Category Manager- Scratchers Analytics and Game Development

The California State Lottery is looking to fill the exciting role of a Category Manager- Scratchers Analytics and Game Development!

Join Our Team as a Category Manager – Scratchers Analytics & Game Development. Make a difference. Drive innovation. Shape the future of Lottery games. Are you passionate about data-driven decision-making and creative product development? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where your work directly contributes to public education funding? If so, we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity! Under the guidance of the Supervisor II and in partnership with the Senior Category Manager – Scratchers, the Category Manager – Scratchers Analytics & Game Development plays a key role in shaping the future of our Scratchers product portfolio.

What You’ll Do:

Lead Game Development: Drive the strategy, planning, and execution of new Scratchers games—from concept to launch—ensuring alignment with business goals and player preferences.

Analyze & Optimize: Monitor sales performance, conduct in-depth data analysis, and deliver actionable insights to enhance product mix and maximize revenue.

Collaborate Across Teams: Work closely with vendors, Sales & Marketing Units, Finance, and Business Planning to bring innovative games to market.

Manage Inventory & Fulfillment: Forecast and manage inventory levels, ensuring timely and accurate game orders and reorders.

Own the Product Lifecycle: Serve as the project manager for game development and research initiatives, overseeing prize structures, playstyles, themes, and segmentation strategies.

Why This Role Matters:

Your work directly supports the Lottery’s mission to generate supplemental funding for California’s public schools. By developing a diverse and engaging Scratchers portfolio, you’ll help drive sales and create meaningful impact across the state.

What We’re Looking For:

A strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and a passion for product development.

A collaborative team player who can manage complex projects and communicate effectively across departments.

A marketing professional ready to take ownership of high-impact initiatives in a dynamic, purpose-driven environment.

If this opportunity would be a good fit for you, we encourage you to apply today and join our winning team!

People are drawn to the California State Lottery because we:

• We have a worthy mission that we’re sure you’ll take pride in too.
• Are an energetic, creative, and talented team
• Value diversity and inclusion in the workplace
• Empower team members to bring their knowledge, expertise, and innovation
• Recognize individual and team contributions
• Support the importance of work-life balance
• Invest in the professional development of our team members
• Are dedicated to preserving our environment by lowering our carbon footprint

The California Lottery is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise headquartered in Sacramento. It is one of the few state agencies that is a revenue generator, not accepting taxpayer dollars from the state’s general fund. Our mission is to provide supplemental funding to California schools while simultaneously supporting local communities. Ninety-five cents of every dollar spent by players goes back to local communities in the form of contributions to public schools and colleges, prizes and retailer compensation.

In fiscal year 2023-24, the California Lottery provided over $2 billion in supplemental funding for California public schools, bringing the total contributions to more than $46 billion since we began in 1985. Lottery products are sold at more than 23,000 retail locations throughout the state. Product offerings include an average of 52 fun and entertaining Scratchers games and several draw games such as Powerball, Mega Millions, and SuperLotto Plus and daily games such as Fantasy 5 and Hot Spot.

This position requires a current Marketing Specialist exam. If you need to take the exam or if your score has expired, click here to gain list eligibility.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Working Conditions:

Majority of work conducted in modern, climate-controlled office setting; overtime and travel (including overnight statewide travel) may be required.

Desirable Qualifications

• Holds a bachelor’s degree, preferably with a specialization in marketing, communications, or related field.
• Minimum 3 yrs of Strong Analytical and Quantitative Skills with ability to analyze sales data, identify trends, and generate actionable insights using business analytics tools.
• Minimum 3 yrs of Market Research and Consumer Insights analysis experience with ability to design, conduct, and analyze research to inform product development and marketing strategies.
• Minimum 3 yrs experience in Strategic Thinking and Product Planning with experience in developing and executing product plans, including game design, pricing, and positioning.
• Minimum 3 yrs experience of Inventory Management and Supply Chain Knowledge with experience in forecasting, ordering, and managing inventory levels based on historical data and sales trends.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, including product development and cross-functional coordination working effectively with both internal and external teams.
• Skilled in preparing and delivering clear reports, presentations, and updates to various stakeholders.
• Understanding of Scratchers products, game mechanics, and the regulatory environment.
• Ability to generate new game ideas, assess feasibility, and align with industry trends and consumer preferences.
• Skilled in maintaining accurate records, game specifications, and research libraries.

*Important Note: A Statement of Qualifications is required to submit with your application package in order to be considered.

For more information about this opportunity, benefits, and instructions on how to apply -- click the Apply button.