Lead Systems Designer

About the Role

The role involves a mix of hands-on design work and management responsibilities, including planning, assigning, and directing work, as well as appraising performance and resolving problems. The Lead Systems Designer will work closely with the Design Director and project Game Director to ensure that systems design meets the project's creative and technical goals.

The systems design team is a crucial part of the game development process, and the Lead Systems Designer will play a key role in fostering a collaborative and creative environment. This will involve working closely with cross-discipline contributors, including gameplay programmers, to leverage skills and creativity across both departments.

What You Will Do

• Manage, mentor, and direct a team of Systems Designers, including regular coaching, career development, and performance management
• Oversee and directly work on the design, prototyping, iteration, and polish of gameplay systems, such as player mechanics, non-combat systems, world simulation, economy, progression, or game balance
• Lead one or more development pods of cross-discipline contributors
• Directly prototype, implement, and iterate on gameplay systems through proprietary internal tools and scripting systems
• Foster a strong environment of creative collaboration across all disciplines
• Work directly with Gameplay Programming counterparts to best leverage skills and creativity across both departments for systems design and implementation
• Write and regularly update clear gameplay system documentation detailing the scope and feature set for gameplay features
• Create tutorial videos and documentation to support systems
• Work with Project Management to plan and maintain the systems design schedule, set priorities, plan milestones, and assign work to Systems Designers
• Proactively communicate across the team to create alignment among stakeholders and clarity about status, direction, and dependencies
• Regularly review design work in progress, proactively gather feedback, and drive iteration and quality

What We Are Looking For

• Intermediate knowledge and experience with level editing tools and scripting (Unreal Engine, Unity, or similar editors)
• Intermediate knowledge of Maya or other major 3D modeling programs
• Adobe Illustrator experience and UE4 Blueprint scripting skills are a plus
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong communication skills, including verbal and written skills
• Very good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with team members and other developers
• Experience in managing and mentoring a team of designers
• Strong understanding of game design principles and systems design
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Nice to Have

• Experience with other game engines, such as Godot or CryEngine
• Knowledge of programming languages, such as C++ or Java
• Experience with agile development methodologies
• Certification in game design or a related field

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work on high-profile game titles
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment
• Flexible working hours and remote work options
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• Access to cutting-edge game development tools and technology
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans
• Generous paid time off and holiday allowance

• Make sure to highlight your management experience and technical skills in your application, as well as your ability to work collaboratively with cross-discipline teams.
• Showcase your knowledge of game design principles and systems design in your portfolio, and be prepared to discuss your design decisions and process during the interview.
• Develop a strong understanding of the company's values and mission, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with these.
• Be prepared to provide examples of your experience with level editing tools and scripting, as well as your knowledge of 3D modeling programs and game engines.
• Consider taking courses or earning certifications in game design or related fields to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
• Research the company's culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment.