Cold Iron Studios is in search of a Lead Combat Designer to bolster our team in the development of a new sci-fi third-person action game. We are committed to delivering a visually compelling experience, underpinned by thoughtful narrative design and innovative gameplay.
This position is fully remote and open to applicants across the country.
The Lead Combat Designer will be integral in helping concept, design and implement all aspects of combat, from enemy design, enemy composition, combat setups and even helping define the spaces in which combat occurs. As the Lead, you’ll be helping support our combat design team and be responsible for ensuring combat encounters reach our gameplay targets.
In addition, as a member of our esteemed team, your expertise will serve as a guiding force, illuminating the path for your fellow teammates. Your role will extend beyond technical mastery, as you inspire and mentor teammates, fostering a culture of continuous growth to create a culture of excellence.

Responsibilities:

• Implement combat encounters, scripted events, and puzzle sequences using Unreal Blueprint scripting, ensuring they properly contribute to the intended player experience.
• Facilitate design & implementation of enemies, behaviors, abilities and combat focused game mechanics.
• Lead encounter play-testing sessions, reviews, and iteration, adjusting the encounter’s design and scripting based on gameplay feedback.
• Collaborate with the other contributing teams to create and refine our enemies look, feel, behaviors and combat abilities.
• Prioritize the combat team’s tasks effectively, meet deadlines, and maintain open communication with the Design Director on combat gameplay initiatives for the product.
• Adhere to and enforce strict scripting guidelines within the project's structure & help define or refine combat content pipelines.
• Coordinate with all departments, including outsourcing, audio, VFX, to ensure that every scripted moment and encounter is fully realized and enhances the level's overall impact.
• Provide creative feedback and technical guidance in accordance to design direction and the product goals.

Requirements:

• At least one shipped title as a Sr. Designer in a combat related role.
• Experience scripting combat gameplay and interactive sequences in action-adventure games and/or shooters.
• In-depth knowledge of Unreal Engine 4, especially its Blueprint scripting system.
• An aptitude for designing and implementing compelling combat experiences with unique setups.
• Skilled in using Unreal Engine for both blockmesh creation and scripting to streamline the level development and implementation process.
• Proficient in communicating complex ideas effectively and working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• The ability to lead combat team members towards delivering product goals while still supporting their own individual creativity and career development needs.

Education

No requirement.

Salary Range

$120,000-$150,000

Location

This position is fully remote and open to applicants across the country.

Please Note

At Cold Iron Studios, we're dedicated to creating narrative-driven, impactful games. We recognize that diversity brings richness to our work, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. This position offers a significant opportunity to shape the visual identity of our games and make a substantial contribution to our studio's success.

We invite you to apply and take part in crafting unforgettable gaming experiences.
Exceptional employee benefits, Remote work; 18 days PTO first year in addition to 11 paid holidays plus company-wide shutdown between Christmas and New Year’s Day; Robust Medical, Dental, Vision insurance coverage for entire family; Company matched 401k vested immediately; Flex Spending Accounts, annual stipend to help cover work from home expenses, ultra-creative environment.