Combat Designer
Austin, TX · On-site
$153K/yr
As a Combat Designer, you will play a key role in shaping the game's combat experience. You'll collaborate closely with the Lead Combat Designer and cross-disciplinary leads to define and implement ...
Combat Designer
Austin, TX · On-site
$153K/yr
As a Combat Designer, you will play a key role in shaping the game's combat experience. You'll collaborate closely with the Lead Combat Designer and cross-disciplinary leads to define and implement ...
Combat Designer
Raleigh, NC · On-site
AGBO is looking for a Combat Designer to be hands-on in designing and implementing the moment-to-moment gameplay that defines how our games feel in action. You're a system-savvy, feel-first designer ...
Quick apply
Combat Designer
Raleigh, NC · On-site
AGBO is looking for a Combat Designer to be hands-on in designing and implementing the moment-to-moment gameplay that defines how our games feel in action. You're a system-savvy, feel-first designer ...
Lead Combat Designer
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$109K - $205K/yr
Mentor and manage combat designers. Who We Look For * 10+ years of experience in combat design, including senior, principle or lead experience. * Extensive experience in tuning and balancing firearms.
Lead Combat Designer
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$109K - $205K/yr
Mentor and manage combat designers. Who We Look For * 10+ years of experience in combat design, including senior, principle or lead experience. * Extensive experience in tuning and balancing firearms.
Lead Combat Designer
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$109K - $205K/yr
Mentor and manage combat designers. Who We Look For * 10+ years of experience in combat design, including senior, principle or lead experience. * Extensive experience in tuning and balancing firearms.
Lead Combat Designer
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$109K - $205K/yr
Mentor and manage combat designers. Who We Look For * 10+ years of experience in combat design, including senior, principle or lead experience. * Extensive experience in tuning and balancing firearms.
Combat Designer
Raleigh, NC · On-site
AGBO is looking for a Combat Designer to be hands-on in designing and implementing the moment-to-moment gameplay that defines how our games feel in action. You're a system-savvy, feel-first designer ...
Combat Designer
Raleigh, NC · On-site
AGBO is looking for a Combat Designer to be hands-on in designing and implementing the moment-to-moment gameplay that defines how our games feel in action. You're a system-savvy, feel-first designer ...
Combat Designer
Raleigh, NC · On-site
AGBO is looking for a Combat Designer to be hands-on in designing and implementing the moment-to-moment gameplay that defines how our games feel in action. You're a system-savvy, feel-first designer ...
Combat Designer
Raleigh, NC · On-site
AGBO is looking for a Combat Designer to be hands-on in designing and implementing the moment-to-moment gameplay that defines how our games feel in action. You're a system-savvy, feel-first designer ...
Designer, Combat
$47K - $88K/yr
The Job The Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design, with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
Designer, Combat
$47K - $88K/yr
The Job The Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design, with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$159K/yr
The Combat Designer will contribute to game design focusing on combat and gameplay, collaborating with the team to implement and maintain combat systems. Responsibilities : • Establishes and ...
Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$159K/yr
The Combat Designer will contribute to game design focusing on combat and gameplay, collaborating with the team to implement and maintain combat systems. Responsibilities : • Establishes and ...
Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$47K - $88K/yr
The Job The Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design, with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$47K - $88K/yr
The Job The Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design, with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
Senior Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$89K - $166K/yr
The Job The Senior Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
Senior Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$89K - $166K/yr
The Job The Senior Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
Senior Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$89K - $166K/yr
The Job The Senior Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
Senior Designer, Combat
Chicago, IL · On-site
$89K - $166K/yr
The Job The Senior Combat Designer will be responsible for significant contributions to game design with a focus on combat, moment-to-moment gameplay, and character implementation. Alongside Lead and ...
This role is tailor made for a technically capable gameplay combat designer who can comfortably play with conceptual models and then outline implementation approaches based on established gameplay ...
This role is tailor made for a technically capable gameplay combat designer who can comfortably play with conceptual models and then outline implementation approaches based on established gameplay ...
Gunfire Games is seeking a Combat Designer (Associate, Mid-Level, Senior, or Principal) to focus primarily on designing and implementing engaging combat experiences for our upcoming titles. In this ...
Quick apply
Gunfire Games is seeking a Combat Designer (Associate, Mid-Level, Senior, or Principal) to focus primarily on designing and implementing engaging combat experiences for our upcoming titles. In this ...
