thatgamecompany: Technical Game Designer

Job Overview

thatgamecompany is seeking a Technical Game Designer to join their remote team in the U.S. and Canada. The studio focuses on creating unique and high-quality interactive experiences, and this role is a hybrid of design and programming, aimed at enhancing core gameplay and technical systems. Candidates should be passionate about gaming and ready to contribute innovatively to game development.

Role and Responsibilities

As a Technical Game Designer, you will play a vital role in shaping the gameplay experience. Typical weekly responsibilities may include:

Attending design meetings to identify new features required for game content.
Developing and programming new features, such as camera systems, or any other interactive systems that enhance gameplay.
Testing and refining these features in a level editor, ensuring a smooth integration.
Enhancing toolsets that allow other design team members to capitalize on your developments.

This position offers an opportunity to work across various interactive systems, including procedural animation, cloth simulation, player controls, AI creatures, and NPC interactions. The role is not limited to one type of system; creativity and innovation are strongly encouraged.

Required Skills

Candidates will need to demonstrate the following skills and qualifications:

Proficiency in C, C#, or C++ to quickly prototype 3D gameplay elements.
Experience with visual scripting and multiplayer game development.
Familiarity with the online operation of live games.
Working knowledge of Maya or other 3D game engines.

In addition to these must-have skills, the company appreciates a mindset geared towards adventure, experimentation, and a willingness to explore innovative concepts. Candidates should value rapid prototyping and iteration to create enriching experiences for players.

Nice to Haves

While not essential, having a desire for adventure and seeking to explore experimental and risky game concepts would be a plus. Candidates should have a robust vision of developing meaningful experiences that inspire players.

Perks and Benefits

Working at thatgamecompany comes with several enticing perks and benefits, including:

Paid Time Off and Holidays, including a two-week Winter Break.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents starting on the first day of employment.
Pet insurance for those who need it.
Compassionate leave for employees who need to care for family members.
A pre-tax wellness stipend and a pre-tax work-from-home stipend.
Access to a 401K program with company matching.
Mental health resources, including a Headspace membership and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Discounts through a portal for everyday goods and services.
Inclusive and diversity initiatives and support for personal professional development.

Salary and Employment Details

The expected salary range for this position is $57,000 to $120,000 USD annually, with potential for an annual discretionary bonus. It's important to note that the actual salary may vary based on the company’s compensation practices. Employees in this position are eligible to participate in thatgamecompany’s standard employee benefit programs, including health coverage and paid time off.

Application Process

Candidates interested in this position are encouraged to apply. However, it is important to note that all applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. at the time of application. thatgamecompany is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

Conclusion

If you are a passionate designer-programmer hybrid looking to contribute to an innovative studio that values creativity and player immersion, consider applying for the Technical Game Designer position at thatgamecompany. The combination of a supportive company culture, competitive salary, and comprehensive benefits makes this opportunity appealing for any job seeker eager to leave a mark in the gaming industry.

This job offer was originally published on weworkremotely.com