Director Of Research Science (AI)

TL;DR

Director of Research Science (AI): Leading a multi-disciplinary research organization to advance game AI and foundational models with an accent on organizational strategy, talent development, and scaling technical operations. Focus on building sustainable performance systems, resolving complex interpersonal challenges, and bridging the gap between exploratory research and hands-on engineering execution.

Location: Must be based in Los Angeles, CA

Company

A leading game developer dedicated to creating immersive player experiences and pushing the boundaries of game technology through innovation and collaborative teamwork.

What you will do

• Oversee end-to-end organizational effectiveness, including performance management, compensation calibration, and career development across diverse technical craft ladders.
• Define and execute headcount planning and staffing strategies aligned with long-term research ambitions and roadmap priorities.
• Build scalable mentorship systems and foster team health, engagement, and operational sustainability.
• Partner with the Head of Research on organizational strategy, research prioritization, and defining impact metrics for successful prototypes and research bets.
• Resolve interpersonal and cross-disciplinary conflicts while maintaining a culture of intellectual rigor and high technical standards.
• Represent the research function within broader technology leadership forums and collaborate with cross-functional partners in HR and Talent.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in research, engineering, or technical organizations.
• 4+ years managing senior technical individual contributors across multiple disciplines.
• Proven track record leading AI/ML or frontier research organizations and scaling technical teams.
• Demonstrated success in performance management, career leveling, and talent development.
• Strong judgment in resolving conflict and navigating high-ambiguity environments.
• Excellent communication skills for both technical and executive audiences.

Nice to have

• Background in game development, applied AI, or interactive systems.
• Experience building mentorship frameworks across multiple technical disciplines.
• Experience managing hybrid research and engineering teams.

Culture & Benefits

• Focus on work-life balance with an open paid time off policy and flexible work schedules.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and life insurance.
• Parental leave support for employees and their families.
• 401k retirement plan with company match.
• Collaborative environment dedicated to player-focused innovation.