Principal Game Designer

We are creators of the hit survival-fantasy franchise State of Decay with a fan base of over 10 million players. As an independent member of Xbox Game Studios, we collaborate with a huge network of skilled specialists in all disciplines, providing incredible opportunities for joint development and learning.

Undead Labs is looking for a Principal Game Designer to join our State of Decay 3 team. We're seeking a passionate designer who can step in and provide strong design leadership for our Combat, Gameplay Systems and Vehicle teams.

The ideal candidate will be someone who is great at giving clear direction and mentorship, is highly organized, and is a strong communicator.

This role will be based in our Seattle, WA office. If you are currently located within the greater Seattle area or are open to relocation, we'd love to hear from you!

Core Responsibilities :

• Champion the vision for State of Decay 3 as defined by the Creative Director
• Provide direction to the Combat and Gameplay Systems teams on State of Decay 3
• Interface with and give feedback to our co-development partners on their contributions to State of Decay 3
• Review, give feedback, and approve design documents generated by members of your teams
• Collaborate with product owners and production to ensure roadmaps are clear, accurate, and up-to-date.
• Identify gaps or risks. Propose and pursue solutions and alignment with the Development Directors
• Participate in playtests and give feedback and direction with an eye towards quality and alignment with our vision for State of Decay 3
• Partner with UX design to consider holistic player experience and accessibility needs as it pertains to Combat, Gameplay Systems, and Vehicles
• Mentor and advise junior team members.
• Foster an inclusive environment focused on psychological safety, engagement, collaboration, accountability, and community.

Basic Qualifications :

• Extensive experience working collaboratively with other disciplines to build combat and gameplay systems
• Ability to see how each system in a game fits and supports an overall cohesive vision
• Experience with Unreal Engine (Blueprints).
• Solid interpersonal communication & collaboration skills.
• Ability to write clear and succinct design documentation.
• Passionate about developing and following high-functioning development processes.
• Shipped at least one title as a lead systems or lead combat designer, preferably a 3rd-person action or open world game.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Previous experience playing State of Decay 1 or 2 is a big plus.
• Experience in scripting AI, designing weapons and equipment, and designing player or creature abilities.
• Experience with combat and systems design in an open-world environment.
• Deep understanding of the post-apocalyptic survival-fantasy genre.

The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $190,000-$230,000 per year.

The range above reflects the potential base pay across the U.S. for this role (except as noted below); the applicable base range will depend on various factors, such as complexity and responsibility of the role, job duties / requirements, and relevant experience and skills.

Base pay ranges are reviewed and typically updated each year. Offers are made within the base pay range applicable at the time.

At Undead Labs, certain roles are eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases and an annual bonus. These awards are allocated based on individual performance.

Benefits / perks listed here may vary depending on the nature of employment with Undead Labs.

Benefits & Perks

Benefits / perks listed below may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Undead Labs and the state in which you work.

• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance
• Self Managed PTO and studio holiday closure in December
• 401k plan with 50% matching
• Subsidized transportation to and from work
• Professional growth resources
• Discounts on the Microsoft Games store

Physical Requirements

Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Close vision to monitors and screens, consistently working on computer equipment such as keyboards and monitors, long periods of sitting.
• Noise levels are low to moderate in the work environment.

Undead Labs is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.