Lead Game Designer

Summary

Join Big Time Studios, a new game studio building cutting-edge AAA entertainment, as their Lead Game Designer. You will spearhead the design and evolution of core gameplay systems for their next big project. This role involves balancing game mechanics, driving live operations, and using analytics to optimize player engagement. You'll lead a team of designers, engineers, and artists, managing game balancing, economy tuning, and live event design. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in live service game design, a passion for data-driven design, and a strong understanding of game economies. Big Time Studios offers a fully remote work environment, unlimited PTO, competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to significantly impact a new project.

Requirements

• 7+ years of game design experience, with shipped titles in live-service games (MMOs, strategy games, RPGs, or similar)
• Strong background in live operations and experience designing data-driven game updates that drive player retention
• Proficiency in game analytics and telemetry tools, with a track record of using player data to refine and improve game systems
• Deep understanding of in-game economies, balance, and progression systems, with experience in designing sustainable, engaging systems for online games
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with experience leading and mentoring design teams
• Experience working cross-functionally with engineers, artists, and product teams to deliver high-quality game experiences
• Proficiency with industry-standard design and analytics tools, including spreadsheets for balancing, SQL for querying game data, and game engines like Unity or Unreal
• Passion for building engaging online experiences that keep players coming back

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and iteration of core gameplay mechanics, ensuring deep, engaging, and scalable systems
• Oversee live events, seasonal content, balance updates, and other live service elements to maximize player engagement and long-term retention
• Leverage player telemetry, A/B testing, and analytics to make informed design decisions that improve user experience and game balance
• Design and maintain a dynamic in-game economy, ensuring fair and engaging progression for all types of players
• Work closely with engineering, art, marketing, and community teams to ensure smooth execution of features and live events
• Manage and mentor a team of game designers, fostering growth and maintaining high-quality design standards
• Maintain detailed, up-to-date documentation on game systems, mechanics, and economy models to align with development goals

Benefits

• Fully Remote Work: A fully remote work environment with flexible hours and a yearly company offsite to bring the whole team together
• Work with the Best: Collaborate with gaming industry veterans who have developed games generating over $10B in combined revenue
• Unlimited PTO: Take the time you need, when you need it. We believe in a healthy work-life balance
• Competitive Compensation: Market-leading salary, performance-based bonuses, and stock options
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision (if applicable based on location), and other wellness programs
• Growth & Impact: Be part of an early-stage project where you’ll have a major influence on the design, live operations, and overall player experience