Senior Specialist - Computational Designer

Senior Specialist - Computational Designer

As a Computational Designer, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping On’s future by leveraging your expertise in computationally driven product design and innovation. You’ll work closely with the Innovation and Footwear Design teams to drive new digital generative capabilities, streamline design processes, and contribute to the development of On’s most cutting‑edge products and technologies.

• Use computational design skills to create pioneering product concepts that set new standards for performance and innovation.
• Implement parametric and algorithmic design principles to develop adaptable design systems, enabling customizable and easily adjustable solutions.
• Leverage generative design to explore complex, optimized forms that meet specific performance requirements.
• Transform blue‑sky ideas into proof‑of‑concept prototypes using rapid prototyping through concepts, mock‑ups, visuals, 2D and 3D files.
• Collaborate closely with Innovation sports science, development, and material teams to turn concepts into scalable prototypes.
• Partner with innovation and development teams across Europe and Asia to create scalable, performance‑focused product designs.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in computational design tools and CNC machining technologies to enhance the footwear design process.
• Communicate effectively with design, development and manufacturing teams to ensure a smooth transition from design concepts to production‑ready files.
• Inspire and implement computational design capabilities across all product functions, driving innovation and efficiency.

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Product/Industrial Design, Architecture, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in computational or advanced CAD design, with a proven track record in launching complex product designs, emphasizing innovation.
• Expertise in Rhino, Grasshopper, Adobe Creative Suite, and skills in platforms like Maya, Zbrush, Blender, or Python, with an emphasis on parametric and generative design.
• Familiarity with an object‑oriented programming language such as Python or C#.
• Proven experience in developing generalized and robust algorithms for geometric problems.
• Familiarity with version control systems such as Git and in‑depth knowledge of algorithms and data structures.
• Experience with digital fabrication using CNC, additive manufacturing and robotic fabrication.
• Advanced knowledge of general manufacturing processes.
• Experience in visualization, creating photorealistic renders to enhance design presentations and user experience is a plus.
• Must be able to thrive in a fast‑paced environment.
• Possess an innovative mind with a strong drive to push the boundaries of footwear design.
• Ability to work independently under deadlines on multiple projects simultaneously, requiring both innovative ideas and engineering problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills and comfortable adapting communication style between engineers, designers, product experts, and cross‑functional non‑product creation partners.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

You will work in the Innovation Design Studio with an international team of experts, developers, engineers across different disciplines, designing and developing the most advanced products and technologies  deliver breakthrough innovation and design by leveraging state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing technologies and design tools. This team is specifically tasked with designing and developing the most exciting long‑term innovation solutions into high‑level product concepts that are driven by athlete performance and sustainability goals.

To be truly disruptive in this space, this team rethinks the ways our products are made from the ground up and seamlessly integrates design and technology to unlock new opportunities.

Just by the banks of the Limmat you’ll find our largest global hub in Zürich West – On Labs – where you can hike up 12 floors through our custom‑built spiral trail.

On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically – to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team‑oriented atmosphere, with access to personal self‑care for both physical and mental well‑being, so each person is led by purpose.

On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.