Mobile Game Engineer (Volunteer)

About the role

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a New York City–based nonprofit empowering youth experiencing housing instability through mentorship, education, and community. Our work is grounded in dignity, consistency, and the belief that every child deserves to be seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain core gameplay systems and features
• Build and maintain reusable, scalable code frameworks
• Implement game mechanics, UI, animations, and physics
• Optimize performance for mobile platforms (iOS and Android)
• Collaborate with designers and artists to bring concepts to life
• Debug and fix bugs, ensuring a smooth player experience
• Ensure code quality through testing, profiling, and reviews

Requirements

• Experience developing and shipping mobile games or apps
• Strong understanding of game architecture and design patterns
• Experience with mobile optimization and performance tuning
• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git)
• Ability to write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code

Qualifications

• A problem-solver who can work independently and collaboratively
• Passion for games and player experience
• Strong communication skills and attention to detail

What We’re Looking For

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both the technical and creative sides of game development and is excited by mission-driven work.

Commitment

• Volunteer role
• Approximately 5–10 hours per week
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred
• Fully remote

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience developing a mission-driven educational game
• Collaboration with educators, researchers, and program leaders
• Professional references and letters of recommendation
• The opportunity to shape learning experiences for youth facing instability
• A meaningful role in advancing equity-centered education

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply directly through Idealist and submit:

• Resume (required)
• Cover letter (required) describing game development experience and interest in MAP’s mission
• Sample work (website, portfolio, etc.)