Lead Systems Designer

Insomniac Games; United States; Remote; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Insomniac Games is seeking a Lead Systems Designer to oversee the quality and timely delivery of design systems for a large-scale game production. The role combines managerial duties with hands-on design, mentoring a small Systems Design team and prototyping gameplay systems.

The ideal candidate will drive continuous improvement in design processes, collaborate across disciplines, and ensure high-quality on-screen outcomes aligned with project goals.

Qualifications

• Intermediate knowledge and experience with level editing tools and scripting such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling tools (Maya or equivalent).
• Experience with UE4 Blueprint scripting is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a Systems Design team, including performance management and career development.
• Design, prototype, iterate and polish gameplay systems and world systems.
• Collaborate with Gameplay Programming and other disciplines to leverage skills across departments.

Skills

Unreal Engine

Unity

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Microsoft Office

Blueprint scripting

3D modeling knowledge

Tools

Maya

Adobe Illustrator

Job description

Insomniac is looking for a new Lead Systems Designer. This role is accountable for the quality and on-time delivery of all design systems for a large-scale game production, as well as the direct management, mentorship, and growth of a small Systems Design team. Duties will be split between management and hands-on design as needed.

The ideal candidates are self-driven, focused on practical, high-quality execution, and will strive to create an environment in continuous improvement – both on screen and our staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for managing, mentoring, and directing a team of Systems Designers, including regular coaching, career development, and performance management. Serves as hiring manager for Systems Designers.
• Oversees and directly works on the design, prototyping, iteration and polish of gameplay systems such as player mechanics, non-combat systems, world simulation, economy, progression, or game balance. May lead one or more development pods of cross-discipline contributors.
• Directly prototypes, implements, and iterates on gameplay systems through proprietary internal tools and scripting systems.
• Fosters a strong environment of creative collaboration across all disciplines. Works directly with Gameplay Programming counterparts to best leverage skills and creativity across both departments for systems design and implementation.
• Writes and regularly updates clear gameplay system documentation detailing the scope and feature set for gameplay features. Creates tutorial videos and documentation to support systems.
• Works with Project Management to plan and maintain the systems design schedule, set priorities, plan milestones, and assign work to Systems Designers. Proactively communicates across the team to create alignment among stakeholders and clarity about status, direction, and dependencies.
• Regularly reviews design work in progress, proactively gathers feedback, and drives iteration and quality. Accountable for creative quality of all game design systems work and for ensuring the team is hitting on-screen quality targets for each milestone.
• Collaborates with the Design Director and project Game Director to ensure systems design meets the project’s creative and technical goals.
• Ensures consistency in design systems across the whole game experience by creating, tracking, and enforcing standards and metrics. Directly supports Mission Design work in this as needed.
• Runs brainstorms / reviews, creates buy-in and alignment, and champions design vision and values through clear communication and inclusivity.
• Works with other Systems Design staff across the studio to develop best practices, shared process, and design standards.
• Creates a safe, supportive, and creative work environment that exemplifies our studio values.
• Other managerial and creative duties as needed.

Supervisory Duties

Directly supervises a team of Systems Designers. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; resolving problems together with the Team and Design Department leadership.

Computer Skills:

• Intermediate knowledge and experience with level editing tools and scripting (Unreal Engine, Unity, or similar editors).
• Intermediate knowledge of Maya or other major 3D modeling programs.
• Adobe Illustrator experience and UE4 Blueprint scripting skills are a plus.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.

Other Skills:

• Individual must have very good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with team members and other developers.
• Strong communication skills including verbal and written skills are required.

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