Technical Cinematic Designer (Contract)

Archetype Entertainment is a game studio in Austin, Texas led by industry veterans from BioWare and other AAA studios. Archetype is a division of Wizards of the Coast. We are building a development team with world-class talent to create a new science fiction universe for our first multiplatform single-player roleplaying video game.

Our goal is to create the greatest story-driven roleplaying games in the world.

At Archetype, we believe there will always be a place for story-driven roleplaying games that put the player at the center of an epic personal narrative with impactful choices. We also believe that game studios should empower top developers and challenge them with bold projects that are shaped by a strong, clearly communicated creative vision.

We chose Austin because it is a great place to live and work. Austin is the capital of Texas and is a fast-growing city with a vibrant music scene, cosmopolitan culture, a premier university (the University of Texas at Austin -- “Hook ‘em Horns!”), and scenic rolling hills.

We seek a passionate, experienced, and collaborative Technical Cinematic Designer to help us build an outstanding game-of-the-year science fiction RPG. In this role, you will be responsible for implementing immersive dialogues and narrative moments in various areas of the game, including systemic camera setup, staging, and animation selection.

The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of storytelling, composition, and in-engine workflows. The candidate must have shipped at least 1 AAA title, ideally with non-linear cutscenes and a branching narrative.

A demo reel or portfolio showcasing previous design work is encouraged.

What You'll Do

• Set up and deliver data-driven “lightweight” dialogue scenes and gameplay-focused story elements, prioritizing consistency and efficient implementation at scale.
• Work closely with the production, narrative, cinematics, and design teams to ensure cohesive storytelling that fits seamlessly within the larger game experience.
• Use Unreal Engine and Archetype’s proprietary tools to script and integrate narrative elements directly within gameplay contexts.
• Creatively leverage existing modular animation and mocap assets to efficiently craft immersive performances and interactions.
• Balance creativity with technical efficiency, ensuring narrative elements are consistent, impactful, and achievable across the full scope of the project.
• Quickly iterate on feedback, refine implementation approaches, and adapt dynamically to shifting priorities or project needs.
• Ensure all implemented content aligns with the overall narrative, cinematics vision, and established aesthetic standards.

What You'll Bring

• 2+ years of experience as a Cinematic, Technical, or Narrative Designer with at least 1 shipped AAA digital game title.
• A balance of creative storytelling sensibilities and technical implementation skills.
• Experience with Unreal Engine or similar, particularly in scripting cinematic or narrative gameplay elements.
• Background or familiarity with branching dialogue, animation, and cinematic principles strongly preferred.
• Comfortable working autonomously and collaboratively within an agile production environment.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate effectively with QA, production, and narrative teams.
• Excellent time management, prioritization, and organizational abilities.
• Passion for expansive, story-focused RPGs

Compensation Range, Currency USD:

• Starting Hourly Pay Range: $35/hr
• Pay Range End: $80/hr

In compliance with local law, we are disclosing the compensation range for this role. The range listed is just one component of Wizards of the Coast’s total compensation package for employees. Employees may also be eligible for annual and long-term incentives. In addition, Wizards of the Coast provides a variety of benefits to employees. Here’s a look at what your benefits package may include: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Paid Vacation Time & Holidays, Generous 401(k) match, Paid Parental Leave, Volunteer Program, Employee Giving & Matching Gifts Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, Product Discounts, and more.

We are an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer

Wizards is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment. We are committed to making all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, marital status, or any other legally protected status.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and the requirements for satisfactory performance in this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of the duties, responsibilities, or requirements of the position.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. If you are selected to move forward in our application process and need to request an accommodation, please let your recruiter or coordinator know.