Position Summary
As an Associate Mathematician at Light & Wonder, you will collaborate with artists, software engineers, and game designers to deliver engaging slot game experiences. Develop math models that drive gameplay, ensuring optimal Return to Player (RTP) and player enjoyment.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and document math models for slot games, including pay tables, reel strips, feature triggers, and bonus structures, with clear probability calculations and simulations.
- Collaborate closely with game designers and other mathematicians to brainstorm new mechanics and features, assessing mathematical feasibility and expected player experience.
- Build, run, and refine simulations to verify math models, stress‑test edge cases, and gather performance statistics.
- Work hand‑in‑hand with software engineers and math test engineers to ensure accurate implementation of math models, diagnosing discrepancies between theoretical results and live game behavior.
- Support regulatory compliance by preparing math documentation and addressing internal testing or certification questions.
- Iterate on game math throughout development, tuning parameters based on internal feedback, playtests, and early performance data while preserving intended player experience, RTP targets, and jurisdictional requirements.
- Stay informed about slot games and market trends, analyzing math structures and features from products and sharing insights with the team.
Experience
- 0–3 years of professional experience in applied mathematics, probability, statistics, combinatorics, or a closely related field.
- Experience designing or modeling systems with randomness, such as casino math, simulations, or trading models.
- Demonstrated interest in slot machines and casino games through professional experience, academic work, or hobbyist game design.
- Prior experience in the game or casino industry is preferred but not required.
Education
- Master’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a related quantitative field (Ph.D. is a plus).
- Strong focus on probability, statistics, or combinatorics through coursework or projects.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong applied math skills for building, analyzing, and balancing stochastic models (RTP, hit frequency, volatility, bonus frequencies).
- Ability to independently develop, evaluate, and iterate on new mathematical game concepts that align with player experience and product goals.
- Creative idea and mechanic contribution to game design discussions; comfortable collaborating with designers, artists, and producers and explaining math clearly to non‑mathematicians.
- Proficiency with analytical and development tools, including strong Excel skills and experience with at least one programming or scripting environment for simulation and analysis (C#, C++, Python; C++ is a strong plus).
- Detail‑oriented, iterative work style, enjoying tuning parameters, validating results, and rigorously testing math models.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal; able to document math clearly and support math reviews with other teams.