Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Niantic, Inc.
Job overview
The Senior Game Designer at Niantic, Inc. is responsible for creating engaging gameplay experiences for Pokémon GO, influencing live operations and new game mechanics to enhance player enjoyment and exploration.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves collaborating across teams to design and launch game features and seasonal events, using player data and feedback to refine gameplay, advocating for player-first designs, and ensuring high-quality, innovative game features that align with company goals.
Compensation and benefits
The position offers a base salary range of $121,500 to $135,000, plus bonus, equity, and benefits, with compensation varying by location and experience.
Experience and skills
Candidates need 5+ years in live operation mobile game design, 2+ years mentoring experience, strong communication skills, expertise in data and documentation, and familiarity with Pokémon GO; bilingualism, JIRA, Unity, AR experience, and leadership training are preferred.
Career development
The company supports professional growth through leadership opportunities, cross-functional collaboration, and exposure to innovative AR technologies and industry trends.
Work environment and culture
Niantic values diversity, inclusion, intellectual curiosity, and a hybrid work model that balances remote and in-office collaboration to foster creativity and community.
Company information
Niantic, Inc. is a leader in augmented reality gaming, known for Pokémon GO and its Lightship platform, with global offices and a mission to create engaging spatial computing experiences.
Team overview
The candidate will join the Pokémon GO team, working closely with internal and external stakeholders, including IP holders, in a supportive and cohesive design environment.
Job location and travel
Niantic operates hybrid work schedules with offices in San Francisco, Sunnyvale, Bellevue, London, Tokyo, and Zürich, allowing a mix of remote and in-office work.
Application process
Applicants submit their job application in accordance with Niantic's Privacy Notice, consenting to data processing as required by law during the hiring process.
Unique job features
This role offers the chance to work on a globally popular AR game with cutting-edge technology and a strong emphasis on player engagement and brand integrity.
Company overview
Niantic is a leading augmented reality (AR) company known for creating popular mobile games like Pokémon GO and Ingress. They generate revenue through in-app purchases, sponsorship deals, and partnerships with various brands and organizations. Founded in 2010 as an internal startup within Google, Niantic spun out as an independent company in 2015. Their focus on combining AR technology with real-world exploration has positioned them at the forefront of the AR gaming industry.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to emphasize extensive experience designing live operation mobile games, showcasing your ability to ship new game features and balance game mechanics, particularly in free-to-play models.
Highlight your expertise in cross-functional collaboration, player-first design advocacy, and your skills in creating detailed design documentation including wireframes, flows, and data-driven specs.
Apply through multiple platforms such as Niantic's official careers page, LinkedIn, and other job boards where Niantic posts, to maximize your application visibility and reach.
Connect on LinkedIn with current Niantic game designers or team leads, using ice breakers like commenting on recent Pokémon GO updates, asking about their experience working with live ops events, or expressing enthusiasm for Niantic’s AR technology and emerging features.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'live operation games,' 'game balance,' 'player feedback,' 'cross-functional collaboration,' and 'game monetization,' ensuring your resume passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored resume customization, identify multiple application channels, and find relevant LinkedIn contacts to network with, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and improving your portfolio.
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