Senior Technical Game Designer - Systems & Mechanics

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Performance bonuses

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Technical Game Designer in Stellenbosch to lead the design and implementation of core gameplay systems within a real-time engine. You will prototype, iterate, and balance features while working with programmers, artists, and other designers to polish gameplay.

You will mentor junior designers, create thorough design documents, and stay abreast of industry trends to inform decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience in game design with focus on systems and mechanics.
• Experience designing and implementing complex game systems for shipped titles.
• Proficiency in scripting languages (Lua, Python, C#) for rapid prototyping.
• Strong understanding of development pipelines and tools (Unreal/Unity).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to balance.

Responsibilities

• Design, document, and prototype core game systems and mechanics.
• Collaborate with programmers to implement features with clear technical specs.
• Balance systems to create fair, engaging player experiences across difficulties.
• Create design documents, flowcharts, and spreadsheets to communicate intent.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to team growth.
• Conduct playtests, gather feedback, and iterate designs.

Skills

Game design

Lua scripting

Python scripting

C# scripting

Unreal Engine

Unity

Documentation

Mentoring

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Game Design

Tools

Unreal Engine Blueprints

Unity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative game studio located in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking a highly skilled Senior Technical Game Designer to contribute to their exciting new projects. This role focuses on the intricate design and implementation of game systems and mechanics, requiring a blend of creative design thinking and technical proficiency. You will work closely with programmers, artists, and other designers to prototype, iterate, and polish core gameplay features, ensuring they are engaging, balanced, and performant. The ideal candidate possesses a strong analytical mindset, excellent problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of game design principles within a real-time engine environment. This hybrid position offers the flexibility to work both remotely and within our collaborative studio space.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, document, and prototype core game systems and mechanics, ensuring they align with the overall game vision.
• Collaborate closely with programmers to implement and refine gameplay features, providing clear technical specifications.
• Balance game systems to create fair and engaging player experiences across different difficulty levels.
• Create and maintain design documents, flowcharts, and spreadsheets to communicate design intent.
• Work with level designers and artists to ensure mechanics integrate seamlessly with the game world.
• Conduct playtesting sessions, gather feedback, and iterate on designs based on observations and player input.
• Identify and troubleshoot gameplay bugs and system issues, working with the QA team.
• Stay informed about current trends and innovations in game design and mechanics.
• Mentor junior game designers and contribute to the overall design team's growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in game design, with a strong focus on systems and mechanics.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing complex game systems for shipped titles.
• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Lua, Python, C#) for rapid prototyping.
• Strong understanding of game development pipelines and tools (e.g., Unreal Engine Blueprints, Unity).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail and balance.
• Ability to communicate design ideas clearly through written documentation and verbal presentations.
• Experience working effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Passion for creating fun and compelling gameplay experiences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, performance-based bonuses, paid time off, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
• You will have the chance to work on innovative projects with a passionate and talented team.
• The hybrid work model provides a healthy work-life balance, allowing you to benefit from both remote flexibility and the collaborative energy of our studio in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.