Senior Gameplay Designer

Company: Blind Squirrel Entertainment Inc
Location: Irvine
Posted on: May 25, 2023

Job Description:

Description

Blind Squirrel Games (BSG) is a proud, independent studio that joins forces with developers and publishers seeking an innovative partner in creating quality games. At BSG, people are our purpose, so we prioritize an inquisitive, proactive, and collaborative work environment for all our squirrels. We operate as a hybrid-remote studio, allowing our developers the flexibility to crush milestone goals at the studio or within the comfort of their own home.

We currently have studio locations in Irvine, California; Austin, Texas; and Auckland, New Zealand.

At BSG, we are happy to provide ample opportunities for career development, host social activities, and various other perks for our employees, such as:

Competitive Compensation Package
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Company-paid life insurance
401k plan with company contribution
Flexible work schedule
Paid Time Off
Extended Winter Break (Paid)
Remote Work
Company-sponsored Activities (Game nights, movie outings, potlucks, contests, etc.)

Skills and experience are highly valued at BSG, but we recognize that talent is a product of hard-work, resilience, and a growth-mindset. Therefore, we champion individuals who have demonstrated they have the grit necessary to overcome challenges and subscribe to the notion that inclusion breeds synergy and innovation. To us, diversity isn't a metric-it's a must!

SENIOR DESIGNERS AT BSG...
You have intimate knowledge of the design pipeline and have evolved your skillset and techniques to align with the wisdom you've gained by working on numerous AAA titles. You are recognized as a reliable developer with the chops to get the job done but the self-actualization to know when to seek feedback. You laugh in the face of a challenge because you already set high expectations for yourself and are confident in your ability to deliver high-quality work the first time around.

Although your influence is essential to the department's success and you provide some mentorship to junior developers, designing is your bread and butter. You are a master of independent work but recognize the power behind collaboration so you haven't forgotten how to be a team player.

Role and Responsibilities
Blind Squirrel Games is looking for a Senior Gameplay Designer. The Senior Designer is responsible for creating and implementing a suite of different game design content. A self-driven, talented individual who is just as comfortable with systems design as they are with encounter or level design. They will also mentor other designers and help craft the best possible experience for the player.

This is a full-time position available to work remotely or based out of our Irvine, Austin, or Auckland studio.
The salary range being considered for this role is 89,600 - $134,400. This base pay range is for the U.S. and is not applicable to locations outside of the U.S. Actual amounts will vary depending on experience, performance, and location.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of complex design systems and collaborate cross-functionally to oversee the in-game implementation of related tools and features
• Determine problem areas impacting combat systems, monetization, technical design and craft swift, creative solutions
• The quality/execution of the complex design systems which bring player characters to life
• Determine problem areas impacting player movement, awareness and feel
• Build comprehensive and engaging elements that apply ergonomic principles and accessibility
• Work with and take guidance from Directors to drive design-centric features from concept to completion
• Standardize, document and advocate for high-quality design fundamentals, continuously improving the workflow process as it relates to the game's interactive elements such as game systems, controls, and interfaces
• Participate in and contribute to cross-functional discussions related to the development and implementation of tools and required game systems adjustments
• Assist in mentoring junior members of the design team
• Other relevant duties and responsibilities as assigned to help complete company or department objectives
  
  Qualifications and Education Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in the game industry or related area
• A portfolio demonstrating exemplary design experience working in interactive media
  Preferred Skills
  • Familiarity performing basic scripting and encounter design configuration tasks with Unreal 4 or proprietary game engines
  • Strong technical abilities
  • Ability to identify and breakdown any game's actions into systems and requirements
  • Have a passion, and experience in prior action or combat design roles
  • Broad taste in video games and passion for game development
  • Expert knowledge and understanding of the game production pipeline
  • Excellent organization, communication, and interpersonal skills
    Pluses
    • Shipped a triple AAA Game
    • Experience leading cross-disciplinary teams
    • Console development experience
      Blind Squirrel Entertainment, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. Eligibility to participate in benefits and perks may vary depending on position term and location.
      
      We share personal information collected internally, with affiliates and with service providers for the purposes set forth by the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and with your consent. For the avoidance of doubt, Blind Squirrel Games does not sell your personal information to third parties, as those terms are defined in the CCPA.

Keywords: Blind Squirrel Entertainment Inc, Irvine , Senior Gameplay Designer, Other , Irvine, California