or other programming languages.
  • Leverage temporal and spatial data to create performance-driven geometries.
  • Integrate emerging technologies into workflows, including generative AI for concepting, code generation, ideation, or other uses.
  • Demonstrate 3D fluency across multiple paradigms and work confidently with NURBs, mesh, and other geometry typologies to solve complex design challenges. Parametric skills and methods are essential.
  • Navigate 3D interoperability with expertise, moving seamlessly between formats and software platforms based on project requirements.
  • COLLABORATION & INFLUENCE:
    • Partner directly with Innovation Footwear Design, Engineering, and Run Research team members to create breakthrough footwear concepts that advance performance.
    • Interface regularly with Run Research, Product Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering to ensure designs are grounded in performance science and manufacturing reality.
    • Present concepts and designs with clarity and conviction, inspiring cross-functional teams to embrace bold ideas.
    • Disseminate computational knowledge across teams and advocate for technological innovation
    • ACCOUNTABILITY & EXECUTION:
      • Own your deadlines and deliver with excellence: Establish and manage timelines and autonomously ensure accurate completion of projects.
      • Travel as needed (approximately 10%) to Asia, Europe, trade shows, races, factory sites, or other locations that advance the work.
      • EXPLORATION & CONTINUOUS GROWTH:
        • Continue developing Advanced Computational Skills and adding to your digital toolkit and workflows.
        • Advance integration of Computational Tools at all scales across product categories.
        • Continue exploration of novel and bleeding-edge technologies, including generative AI, proceduralism, automation, and more.
        • Deepen your understanding of performance footwear construction, runner biomechanics, manufacturing processes, and design philosophy.
        • Conduct factory and supplier visits to gain firsthand insights into manufacturing processes and build relationships that inform better design decisions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Architecture, Product Design, 3D Design, or related field (or equivalent experience) or an equivalent combination of education and experience; Master's degree preferred.
• 5+ years of professional experience in Computational Design and advanced geometry creation
• High level of proficiency in utilizing algorithmic/computational modeling tools (Grasshopper, Houdini, Blender Geometry Nodes, TouchDesigner, etc.)
• Experience with programming and scripting to expand the capabilities of native 3D software
• Deep knowledge of computational geometry and underlying mathematics behind geometry creation
• Proficiency in Rhino 3D and other directed modeling tools (Blender, Alias, Maya, etc.)
• Demonstrates high-level systems thinking as well as deep technical understanding of computational methods
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to build relationships across diverse stakeholder groups
• Deep empathy for athletes and their needs
• Embraces and lives the Brooks values!

At Brooks, we celebrate diversity & equity. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment, and encourage people of all backgrounds, perspectives, experiences, and skills to apply. Brooks is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, two-spirit identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, the presence of a physical, mental, or sensory disability, marital status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), caste, citizenship or immigration status, honorably discharged veteran or military status, actual or perceived victims of domestic violence, harassment, sexual assault or stalking, HIV or Hepatitis C infection, political ideology, use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability, or on any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law, or any other non-merit based factors.