Lead Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay, Unity) - Volunteer Role

The Donovan's Venom, INC. Is a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization dedicated to taking music, art, and entertainment to those who need it the most. The Donovan's Venom, INC. Caters to no particular individual(s) yet pledges relief to impaired or deprived individuals who are in need of musical,visual, comedic, and-or any alternative forms of liberation-through fine art & entertainment. The Donovan's Venom INC. Gives its resources to individuals who don't have the means or access. , The Donovan’s Venom is a 501c3 nonprofit organization focused on curating universal accessibility to fine arts and music education for all. We are passionately dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, has access to high-quality music education, performance opportunities, and fine art. We aim to inspire, empower, and uplift communities by fostering a love for music and the arts through our commitment to education, inclusivity, diversity, and social impact, which drives us to expand our reach continually and enrich the lives of those we serve. Lead Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay, Unity) Position Overview The Lead Video Game Designer is responsible for designing and leading the development of core gameplay systems, progression mechanics, and player experience across game projects. This role owns how the game functions—from mechanics and systems to progression loops—ensuring gameplay is engaging, balanced, and aligned with the overall vision. Operating at the intersection of game design, systems thinking, and implementation within Unity, this role is critical to transforming concepts into structured, playable experiences. Key Responsibilities Gameplay Systems DesignDesign core gameplay systems, including MechanicsRulesPlayer interactionsEnsure systems are engaging, intuitive, and scalableProgression & Player ExperienceDesign progression systems, including LevelingRewardsUnlocksCreate meaningful player progression and retention loopsGame Balance & TuningBalance gameplay systems to ensure fairness and engagementAdjust difficulty, pacing, and rewardsIterate based on testing and feedbackUnity Implementation & IntegrationWork within Unity to Implement gameplay systemsTest mechanicsSupport prototypingCollaborate with developers on system integrationPrototyping & IterationBuild and test gameplay prototypesValidate concepts through iterationRefine systems based on resultsDesign DocumentationCreate and maintain Game design documents (GDDs)System specificationsMechanics documentationEnsure clarity for development teamsCross-Functional CollaborationWork with Developers (implementation)Artists (visual alignment)UX/UI teams (player experience)Ensure cohesive gameplay experienceTeam Leadership & DirectionGuide and support other designersProvide feedback and directionEnsure consistency in design approachSystems Thinking & ArchitectureDesign interconnected systems that ScaleSupport gameplay loopsEnhance player engagementTesting & Feedback IntegrationParticipate in playtestingAnalyze player feedbackAdjust systems based on insightsProblem-Solving & ConstraintsAdapt designs based on Technical limitationsScope constraintsBalance creativity with feasibilityContinuous ImprovementImprove gameplay systems over timeStay current with game design trendsEnhance overall player experience Volunteer Commitment Expectations Estimated Commitment 15-20 hours per weekFlexible scheduleParticipation in game development meetings requiredFully remote Minimum Qualifications 3–5 years of experience in Game designSystems designGameplay developmentExperience with Unity (or similar game engine)Strong understanding of Game mechanicsProgression systemsPlayer experience Preferred Qualifications Experience leading or mentoring designersExperience working on shipped or completed game projectsExperience in collaborative or remote development teams Core Competencies Systems & Gameplay Design Designs engaging and scalable gameplay systemsCreates meaningful player experiences Progression & Balance Builds effective progression loopsBalances gameplay and difficulty Unity & Implementation Translates design into playable systemsWorks effectively within game engines Leadership & Direction Guides design effortsEnsures consistency and quality Collaboration Works across design, development, and artAligns systems with overall vision Problem Solving Adapts designs to constraintsIterates effectively Work Environment Fully remoteCollaborative game development environmentFast-paced, creative, and iterative workflow Important Disclaimer As a 100% volunteer-led U.S. nonprofit organization, we may engage volunteers located outside the United States. International volunteer participation is subject to applicable U.S. sanctions and export-control requirements, data privacy and information-security requirements, background screening where appropriate, and confirmation that the volunteer’s country and assigned responsibilities have been approved by the organization. This is a volunteer position and does not constitute employment.