Role OverviewWe're looking for a Principal/Lead Designer to work on a Simulation Game. This is a highly hands‑on role, with more than ninety percent of your time spent directly in the build, leading prototyping, gameplay, and practical design work. You will contribute to and strengthen the ambition of our internally developed simulation games, focusing on systems that turn everyday work into rich, shareable play and eventually lead a small team of designers. You will work closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to build imaginative and replayable simulation games that connect with players, always balancing believability with fun.Key ResponsibilitiesLead PrototypingYou are responsible for driving prototyping in the studio, shaping how we explore ideas and discover what makes our sims fun. You will work with a build‑first mentality, using quick, hands‑on gameplay tests to steer the project's direction and highlight what deserves to move forward. Strong gameplay instincts and a practical, solutions‑first mindset are essential.Prototypes that deliver clear, accessible, and engaging mechanics and systemsFast, focused iteration with daily builds, feedback, and rapid adjustmentsQuickly validating or discarding ideasSpotting promising new directions for mechanics and systems to investigateUsing tools to aid discovery, from rough hacks to new technologiesLead DesignYou are responsible for the design of our games, taking a high‑level vision and our studio pillars and turning them into compelling gameplay, features, and content that feel intuitive and satisfying. You will work closely with the team to shape strong core loops, clear player experiences, and progression that supports "instant joy, lasting engagement." This is a versatile, hands‑on role, moving between systems design, UX, and rapid gameplay iteration.Clear design pillars that guide each game in developmentSystems and loops that are fun, approachable, and support replayabilityDesign decisions grounded in rapid prototyping and real player feedbackContent produced efficiently without compromising player valueGames that create joy and land at eighty‑five percent or higher on SteamRecruiting & Managing Design TeamAs the game grows, you will be responsible for recruiting and managing a small but world‑class design team. We anticipate this being 3–4 hires over the coming couple of years, supported by a network of contractors who increase our leverage. You will also help foster healthy collaboration across Tech, Art, and Production so ideas move smoothly from concept to in‑build work, and the team can deliver cohesive, player‑focused experiences.A design team, supported through onboarding, mentoring, and daily leadershipDesigners who feel aligned, empowered, and able to do their best workSeamless collaboration between design, technical, and art teamsA reliable network of contractors who can provide targeted support, such as level designA studio culture shaped by curiosity, iteration, and shared ownershipRequirementsExperience leading design on simulation, sandbox, or systems‑driven gamesAbility to translate high‑level ideas into practical, in‑build gameplay workAbility to balance real‑world authenticity with gamified funExcellent communication skills that help make designs clear, concise, and inspiringComfortable operating in lean, agile environmentsComfortable with creative acceleration tools and staying hands‑onA genuine love for sims and for turning everyday life into extraordinary playLocated within a UK/EU timezoneBenefitsOur benefits include a 2‑week company summer break and a 2‑week winter break to rest and recharge, in addition to your normal holiday allowance. #J-18808-Ljbffr