Lead Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay, Unity) - Volunteer Leadership Role

Lead Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay, Unity) The Donovan's Venom (501c3 Nonprofit) Department: Interactive Media Studio (Game Development) Location: Remote Position Type: Volunteer Leadership Role Reports To: Director of Interactive Media Studio / Game Development Position Overview The Lead Video Game Designer is responsible for designing and leading the development of core gameplay systems, progression mechanics, and player experience across game projects. This role owns how the game functions - from mechanics and systems to progression loops - ensuring gameplay is engaging, balanced, and aligned with the overall vision. Operating at the intersection of game design, systems thinking, and implementation within Unity , this role is critical to transforming concepts into structured, playable experiences. Key Responsibilities Gameplay Systems Design Design core gameplay systems, including: Mechanics Rules Player interactions Ensure systems are engaging, intuitive, and scalable Progression & Player Experience Design progression systems, including: Leveling Rewards Unlocks Create meaningful player progression and retention loops Game Balance & Tuning Balance gameplay systems to ensure fairness and engagement Adjust difficulty, pacing, and rewards Iterate based on testing and feedback Unity Implementation & Integration Work within Unity to: Implement gameplay systems Test mechanics Support prototyping Collaborate with developers on system integration Prototyping & Iteration Build and test gameplay prototypes Validate concepts through iteration Refine systems based on results Design Documentation Create and maintain: Game design documents (GDDs) System specifications Mechanics documentation Ensure clarity for development teams Cross-Functional Collaboration Work with: Developers (implementation) Artists (visual alignment) UX/UI teams (player experience) Ensure cohesive gameplay experience Team Leadership & Direction Guide and support other designers Provide feedback and direction Ensure consistency in design approach Systems Thinking & Architecture Design interconnected systems that: Scale Support gameplay loops Enhance player engagement Testing & Feedback Integration Participate in playtesting Analyze player feedback Adjust systems based on insights Problem-Solving & Constraints Adapt designs based on: Technical limitations Scope constraintsBalance creativity with feasibility Continuous Improvement Improve gameplay systems over time Stay current with game design trends Enhance overall player experience Volunteer Commitment Expectations Estimated Commitment: 15-20 hours per week Flexible schedule Participation in game development meetings required Fully remote Minimum Qualifications 3-5 years of experience in: Game design Systems design Gameplay development Experience with: Unity (or similar game engine) Strong understanding of: Game mechanics Progression systems Player experience Preferred Qualifications Experience leading or mentoring designers Experience working on shipped or completed game projects Experience in collaborative or remote development teams Core Competencies Systems & Gameplay Design Designs engaging and scalable gameplay systems Creates meaningful player experiences Progression & Balance Builds effective progression loops Balances gameplay and difficulty Unity & Implementation Translates design into playable systems Works effectively within game engines Leadership & Direction Guides design efforts Ensures consistency and quality Collaboration Works across design, development, and art Aligns systems with overall vision Problem Solving Adapts designs to constraints Iterates effectively Work Environment Fully remote Collaborative game development environment Fast-paced, creative, and iterative workflow Important Disclaimer This is a volunteer position and does not constitute employment. We are onboarding individuals who are ready to contribute immediately. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Donovan's Venom