Monday, May 24, 2010

JOB ALERT: LEVEL DESIGNER – NETDEVIL

NETDEVIL
Position Title:     Level Designer
Location:            NetDevil-Louisville / Denver, CO
Taleo Req Number: 362
Webpage:
http://www.netdevil.com/employment/

Description
NetDevil is at the forefront of game innovation and has grown to over 100 people in its 12 year history.

From the space combat MMOG, Jumpgate Evolution, to the highly anticipated LEGO Universe MMOG; our company’s passion for launching to new heights of creativity can be experienced in everything we do.

Denver, Colorado provides an incredible variety of year round recreation and entertainment within easy reach of our studio. Skiing, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and many other activities are all available at a cost of living that is a fraction of either coast. It’s no wonder Louisville, Colorado was voted the #1 place to live in 2009 by MONEY Magazine.

If you want to join a fun environment where we play as hard as we work and think you have what it takes to be a part of one of the most innovative MMO development studios in the world; come be a part of NetDevil.

The Level Designer will help create a series of level designs for a MMOG using a proprietary editor.  The Level Designer will help with design and implement high level game play to rapidly iterate and create fun game levels. A critical aspect of this level design process is adhering to input from the Design Director, Lead Level Designer and Art Director to ensure fun gameplay and strong visual aesthetics.

Essential Functions:

  • Responsible for the implementation of scenario maps within the constraints of social and gameplay systems and proprietary toolsets
  • Develop fun game flow with scale, performance and visuals in mind through rapid prototyping and iteration
  • Work closely with the Designer Director and Lead Level Designer to maintain a consistent level of excellence in all scenario maps and with the Art Director to develop visually stunning maps
  • Implement triggering, scripting and AI spawn manipulation under the guidance of the lead level designer, working with systems designers and gameplay programmers
  • Break down tasks and provide time estimates to project manager
  • Work with all types of development staff
  • Must participate in game playtest sessions
  • Position reports to Lead Level Designer

Abilities:

  • Skilled level designer, capable of implementing scenario designs from concept to shipping status
  • Proven background in height field & terrain manipulation, geometry, object and spawner placement
  • Proven ability to produce a focused level design with fun game play and impressive visuals
  • Able to think critically and diagnose problems in complex scripted events
  • Proven commitment to excellence
  • Excellent speaking, presentation and interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively on a team

Functional Knowledge:

  • Familiarity with level design techniques and concerns in an isometric camera view
  • Advanced skill with one or more game editor toolsets
  • Expert with common design and documentation tools such as MS Office, Visio, Sketchup, and Photoshop
  • Familiar with at least one scripting language
  • Familiarity with 3D modeling techniques and applications such as 3DS Max or Maya, a plus
  • Flash game development experience a plus
  • Deep understanding of game-industry systems and ability to clearly identify and replicate what makes them successful
  • Familiarity with Version Control Software (Ex. Alienbrain, Perforce, Subversion, Source Safe, etc.)
  • One or more game credits as a level designer preferred
  • MMO and/or fantasy game level/terrain design experience preferred

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
  • Demonstrable level design skill required, examples may be requested
  • Passion for games
  • Willing to relocate to Denver, CO area for full-time employment

Salary based on experience; 401k, health insurance, and other benefits provided