Senior Combat Designer (Encounters)
Novato, CA · On-site
$100K - $148K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will be responsible for scripting and shaping unforgettable encounters throughout the world of BioShock 4. You will set the standard for what ...
Senior Combat Designer (Encounters)
Novato, CA · On-site
$100K - $148K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will be responsible for scripting and shaping unforgettable encounters throughout the world of BioShock 4. You will set the standard for what ...
Senior Combat Designer (Encounters)
Novato, CA · On-site
$100K - $148K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will be responsible for scripting and shaping unforgettable encounters throughout the world of BioShock 4. You will set the standard for what ...
Senior Combat Designer (Encounters)
Novato, CA · On-site
$100K - $148K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will be responsible for scripting and shaping unforgettable encounters throughout the world of BioShock 4. You will set the standard for what ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
Novato, CA · On-site
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
Novato, CA · On-site
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
Novato, CA · On-site
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
Novato, CA · On-site
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Senior Combat Designer (Encounters)
Novato, CA · On-site
$100K - $148K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will be responsible for scripting and shaping unforgettable encounters throughout the world of BioShock 4. You will set the standard for what ...
Senior Combat Designer (Encounters)
Novato, CA · On-site
$100K - $148K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will be responsible for scripting and shaping unforgettable encounters throughout the world of BioShock 4. You will set the standard for what ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
Novato, CA · On-site
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)
Novato, CA · On-site
$119K - $128K/yr
As a Senior Combat Designer at Cloud Chamber, you will collaborate with an innovative team of designers, artists, and engineers to create industry-leading AI characters and combat gameplay. You will ...
Combat Designer information
See salary details
$21.5K - $29.7K
9% of jobs
$29.7K - $38K
1% of jobs
$44.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$38K - $46.2K
20% of jobs
$46.2K - $54.4K
12% of jobs
The median wage is $60.4K / yr.
$54.4K - $62.6K
12% of jobs
$62.6K - $70.9K
17% of jobs
$76.2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$70.9K - $79.1K
7% of jobs
$79.1K - $87.3K
4% of jobs
$87.3K - $95.5K
7% of jobs
$95.5K - $103.8K
4% of jobs
$103.8K - $112K
6% of jobs
$21.5K
$65.4K
$112K
How much do combat designer jobs pay per year?
As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat designer in the United States is $65,444.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a Combat Designer do?
A Combat Designer is responsible for creating, balancing, and refining the combat mechanics in a game. They design enemy behaviors, player abilities, weapon systems, and encounter pacing to ensure engaging and fair gameplay. This role involves extensive collaboration with animators, programmers, and other designers to bring combat systems to life. Playtesting and iteration are crucial parts of the job to fine-tune mechanics for an optimal player experience.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Combat Designer position, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Combat Designer, a solid background in game design, understanding of gameplay mechanics, and proficiency in balancing combat systems are essential, often supported by a degree in game development or related experience. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal, scripting languages, and prototyping tools is typically required. Strong communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving skills help Combat Designers excel within multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure engaging and balanced combat experiences that enhance overall game quality and player satisfaction.
What are typical daily responsibilities for a Combat Designer in a game development studio?
As a Combat Designer, your daily responsibilities will often include designing and tweaking combat mechanics, creating and maintaining documentation, and prototyping new features or enemy behaviors. You’ll collaborate closely with artists, animators, and programmers to ensure combat elements are well-integrated and functioning as intended. Playtesting and collecting feedback to balance combat encounters is also a key part of the role. Additionally, you may participate in team meetings to discuss design goals and align on the overall vision for the project.
More about Combat Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Combat Designer jobs? Cities with the most Combat Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Combat Designer jobs? The most popular types of Combat Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Combat Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Combat Designer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Combat Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Combat Designer jobs are:
$153K/yr
Part-time
Re-posted 28 days ago
Job description
At Blind Squirrel Games, creating exceptional games is just the start. As a proud, independent studio, we collaborate with developers and publishers who value innovation and excellence, serving as a trusted partner in bringing high-quality games to life.
Our people are central to our success, and we foster a dynamic, curious, and collaborative environment where individuals are empowered to take initiative and make a meaningful impact.
With studios in Irvine, California; Austin, Texas; Auckland, New Zealand; and Manizales, Colombia, we bring together global talent to build premium, cutting-edge games. Guided by the Blind Squirrel Way, our teams operate with a strong sense of ownership, accountability, and collaboration to continually raise the bar.
