Combat Designer (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Combat Designer (Unreal Engine 5): Designing and implementing moment-to-moment combat gameplay and core combat loops with an accent on the intersection of character, camera, and controls. Focus on prototyping combat scenarios in-engine, tuning gameplay feel, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure responsive and rewarding action.

Location: Raleigh, NC. Must be based in the US or be open to relocating to Raleigh, NC. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Company

hirify.global is an artist-led independent studio shaping the future of storytelling through film, television, and immersive interconnected worlds.

What you will do

• Design, implement, and iterate on combat systems, including player abilities, hit reactions, and moment-to-moment flow.
• Prototype combat scenarios and encounters directly in Unreal Engine 5 using scripting and design tools.
• Collaborate with Animation, VFX, and Audio teams to ensure combat actions are responsive and impactful.
• Maintain combat design documentation, including system specifications, encounter guidelines, and balance frameworks.
• Perform rigorous playtesting and synthesize internal and external feedback into actionable design revisions.
• Align combat mechanics with character identity and story context in collaboration with leadership.

Requirements

• 3-6 years of professional game design experience.
• At least one shipped title where combat or action systems were a significant part of your contribution.
• Hands-on proficiency in Unreal Engine 5 for prototyping and implementation without heavy engineering support.
• Strong foundation in general game design principles.
• Experience working cross-functionally with animation, engineering, and VFX pipelines.

Culture & Benefits

• Work within an artist-led studio founded by the Russo Brothers.
• Opportunity to build the future of storytelling alongside industry veterans like Donald Mustard.
• High-impact role on an ambitious team creating immersive, multi-media worlds.
• Fair and unbiased recruitment procedures with equal opportunity for all applicants.