Design Director Job at Skillsearch │ Games & Tech Jobs in Boston

Our client is working on a high-budget, AAA open world multiplayer title for PC & Console, developed in Unreal Engine 5. As Design Director, you will be tasked with defining the vision and shaping the culture of the design team. This is a hybrid role based in Boston and generous relocation assistance is available. The studio can be flexible with relocation if you cannot make the move straight away Responsibilities include: Lead and manage a team of design leads, establishing a clear vision, mentoring leadership, and fostering a collaborative and productive environment within the design department. Oversee the creation and delivery of a captivating AAA multiplayer experience, ensuring the highest design quality. Effectively present the team's work to internal stakeholders and external partners, maintaining clarity and impact. Define and communicate team objectives, balancing immediate project needs with long-term strategic goals. Partner with other directors and shared services teams to align on development processes, user experience research (UXR), and cross-functional knowledge sharing. Cultivate a culture that values and integrates feedback from diverse sources, including internal teams and external research and development (R&D). Drive design excellence through all phases of production, from initial concept to final execution. Champion the project vision by establishing and maintaining best practices and streamlined design processes. Qualifications: Industry Experience : At least 5 years of experience as a Lead Designer or Design Director in the gaming industry, with a preference for work on AAA action titles or multiplayer games with live operations components. Game Design Expertise : Comprehensive knowledge across various aspects of game design, with specialized expertise in third-person action games, multiplayer systems, or live operations. Leadership Skills : Proven ability to lead medium to large design teams, applying strong leadership principles with empathy and effectiveness. Shipped Titles : Must have shipped at least one AAA title in a leadership capacity. Creative Vision : Demonstrates creativity and curiosity, drawing inspiration from diverse experiences and encouraging the team to do the same. Player-Centric Design : Passionate about designing systems-based games that empower player agency and create meaningful world interactions. Refined Design Sensibilities : Possesses a keen eye for distinguishing between "good" and "great" design, ensuring resources are allocated effectively. UX Research Proficiency : Experience in managing User Experience Research (UXR) processes and interpreting data to inform design decisions. Travel Requirements : Willingness to travel periodically to Europe for HQ visits. Work Authorization : Must hold U.S. citizenship or a valid work permit.