This is a full-time position based in Austin, TX, with a fully onsite requirement at our studio campus.
As a Combat Designer, you will play a key role in shaping the game's combat experience. You'll collaborate closely with the Lead Combat Designer and cross-disciplinary leads to define and implement everything from enemy and weapon types down to attack collision volumes, impact frames, damage balancing and application etc. to make combat fun.
You will actively prototype, iterate, and refine core combat systems to meet BSG's exacting standards for quality and feel, embodying the principles of the Blind Squirrel Way throughout the process.
Responsibilities
• Design and implement character behaviors via scripting, behavior trees, animation graphs and blueprints
• Implement, tweak and refine combat data such as damage types & volumes, impact and iframes, damage stats, animation timing, hit impact triggering etc.
• Create and maintain design documentation, including combat system, move sets, enemy behaviors, and more.
• Collaborate with engineering, art, and animation teams to ensure your designs are feasible and executed to the highest quality.
• Prototype new combat mechanics and features in-engine.
• Conduct playtests, gather feedback, and iterate on designs.
• Stay up to date with industry trends and new technologies to push the boundaries of combat design.
Qualifications
• 3+ years of professional experience in game design, with a significant focus on combat design.
• Shipped at least one title with the same or similar job title
• Deep understanding of gameplay mechanics, player feedback loops, and the principles of game feel.
• Demonstrable understanding of melee and projectile based combat
• Proficiency with Unreal Engine, specifically blueprints and prototyping.
• Excellent communication skills.
Blind Squirrel Entertainment, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Eligibility for benefits and perks may vary based on position, employment status, and location.
Notice to Job Applicants: As part of the application process, certain personal information is collected, and submission of your application is considered your acknowledgment that you have read and understand our policies applicable to such process and consent to the collection and processing of your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Policy. To review our policies, please visit our [website] and click ["Privacy"].
Our people are central to our success, and we foster a dynamic, curious, and collaborative environment where individuals are empowered to take initiative and make a meaningful impact.
With studios in Irvine, California; Austin, Texas; Auckland, New Zealand; and Manizales, Colombia, we bring together global talent to build premium, cutting-edge games. Guided by the Blind Squirrel Way, our teams operate with a strong sense of ownership, accountability, and collaboration to continually raise the bar.
This is a full-time position based in Austin, TX, with a fully onsite requirement at our studio campus.
As a Combat Designer, you will play a key role in shaping the game's combat experience. You'll collaborate closely with the Lead Combat Designer and cross-disciplinary leads to define and implement everything from enemy and weapon types down to attack collision volumes, impact frames, damage balancing and application etc. to make combat fun.
You will actively prototype, iterate, and refine core combat systems to meet BSG's exacting standards for quality and feel, embodying the principles of the Blind Squirrel Way throughout the process.
Responsibilities
• Design and implement character behaviors via scripting, behavior trees, animation graphs and blueprints
• Implement, tweak and refine combat data such as damage types & volumes, impact and iframes, damage stats, animation timing, hit impact triggering etc.
• Create and maintain design documentation, including combat system, move sets, enemy behaviors, and more.
• Collaborate with engineering, art, and animation teams to ensure your designs are feasible and executed to the highest quality.
• Prototype new combat mechanics and features in-engine.
• Conduct playtests, gather feedback, and iterate on designs.
• Stay up to date with industry trends and new technologies to push the boundaries of combat design.
Qualifications
• 3+ years of professional experience in game design, with a significant focus on combat design.
• Shipped at least one title with the same or similar job title
• Deep understanding of gameplay mechanics, player feedback loops, and the principles of game feel.
• Demonstrable understanding of melee and projectile based combat
• Proficiency with Unreal Engine, specifically blueprints and prototyping.
• Excellent communication skills.
Blind Squirrel Entertainment, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Eligibility for benefits and perks may vary based on position, employment status, and location.
Notice to Job Applicants: As part of the application process, certain personal information is collected, and submission of your application is considered your acknowledgment that you have read and understand our policies applicable to such process and consent to the collection and processing of your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Policy. To review our policies, please visit our [website] and click ["Privacy"].
About Blind Squirrel Games
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Pc games
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
Irvine, CA, US
Year founded
2010