Lead Designer

Climax is one of the leading creative lights of independent games development with an outstanding line of top published titles. It truly is an exciting and inspiring place to work in the heart of Edinburgh, overlooking the beautiful castle.

We are looking for an experienced Lead Designer to join our team, driving high-quality gameplay systems on AAA titles while supporting client collaboration and pitch development.

The Lead Designer will be required to work on-site and will report to the Design Director. This role requires a designer who is both creatively driven and technically grounded. Someone capable of leading a team, owning feature delivery, and working hands-on in-engine to bring ideas to life.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Lead Designer or Senior Designer on AAA titles
• Shipped multiple titles, with ownership of core gameplay systems or features
• Strong track record of driving design from concept through implementation to ship
• Deep understanding of gameplay systems, player experience, and iteration processes
• Confident working hands-on in engine (Unreal preferred, not required)
• Strong cross-discipline collaboration
• Experience working with external stakeholders or clients
• Ability to contribute to and present pitches and early concepts
• Comfortable challenging assumptions and advocating for the best player experience

Responsibilities

• Own and drive the design and delivery of key gameplay systems and features in alignment with the project vision
• Lead a team of designers, ensuring clarity, quality, and consistency of output
• Establish and maintain strong iteration loops, using playtesting and feedback to refine the experience
• Make clear, informed design decisions in evolving production environments
• Collaborate closely with engineering, art, and production to ensure feasible, high-quality implementation
• Identify risks, solve problems proactively, and ensure design work meets milestone expectations
• Create and maintain clear, actionable design documentation
• Conduct design reviews and provide constructive, actionable feedback
• Mentor designers while maintaining high standards and accountability
• Own client-facing design communication where required, supporting both development and new business opportunities
• Support the creation of pitches, prototypes, and vertical slices

Benefits

• Excellent holiday package
• Regular social events
• A friendly, focused, ambitious and relaxed working environment
• Ongoing training and development, with career progression
• Group Private Medical Insurance provided by BUPA
• Group Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Private Dental Insurance
• Group Income Protection
• Company Pension Scheme
• Cycle To Work Scheme
• Eye-Care Vouchers

Perks

• In-house clubs and socials. From board games, tennis, football to D&D nights, there are lots of opportunities to socialise.
• Regular Socials including Project Wrap Parties, team and studio events, Christmas and annual Summer parties and some great charity fundraising events.
  

Role Information: EN

Studio: Climax Studios

Location: Europe, United Kingdom, Edinburgh

Area of Work: Game Development

Service: Create

Service Type: Design

Employment Type: Permanent

Working Pattern: Full Time, Onsite

Keywords Studios is dedicated to following a well-established Equal Opportunities Policy. We endeavor to create a workplace which provides for equal opportunities for all employees and potential employees.

PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION POLICY

Keywords Studios is strongly committed to protecting your personal information. By sending your CV/Resume, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and consent to your data being managed and retained in accordance with our data privacy and retention policy https://www.keywordsstudios.com/en/applicant-privacy-notice/.