Game Designer (Remote Across Borders - Contractor)

Overview 

Arkadium is seeking an experienced Game Designer to join and support our top and most prestigious client, Microsoft, on a suite of top-performing games, where you'll play a crucial role in delivering exceptional gaming experiences. 

In this role, you will be responsible for designing casual games for Windows, mobile and web platforms.  You will work in support of multiple titles in the top casual genres and will take the lead in driving creative directions that puts the user at the center of the decision-making process. 

While this role is remote, candidates must be available to work standard hours from 09:00 to 18:00 in the Western European Time (WET) zone - (Portugal time zone), where most of the Engineering and Product teams are based. 

For all remote candidates not residing in Portugal, you will be onboarded as a contractor through our international payroll provider.

• Communicate, pitch, and prototype engaging core game mechanics; 
• Articulate strong visions and guidelines for content and level design to meet retention and revenue targets; 
• Add specific tasks on level design and content;  
• Collaborate with Game Producers, Engineers, Artists, and other key stakeholders to define project design specifications and system mechanics; 
• Manage game economies and develop monetization strategies in collaboration with product management; 
• Continuously optimize games for both short- and long-term retention, focusing on improving KPIs; 
• Ensure game quality aligns with Microsoft brand standards and customer satisfaction; 
• Contribute innovative design ideas across the Games portfolio; 
• Gather and analyze feedback from various sources to improve products and design processes; 
• Develop and maintain design documentation for all titles; 
• Advocate for best practices and standards across all game titles; 

Requirements:

• 3 to 5 years of casual/free-to-play industry experience;  
• 3 to 5 years' experience in Game Development, focused on Game Design; 
• Understanding of free-to-play game mechanics and current gaming trends; 
• Exceptional communication, analysis, and creative thinking skills; 
• Ability to own game design features from ideation through full production; 
• Proficiency in game design documentation and ability to clearly articulate features; 
• Strong project and time management skills to ensure on-time delivery; 

Nice to have:

• Experience with accessibility  
• Experience with UX/UI  

• Competitive compensation with structured performance and career development check-ins
• A unique culture of transparency, true teamwork and fun
• Paid time off is categorised as 40 flex days for the year
• Profit Sharing Plan/Bonus and additional budget for courses and conferences you are interested in
• Health Insurance