Senior Narrative Systems Designer - Sanzaru Game Studio

Oculus VR; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 112,000 - 161,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a talented Narrative Systems Designer to craft immersive gaming experiences. This role involves transforming abstract ideas into engaging narratives and mechanics, collaborating closely with art and engineering teams. You'll be at the heart of game development, ensuring that every aspect contributes to a captivating player journey. If you're passionate about storytelling in games and thrive in a creative environment, this opportunity offers a chance to shape the future of interactive entertainment while working with cutting-edge technology in a dynamic team setting.

Benefits

Bonus

Equity

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• 5+ years of design experience in games with a strong portfolio.
• Intermediate knowledge of 3D modeling tools like Maya.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize designs and implement narrative content using Unreal Engine 5.
• Collaborate with Level Designers to create engaging quests.

Skills

Narrative Design

System Design

Cross-functional Communication

Problem Solving

VR Familiarity

Education

5+ years of design experience in the games industry

Portfolio showcasing Narrative Design work

Tools

Unreal Engine 5

Maya

Microsoft Excel

Blueprint scripting

C++

Job description

Sanzaru Games is seeking an experienced Narrative Systems Designer to join our team. In this role, you'll craft immersive game-wide features, transforming abstract ideas into detailed rules and models that drive the player experience. Your work will span AI, combat mechanics, boss encounters, and narrative systems, all designed to create unforgettable gaming experiences.

Narrative Systems Designers play a vital role in our game development process, working hand-in-hand with art and engineering teams to craft immersive experiences that blend engaging narrative moments with polished gameplay mechanics. By balancing vision with technical knowledge, our Narrative Designers ensure that every aspect of the game contributes to a seamless and captivating player journey.

Our narrative designers are the technical storytelling core within a Studio that crafts world-class Cinematic, Narrative, and Questing systems. You will be expected to work on a variety of features throughout production, be it Cinematics, Audio & VO, Questing, or any other feature that is story-driven.

Responsibilities

1. Conceptualize and drive designs from paper to final system architecture.
2. Under the direction of the Narrative Lead, implement narrative content using Unreal Engine 5.
3. Partner and collaborate with Level Designers and other stakeholders to stand up Quests and Objectives.
4. Level scripting and setup using script-based languages like UE5 Blueprint.
5. Collaborate with Gameplay Engineers on developing global gameplay mechanics.
6. Work within the design team to support global and level-specific systems needs.
7. Create and maintain technical documentation related to narrative tools within the studio and with development partners.
8. Employ rapid prototypes, implement and present regular onscreen deliverables of all systems.
9. Evaluate features needed to improve and streamline implementation of gameplay systems.
10. Gather and act on game balance feedback with the aim of creating the best experience for all players.

Minimum Qualifications

1. 5+ years of design experience in the games industry.
2. Portfolio or work samples showcasing Narrative Design work.
3. Experience identifying system design issues and creating solutions.
4. Intermediate knowledge of Maya or another major 3D modeling program.
5. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and/or other demonstrable skill at organizing large datasets.
6. Experience communicating with cross-functional team members.
7. Gamer and daily gaming enthusiast.
8. Experience shifting focus as needed and changing priorities.
9. Familiarity working in VR.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience with combat and character mechanics and knowledge of game animation and game feel.
2. Working knowledge of C++, Blueprint, or XML scripting.
3. VR enthusiast following gaming trends within the Virtual Reality space.

For those who live in or expect to work from California if hired for this position, please click here for additional information.

$112,000/year to $161,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits

Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, fill out the Accommodations request form.

Apply for this job and take the first step toward a rewarding career at Meta.