Gaming Contract Hybrid

Associate Game Designer at Nintendo

Company: Nintendo

Location: Redmond, Washington, USA

Job Type: Contract

Salary: $34–$51 USD

About the Role

Nintendo Software Technology is seeking an Associate Game Designer to support the development of engaging and innovative gameplay experiences. This role is ideal for early-career designers passionate about game systems, prototyping, and refining gameplay mechanics within a collaborative development studio.

As part of the Nintendo family, the successful candidate will contribute to projects that emphasize creativity, player enjoyment, and Nintendo’s renowned quality standards.

Job Overview

The Associate Game Designer will assist in implementing gameplay features, building playable prototypes, and refining design concepts through iteration and playtesting. The role involves close collaboration with senior designers, artists, and production teams throughout the development process.

This hybrid role based in Redmond, WA requires regular onsite collaboration while contributing to various aspects of gameplay, level design, UI implementation, and documentation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prototype Development: Implement design concepts into playable prototypes using commercial game development tools and editors.
  • Gameplay Iteration: Revise and improve gameplay implementations quickly based on feedback and evolving project requirements.
  • Game Mechanics Support: Assist in maintaining gameplay systems, mechanics, and interactive features within projects.
  • User Interface Design: Contribute to UI implementation and support assigned localization tasks under senior design guidance.
  • Creative Collaboration: Communicate ideas with designers, artists, and development teams to gather feedback and maintain production alignment.
  • Documentation: Write and maintain game design documentation related to assigned features and gameplay systems.
  • Quality Assurance: Participate in reviewing, analyzing, and testing game features to meet Nintendo’s standards for quality and polish.

Qualifications

  • 0–2 years of experience in level design, gameplay design, or related game development work.
  • Understanding of interactive software methodologies and game production pipelines.
  • Experience using commercial 2D or 3D game editors such as Unity or Unreal Engine.
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to adapt to feedback and contribute effectively in a team-oriented production environment.

Education

  • Undergraduate degree in Game Design, Computer Science, or a related field preferred.
  • Studies in art, music, multimedia, film, or broadcasting are considered a plus.
  • Equivalent project experience or portfolio work may also be valuable.

Benefits

  • Medical insurance eligibility through the employing agency.
  • Employee assistance program support.
  • Paid sick leave benefits.
  • Collaborative and inclusive Nintendo studio culture.
  • Opportunity to contribute to globally recognized gaming experiences.

Nintendo Software Technology offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring game designers to build their skills while contributing to innovative interactive experiences. If you are passionate about gameplay systems, creative collaboration, and player-focused design, this role could be an excellent step forward in your gaming career.

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