Head of Design / Design Director

Uma
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Posted
September 11, 2024
Full Time
GMT ± 4 hours
Hybrid

We are an early-stage startup on a mission to create entertainment experiences that are intentional about what they teach kids and teens. We are building a live service Multiplayer Sandbox game where players develop mathematical reasoning and creative problem solving skills. Think of a Minecraft meets Scratch. We are not after the “traditional” educational games, we are re-imagining the future of games and learning - Jonathan Blow said it better than we ever could. Today, we are playtesting and iterating on an early version of the game, focusing on deepening and expanding its core systems and mechanics. We are well funded, and our investors include Carina Initiatives, Riot Games and Dune Ventures

In this role, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our game and the company. Over time, you will wear many hats—visionary, hands-on designer, manager, strategist. This is a unique opportunity to lead and grow a small design team, while also contributing directly to the development of an ambitious live service game that’s both fun and meaningful.

 

What we are looking for

  • Passion for learning and interest in Mathematics 
  • Ability to do hands on design, and to manage a team
  • Experience leading the design of an ambitious title
  • Ability to move away from the well trodden path and venture into innovative gameplay ideas 
  • Capacity to empathize with kids and teens
  • Ability to design emergent and systemic gameplay 
  • Experience with live service games
  • At least half day overlap with UK time zone

 

Big plus

  • Experience designing multiplayer games 
  • Experience with kids as a target audience
  • Indie or startup experience  
  • Experience in education, pedagogy, or Mathematics
  • Programming and Prototyping skills in Unity 
  • UK based, or willing to relocate

 

What you’ll find

  • An interdisciplinary environment where design, development, maths and art cross-pollinate
  • Freedom to think outside the box and take risks/make mistakes 
  • A seat at the table in shaping the direction of the company and product
  • A diverse, safe, and modern work environment where we learn, teach and grow every day

We offer competitive compensation, including equity, and flexibility to work from anywhere with half day or more overlap with UK time.

 

How to Apply: If you’re interested in the position, click the apply button and fill out the form. Application rolling until filled.

 

Thank you!

About 
Uma

At Uma, we are building enriching entertainment experiences for Gen Alpha.

Our upcoming game, Project Marble, is inspired by mathematicians’ love for visual and playful maths, and fuelled by the curiosity and creativity of our playtesters.

In Project Marble, you inhabit a wild and alive natural world where you can thrive by solving challenges, crafting and building, either solo or with friends.

 

Our Team

We are a London-based startup with a small global team of creatives, game developers, mathematicians and pedagogues. What brings us together is our belief in the potential for games to create new learning opportunities for future generations.

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