Level Design Director

About Dambuster Studios

Originally founded in 1999 as Free Radical Design our ambition and passion comes through as strongly now as when we first began.  We are always seeking individuals who can emulate our values - passion, quality, and teamwork - which are embodied in our diverse and inclusive culture. 

Even if you’re not sure that you meet all the criteria for a role, don’t be put off from applying - we want to hear from you.  Our only requirement is that you work from the UK, and if the role requires you be on-site frequently we can discuss relocation to Nottingham (if the role requires this, it’s outlined in the advert below).  Our internal Wellbeing Committee and Mental Health First Aiders help ensure that our diversity is championed in a safe environment in our city centre studio.

 

Level Design Director

Dambuster Studios - creators of the number one BAFTA-nominated smash hit Dead Island 2 -  has an exciting opportunity for a Level Design Director to join our highly talented Design team.

This role is being offered on an in-studio or hybrid basis and will require the successful applicant to be able to attend the studio on a regular basis.

 

Role overview 

• Report to the Studio Design Director and partner with the Game Design Director to establish, maintain and evangelise the game’s design vision and how it manifests through its locations and quests.
• Oversee the successful translation of core game mechanics and systems into captivating and engaging player facing content.
• Demonstrate outstanding creativity and be a beacon of level design quality, principles and practical knowledge for the design team.
• Able to lead by example and prove design direction, picking up hands on, in editor work as required by the Studio Design Director to set benchmark content including, but not limited to quest design, world building, puzzle design and combat encounters. 
• Evangelise the core game pillars and studio design philosophies within the project owner group and maintain the level design department’s alignment to the game vision.
• A champion of rational design, ensuring a balanced distribution and evolution of game mechanics through the overall player experience. 
• Collaborate with the Production Director, Lead Project Manager and Production team to ensure the level design team are working within the defined scope of the product.
• A strong cross discipline collaborator, working alongside other department Directors to deliver game content to an exceptionally high standard. 

 

What we can offer you

• Core hours 9.30am – 4pm, remaining hours worked flexibly
• Relocation support to Nottingham, UK (if required)
• Holiday allowance that increases with service (to a maximum of 30 days plus statutory public holidays)
• Inclusion into the studio’s annual pay review (effective 1st July) following 12 months service
• Company pension contribution that increases with service
• Private Medical Insurance via AXA Health, including dental and optical cover
• Life Assurance Scheme via Zurich (x3 salary cover)
• Company enhanced full pay for maternity leave for the first 26 weeks (to qualifying expectant mothers)
• Clear career progression within Dambuster Studios
• Studio funded learning and development opportunities
• Modern game development environment with the latest technologies
• Vibrant, modern city centre location with good transport links
• Travel Loan Scheme for Nottingham-based employees
• Fully subsidised gym membership with Virgin gym (Nottingham)
• Quarterly company funded cross-team events such as our Annual Christmas Party, Summer Family BBQ and Teambuilding activities
• Free financial advice
• Employee referral bonus scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Weekly office treats, including breakfast on Monday and pastries on Friday

Responsibilities

• Inspire and develop the Lead Level Designers, managing their development and implement training strategies as appropriate.
• Regularly review and feedback on all level design content, including, but not limited to quests, world building and distribution of core mechanics.
• Prioritise level design work efficiently, inline with the game pillars and studio design philosophies. 
• Document and maintain level design documentation, including standards and best practices.
• Quickly identify and resolve or escalate any departmental, or cross departmental challenges.
• Participate in long term strategic planning for the business.
• Support the Studio Design Director in fostering a fun, vibrant working environment.
• Support the Studio Design Director in empowering the level design leads.
• Any other duties as might be reasonably requested from the Studio Management team.

Requirements

• At least four published AAA or critically acclaimed AA games, with at least one in a Director or Associate Director role
• Experience in the Action RPG or Action-Adventure genre
• 5+ years’ experience leading a team and directing content, ideally with UE5
• Able to manage creative flair and expert level design principles with pragmatism and practical constraints
• Strong passion for immersive sandbox games.
• A deep understanding of pacing, player mechanics and gameplay systems
• Ability to sell a vision
• Excellent communication skills 
• Ability to work efficiently in a cross-discipline environment
• A deep knowledge of the games industry
• A champion of holistic, efficient design 

 

Equal Opportunities Statement

Dambuster Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Anyone considering their next step in their career journey with Dambuster will receive consideration without regard to gender (including gender identity, gender expression and gender reassignment), race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, marital or civil partnership status, disability, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity or paternity, or membership in any other legally protected category.  We strive to create an inclusive environment, empower employees, and embrace diversity. We encourage everyone to apply.

We operate a transparent recruitment process that removes barriers for those who require reasonable adjustments.  If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment or onboarding process, or if you are successful in securing a position with us, please let us know what we can do to ensure your success.