Design Lead

About the Role: Eleventh Hour Games, the studio behind the action RPG Last Epoch, is looking for a Design Lead. You will develop and implement successful design strategies, partnering with discipline leads to ensure a well-managed and staffed team. This role is ideal for someone who craves ownership, has a deep understanding of ARPGs, and excels at mentoring designers to deliver maximum impact in a fully remote environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design team to define development timeframes, dependencies, and risk areas in project planning.
• Manage, coach, and mentor designers to grow their skills and ensure high-quality execution.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Producers, Engineers, and Artists to determine system mechanics and project specifications.
• Drive the end-to-end design pipeline from early concepting to post-launch iteration and seasonal experiences.
• Utilize team feedback, playtests, and data analysis to create actionable items for product improvement.
• Ensure design craft standards are upheld and contribute to Design Department processes like recruiting and performance assessment.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of industry experience in a leadership role.
• 3+ years of experience in specialized Game Design roles.
• Deep understanding of the Systems-based Action RPG genre (ARPG).
• Professional experience with management practices, team member feedback, and evaluation processes.
• Proficiency with project management software and a passion for mentoring individuals.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work autonomously in a fully remote team.
• Preferences: Demonstrable experience with Unity, extensive playtime in Last Epoch, and data-informed decision-making skills.

Why Join Us

• Work in a fast-growing studio focused on forging extraordinary games and passionate communities.
• Opportunity for ownership, professional development, and long-term growth.
• Join a remote-first culture that values transparency, innovation, and close-knit teamwork.