Associate Game Designer (Technical)

TL;DR

Associate Game Designer (Technical): Prototyping and implementing gameplay mechanics, combat encounters, and narrative sequences using in-house tools with an accent on technical scripting and rapid iteration. Focus on collaborating across departments to bring prototypes into production while maintaining the high quality standards of the studio.

Location: Must be based in or able to work onsite in Santa Monica, CA, USA. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Salary: $37–$50 per hour.

Company

A world-renowned game development studio known for crafting critically acclaimed, character-driven titles that push the boundaries of narrative and technology.

What you will do

• Prototype, implement, and own gameplay scenarios, narrative sequences, and interactive objects.
• Collaborate with the design team to conceptualize, tune, and balance gameplay mechanics.
• Communicate with animation, programming, and art departments to produce required assets and code support.
• Iterate rapidly on enemy behaviors and player mechanics.

Requirements

• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Significant programming ability (Computer Science degree preferred).
• Knowledge of 3D math.
• Experience with C++, C#, Lua, or other scripting languages.
• Broad understanding of the gaming landscape.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Nice to have

• Experience developing third-person action games.
• Experience with 3D level editors.
• Understanding of narrative principles and conveying emotion through gameplay.
• Experience with behavior trees, melee, combat systems, or character animation.

Culture & Benefits

• Eligible for medical, dental, and vision benefit offerings.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile, critically acclaimed titles.
• Collaborative environment with top creative and technical minds in the industry.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusive studio culture.

Hiring process

• Technical interview required as part of the application process.
• Background checks conducted at the offer stage.