Lead Designer

The Lead Designer will be required to work on-site and will report to the Design Director. This role requires a designer who is both creatively driven and technically grounded. Someone capable of leading a team, owning feature delivery, and working hands-on in-engine to bring ideas to life.,

• Own and drive the design and delivery of key gameplay systems and features in alignment with the project vision
• Lead a team of designers, ensuring clarity, quality, and consistency of output
• Establish and maintain strong iteration loops, using playtesting and feedback to refine the experience
• Make clear, informed design decisions in evolving production environments
• Collaborate closely with engineering, art, and production to ensure feasible, high-quality implementation
• Identify risks, solve problems proactively, and ensure design work meets milestone expectations
• Create and maintain clear, actionable design documentation
• Conduct design reviews and provide constructive, actionable feedback
• Mentor designers while maintaining high standards and accountability
• Own client-facing design communication where required, supporting both development and new business opportunities
• Support the creation of pitches, prototypes, and vertical slices
  
  Proven experience as a Lead Designer or Senior Designer on AAA titles
• Shipped multiple titles, with ownership of core gameplay systems or features
• Strong track record of driving design from concept through implementation to ship
• Deep understanding of gameplay systems, player experience, and iteration processes
• Confident working hands-on in engine (Unreal preferred, not required)
• Strong cross-discipline collaboration
• Experience working with external stakeholders or clients
• Ability to contribute to and present pitches and early concepts
• Comfortable challenging assumptions and advocating for the best player experience
  
  Climax is one of the leading creative lights of independent games development with an outstanding line of top published titles. It truly is an exciting and inspiring place to work in the heart of Edinburgh, overlooking the beautiful castle., Climax Studios offers 30+ years of experience and expertise across all aspects of game development. Whatever the platform or format, whether providing full-game services or tech problem-solving, the award-winning Climax team of graphic artists, engineers and developers collaborates responsively with our clients and partners to deliver world-beating results on every project.
  
  Excellent holiday package
• Regular social events
• A friendly, focused, ambitious and relaxed working environment
• Ongoing training and development, with career progression
• Group Private Medical Insurance provided by BUPA
• Group Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Private Dental Insurance
• Group Income Protection
• Company Pension Scheme
• Cycle To Work Scheme
• Eye-Care Vouchers
Perks
• In-house clubs and socials. From board games, tennis, football to D&D nights, there are lots of opportunities to socialise.
• Regular Socials including Project Wrap Parties, team and studio events, Christmas and annual Summer parties and some great charity fundraising events., Training Provided
• Regular team and company events
• Free drinks, fruit or food
• Flexible working
• Private Medical/Dental healthcare
• Bonus/Reward Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Paid Overtime
• Game Jams