Lead Designer

TN United Kingdom; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Lead Designer to join their award-winning team in Portsmouth. This exciting role involves leading a passionate group of designers on a major AAA console title, where creativity meets technical expertise. You will take ownership of design aspects, mentor team members, and collaborate with various disciplines to produce high-quality gaming experiences. Enjoy a friendly and relaxed working environment with ongoing training opportunities and a great seafront location. If you are ready to make a significant impact in game development, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Pension

Fresh fruit and snacks

Friendly working environment

Ongoing training opportunities

Shopping discounts

Group Private Medical Insurance (BUPA)

Dog-friendly studio

In-house clubs and social events

Qualifications

• Experience leading design on AAA console titles.
• Proficiency in Unreal Engine 5 and game design principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design team and ensure high-quality output.
• Create and maintain design documentation and conduct reviews.

Skills

Lead Design on AAA 3D Action games

Unreal Engine 5

Level Design

Player Character Design

Enemy Design

First/Third Person Shooter Design

Effective Communication

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Climax Studios was established nearly 30 years ago, with an extensive history in developing digital experiences across all formats. We have won multiple awards and are located in the heart of Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, overlooking the Harbour.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Designer to join our award-winning team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on a major AAA console title, leading a team of passionate and experienced designers. The ideal candidate is both creative and technical, enjoys hands-on creation, prototyping, and implementing game designs in engine.

This role is also suitable for an experienced Lead Level or Lead System Designer looking to progress.

Requirements

• Experience as a Lead Designer on AAA 3D Action console games.
• Experience with Level, Player Character, Enemy design, and all aspects of 3D Action game design.
• Experience designing First and/or Third Person shooters.
• Worked on and shipped at least two games.
• Able to take ownership and drive all design aspects.
• Highly proficient in Unreal 5.
• Solid understanding of all disciplines involved.
• Effective communication skills to maintain strong client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design team, sharing expertise and leading by example.
• Estimate tasks and ensure high-quality design work is delivered on schedule.
• Create and maintain clear design documentation.
• Conduct design reviews to ensure quality standards.
• Mentor team members through regular one-on-one meetings.
• Collaborate with programmers, artists, and other team members to produce high-quality products.

Benefits & Perks

• Pension
• Fresh fruit and snacks
• A friendly, focused, and relaxed working environment
• Ongoing training and career development opportunities
• Shopping discounts
• Great seafront location, near transport, bars, and restaurants
• Group Private Medical Insurance (BUPA)
• Group Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Group Income Protection
• Company Pension Scheme
• Cycle To Work Scheme
• Eye-Care Vouchers
• Dog-friendly studio — bring your pet to work!
• Bean-to-cup coffee machine
• Daily fresh fruit and healthy snacks
• In-house clubs and social events including board games, sports, D&D nights, and charity fundraisers

Role Information: EN

Location: Portsmouth, UK

Area of Work: Game Development

Service: Create

Service Type: Design

Employment Type: Permanent

Working Pattern: Full Time

Keywords Studios is committed to Equal Opportunities and creating an inclusive workplace.

Personal Data Protection Policy

By submitting your CV/Resume, you agree to our data privacy and retention policies.