Technical Game Designer
WFA Digital Insight
At Thatgamecompany, a small studio known for experimental interactive experiences, the Technical Game Designer sits at the intersection of code and design. The role demands rapid prototyping of core systems—camera mechanics, procedural animation, AI behavior—then handing those tools to the level‑design team for immediate use. Collaboration is daily, moving from a design meeting straight into the engine, testing, and refining the same day. Candidates who can translate design intent into clean C++ or C# prototypes while improving the editor’s workflow will thrive. The position also touches live‑service pipelines, requiring comfort with multiplayer frameworks and online operations. Expect a fast‑paced environment where each shipped system directly shapes the player’s sense of immersion.
Job Description
Technical Game Designer Remote – US and Canada only We are a small studio dedicated to crafting unique and high-quality interactive experiences, and we are looking for a talented designer-programmer hybrid who will collaborate with both the engineering and design teams. The goal in this role is to drive the creation and improvement of core gameplay and technical systems and tools highly tuned for the level of rich feedback and player immersion that helped define our games. An example week for this person might be: Attend a design meeting and discover the need for a new camera feature to support a new content release. Program the camera feature and jump into the level editor to test and refine its implementation. Then, improve the level editor’s toolset to enable the rest of the design team to make full use of your new feature in future levels. Of course, the role isn’t limited to just camera features. Any interactive system applies — procedural animation, cloth simulation, player controls, AI creatures, NPC interactions — use your imagination! What you'll do here: - Crafting technical systems that enable gameplay (either alone or with a small team) - Create fluid user interactions with rich feedback and polished game feel - Enjoys enabling team members by improving the creative pipeline - Is comfortable with cross-disciplinary work and collaboration Must haves: - Proficient in C++ (preferred), C, C# for quickly prototyping 3D gameplay - Visual scripting - Multiplayer game development - Online operation of a live game - Maya or 3D game engines - Portfolio of your work - Ok to take a test as part of our process Nice to haves: - Seek adventure and uncertainty in exploring experimental and risky game concepts - Believe in the practice of rapid prototyping and relentless iteration - Have a desire to create meaningful, enriching experiences that touch and inspire players
Perks
- Paid Time Off, Holidays and Two Weeks Winter Break - Employees and their dependents get medical, dental, and vision coverage, regardless of their level, tenure, or position within the company. Moreover, these benefits start on the first day of the job—there’s no waiting period before they kick in.
- Pet Insurance for those who need it too.
- Compassionate leave for employees who needs to take care of their family members - Pre-tax wellness stipend - Pre-tax work from home stipend - Access our savings plan (401K program) with company match - Mental health resources including Headspace membership and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Discount portal for everyday goods and services - Employee inclusive and diversity initiatives such as Grow Together - Support for personal professional development We look forward to meeting you!
How to Stand Out
- Highlight any C++ or C# gameplay prototypes in your portfolio; a live‑editable demo makes a strong impression.
- Include a short video walkthrough of a tool you built for a level editor to show both technical depth and usability focus.
- Be prepared for a short coding test that emphasizes rapid prototyping and clean code structure.
- Emphasize experience with visual‑scripting and how you’ve used it to empower designers.
- Mention any multiplayer or live‑service projects you’ve touched, focusing on stability and iteration cycles.
- Ensure your remote‑work setup (high‑speed internet, headset, dual monitors) is mentioned in the application.
- Research the studio’s recent titles so you can reference specific gameplay systems during the interview.
This is a remote position listed on WFA Digital, the platform for professionals who work from anywhere. Browse more remote jobs across all categories.