Lead UI/UX Designer, Unannounced Game | Irvine, CA at Activision-Blizzard

Irvine, California, United States

Activision-Blizzard Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Expert & Leadership (9+ years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
GamingIndustries

Requirements

  • 8+ years of experience in UI/UX design in the gaming or interaction design field
  • Proven experience leading design teams, with a track record of providing design direction, performance management, and professional development
  • Expert level understanding of hierarchy and layout design principles, UX process and usability design principles, color theory, and visual design
  • Proficiency in UX design tools (e.g., Figma, Miro, Photoshop), wireframing, prototyping, and user research methodologies
  • Expertise in AAA game engines with a solid understanding of art implementation and integration workflows
  • Demonstrable experience leading features and complex UI systems from concept through completion across multiple platforms with distinct inputs (PC and Mobile)
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Ability to conceptualize, pitch, and implement game concepts using various tools, technology, and visual language
  • Strong documentation philosophies and strategies to evangelize designs
  • Positive attitude and an ability to receive and provide objective feedback

Responsibilities

  • Build a world-class UI/UX team; hire, train, and mentor UI/UX designers
  • Craft rules and establish structures that set up the development team for success in designing exceptional user interfaces throughout the life of the game
  • Partner with user research teams to gather insights, identify pain points, and validate design decisions. Utilize data to inform and refine design strategies
  • Create wireframes and mockups for all game features, with a focus on intuitive design choices
  • Work closely with team members across art, audio, design, engineering, production, and sound to integrate user experience principles into all stages of game development
  • Develop understanding and use the game engine and supporting tools to both build layouts and communicate functional requirements to engineering
  • Regularly present work within your feature team to gather feedback toward refining the player experience
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to drive innovation

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

UI DesignUX DesignWireframingMockupsUser ResearchGame EngineTeam LeadershipHiringMentoringPrototyping

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the work arrangement for this role?

This role is anticipated to be a hybrid work position, with some work on-site and some work from home. The potential home studio is Irvine, CA.

What experience is required for this position?

Candidates need 8+ years of experience in UI/UX design in gaming or interaction design, proven experience leading design teams, expert understanding of hierarchy, layout, UX principles, color theory, and visual design, proficiency in UX tools like Figma and Miro, and expertise in AAA game engines.

What does the team value at Blizzard?

The team values creativity, collaboration, and a dedication to quality, and seeks contributors aligned to Blizzard's core values in a work environment that cultivates artistry and unleashes aspirations.

What will I be responsible for as Lead UI/UX Designer?

Responsibilities include building a world-class UI/UX team by hiring, training, and mentoring designers, crafting rules and structures for UI success, partnering with user research, creating wireframes and mockups, collaborating across teams, using game engines, presenting work, and staying current with trends.

What makes a strong candidate for this role?

A strong candidate has 8+ years in UI/UX design for games, proven leadership in design teams with track record in direction, performance management, and development, plus expertise in design principles, tools like Figma, and AAA game engines, and thrives in dynamic environments.

Activision-Blizzard

Develops and publishes interactive video games

About Activision-Blizzard

Activision Blizzard develops and publishes video games, creating popular franchises like World of Warcraft, Call of Duty, and Candy Crush. Their games are available on various platforms and cater to a wide range of players, from casual mobile users to serious console and PC gamers. The company generates revenue through game sales, in-game purchases, subscriptions for games like World of Warcraft, and advertising through Activision Blizzard Media. They also profit from merchandise and esports events. What sets Activision Blizzard apart from competitors is its focus on high-quality gaming experiences that promote community and social interaction among players. The company's goal is to provide engaging and immersive entertainment that connects gamers worldwide.

Santa Monica, CaliforniaHeadquarters
1979Year Founded
$975MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Entertainment, GamingIndustries
1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Holidays
Parental Leave
Mental Health Support
Wellness Program
Relocation Assistance

Risks

Employee morale issues due to layoffs could affect productivity and innovation.
Backlash from the Microsoft acquisition may impact game development and community trust.
Loss of key talent to competitors could weaken strategic capabilities.

Differentiation

Activision Blizzard boasts iconic franchises like Call of Duty and World of Warcraft.
The company excels in cross-platform play, enhancing player engagement and retention.
Activision Blizzard's esports division capitalizes on growing viewership and sponsorships.

Upsides

Microsoft's acquisition could provide resources for innovation and expansion.
Cloud gaming services offer a broader audience without high-end hardware needs.
Augmented reality gaming experiences present new opportunities for franchise expansion.

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