Game Design and Production Associate

96693BR

Off-Campus: Scottsdale

Game Graphic Artist

Job Description

EdPlus at ASU is a dynamic unit of Arizona State University focused on the design and scalable delivery of digital teaching and learning models to increase student success and reduce barriers to achievement in higher education. We advance the economic, social, cultural, and overall health of the local, national, and international communities served by ASU.

We’re seeking a Game Design and Production Associate who will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and leading the implementation of engaging game mechanics, storylines, characters, and environments and integrating them into immersive experiences for web, XR, and mobile production. Your goal is to design and define experiences through a game design document to ensure our UX, 3D, content, and development teams have what they need to move forward in the production of these assets. You will utilize your understanding of player psychology and excellent design skills to create immersive experiences for ASU Online students and our partners.  Daily tasks/responsibilities include producing game design documents, leading and participating in design sessions, reviewing developed features, as well as implementing new processes for a more optimized game design workflow. 

This key role will work in tandem with 3D artists, content, development & UX design teams to facilitate the creation of visually striking and effective 3D experiences to conceptualize and execute exciting gaming experiences. The ideal candidate will have a robust knowledge of game design principles, including a strong understanding of game storytelling, mechanics and player interactions. We’re seeking individuals who blend creativity with analytical skills to solve problems in unique ways. The candidate should be a dynamic team player with outstanding communication skills and an interest in immersive technologies (AR,VR, Simulations/Game Design). EdPlus is a leader in online learning and global education. Our mission is to reimagine Online Learning and deliver education at scale and speed to everyone, everywhere.

Essential Duties

• Develop compelling game mechanics, storylines, characters, and environments
• Work closely with the team of UX designers, 3D artists, and developers to implement your designs
• Ensure the output of all teams meets our game design requirements. 
• Create balanced and engaging player interactions within the game
• Iterate and refine game designs based on user feedback and play testing
• Lead and participate in brainstorming and concept development for upcoming projects
• Stay updated with new tools, technologies, and trends in the gaming industry
• Work collaboratively with other designers and developers, using design thinking and best practices to help achieve project objectives
• Multitask and work in a high-paced environment.
• Assume or coordinate other duties or projects as assigned or directed.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Multimedia, Animation, Fine Arts, or in a related commercial arts field OR 4 years of experience in game art design.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience and understanding of game design principles and storytelling within the XR (Extended Reality) framework
• Familiarity with game engines (Unity, Unreal Engine) and 3D modeling software (Blender, Substance 3D Suite, Maya, Zbrush, etc.)
• Experience or interest in Immersive technologies (AR, VR, MR)
• Evidence of effective communication, both verbal and written
• Familiarity with concept development in XR, including the design of unique gameplay mechanics, narrative elements, and user experiences
• Experience in gameplay design, including the creation of core mechanics, rules, challenges, puzzles, levels, and character interactions.
• Experience in storytelling and narrative design, with a focus on creating captivating storylines, character development, and scripted events within XR environments
• Knowledge of user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design, including the creation of intuitive menus, and interactive elements within XR games or experiences
• A demonstrated history of iterative design and testing, with the ability to incorporate feedback, conduct playtests, and refine the XR experience based on user feedback
• Experience in using collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with artists, programmers, and other team members
• Ability to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in XR technology and the gaming industry, with the goal of incorporating cutting-edge techniques and design principles into your work
• Evidence of a bachelor's degree or higher in a related field

ASU offers a total compensation package that includes valuable employee benefits. Click here to explore options.

• Healthcare
• Financial Security
• Retirement
• Family Resources
• Tuition Reduction (Eligible ASU Employee, their dependents and spouse.)
• Discounts

Job Family

Information Technology

Department Name

EdPlus User Experience

Full-Time/Part-Time

Full-Time

VP Code

EdPlus at ASU

Scope of Search

Open

Grant Funded Position

This is a grant funded position. Continuation is contingent on future grant funding.

Salary Range

$65,000 - $80,000 per year; DOE

Close Date

17-November-2023

Category

02

Essential Duties

Please see above.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Multimedia, Animation, Fine Arts, or in a related commercial arts field OR 4 years of experience in game art design.

Desired Qualifications

Please see above.

Working Environment

EdPlus at ASU is located at SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center. The center houses a diverse business community that links technology, research, education, and entrepreneurship to position ASU and Greater Phoenix as global leaders in the knowledge economy.

Activities are primarily performed in a regular, climate-controlled office setting subject to extended periods of sitting or standing. Daily use of desktop or laptop computer is required. Ability to clearly communicate verbally in English, read, write, see, and hear to perform essential duties. Regular review of completed tasks.

EdPlus at ASU supports flexible work options, ranging from alternate work schedules to hybrid remote work schedules, subject to approvals per ASU policy.

Department Statement

EdPlus defines itself through a culture of curiosity, risk-taking and refusing to accept the status quo. As a central enterprise unit for ASU focused on the design and scalable delivery of digital teaching and learning models to increase student success and reduce barriers to achievement in higher education, our commitments support the university charter. ASU is a national service university and aspires to accelerate positive social outcomes through the seamless integration of cutting-edge technological innovation and scalability.
 
EdPlus employees are valued, respected, and encouraged to be their unique selves. We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in everything we do. We know that our ability to deliver high-quality services and educational experiences is strengthened by the diversity of our employees. Our innovative culture drives outcomes through serving learners, achieving milestones, striving for excellence, solving problems, feeling a sense of urgency, and being bold.

EdPlus at ASU

ASU Statement

Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 100,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe.

ASU is a tobacco-free university. For details visit https://wellness.asu.edu/explore-wellness/body/alcohol-and-drugs/tobacco

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

Notice of Availability of the ASU Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with federal law, ASU prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and resources. ASU’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at https://www.asu.edu/police/PDFs/ASU-Clery-Report.pdf. You may request a hard copy of the report by contacting the ASU Police Department at 480-965-3456.

Relocation Assistance – For information about schools, housing child resources, neighborhoods, hospitals, community events, and taxes, visit https://cfo.asu.edu/relocation-services.

Employment Verification Statement

ASU conducts pre-employment screening which may include verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications.

Background Check Statement

ASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check.

Instructions to Apply

Application deadline is 3:00PM Arizona time on the date indicated.

Please include all employment information in month/year format (e.g., 6/88 to 8/94), job title, job duties and name of employer for each position.

Resume and cover letter should clearly illustrate how prior knowledge and experience meets the Minimum and Desired qualifications of this position.

ASU does not pay for travel expenses associated with interviews, unless otherwise indicated.

Only electronic applications are accepted for this position.

Applicant must be eligible to work in the United States; EdPlus at ASU will not be a sponsor for this position.

IMPORTANT NOTE: What is the meaning of “equivalent combination” in the minimum qualifications? It means one year of higher education or 24 credit hours, is equal to one year of experience. For example, a four year Bachelor’s degree is equal to four years of experience.