They are seeking a Combat Designer (Associate, Mid-Level, Senior, or Principal) to focus on creature design for upcoming titles, involving conceptualizing and implementing compelling creature ...
They are seeking a Combat Designer (Associate, Mid-Level, Senior, or Principal) to focus on creature design for upcoming titles, involving conceptualizing and implementing compelling creature ...
Deep understanding of creature design, combat mechanics, and player experience * Advanced experience with Unreal Engine systems, including optimization and technical constraints * Ability to lead ...
Quick apply
Deep understanding of creature design, combat mechanics, and player experience * Advanced experience with Unreal Engine systems, including optimization and technical constraints * Ability to lead ...
Technical Gameplay Designer (Creatures)
Los Angeles, CA · Remote
$172K - $206K/yr
Collaborate with cross-disciplinary partners to align creature design with art, narrative, 3C's gameplay, and technical requirements. * Balance and tune difficulty and behavior to create engaging ...
Quick apply
Technical Gameplay Designer (Creatures)
Los Angeles, CA · Remote
$172K - $206K/yr
Collaborate with cross-disciplinary partners to align creature design with art, narrative, 3C's gameplay, and technical requirements. * Balance and tune difficulty and behavior to create engaging ...
Electrical Superintendent
Birmingham, AL · On-site
Electrical Superintendent Creature Birmingham, AL Full-Time Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the ...
Electrical Superintendent
Birmingham, AL · On-site
Electrical Superintendent Creature Birmingham, AL Full-Time Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the ...
Build Something Better with Creature Creature is a vertically integrated design-build firm transforming how healthcare and complex facilities are delivered. Through our Design-Manufacture-Construct ...
Build Something Better with Creature Creature is a vertically integrated design-build firm transforming how healthcare and complex facilities are delivered. Through our Design-Manufacture-Construct ...
Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to architecture and ...
Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to architecture and ...
Electrical Superintendent
Birmingham, AL · On-site
Electrical Superintendent Creature • Birmingham, AL • Full-Time • Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to ...
Electrical Superintendent
Birmingham, AL · On-site
Electrical Superintendent Creature • Birmingham, AL • Full-Time • Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to ...
Competitive salary + performance-based bonus + benefits About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of ...
Competitive salary + performance-based bonus + benefits About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of ...
Salary: Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to ...
Quick apply
Salary: Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to ...
Competitive salary + performance-based bonus + benefits About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of ...
Competitive salary + performance-based bonus + benefits About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of ...
Build Something Better with Creature Creature is a vertically integrated design-build firm transforming how healthcare and complex facilities are delivered. Through our Design-Manufacture-Construct ...
Quick apply
Build Something Better with Creature Creature is a vertically integrated design-build firm transforming how healthcare and complex facilities are delivered. Through our Design-Manufacture-Construct ...
Construction Admin Assistant
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$17.75 - $22.75/hr
Competitive salary + benefits About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the friction, waste, and handoffs of traditional ...
Quick apply
Construction Admin Assistant
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$17.75 - $22.75/hr
Competitive salary + benefits About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the friction, waste, and handoffs of traditional ...
Electrical Superintendent Creature • Birmingham, AL • Full-Time • Travel Required Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the ...
Electrical Superintendent Creature • Birmingham, AL • Full-Time • Travel Required Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the ...
Journeyman Electrician
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$26 - $35.50/hr
Journeyman Electrician Creature • Birmingham, AL • Full-Time • Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate ...
Journeyman Electrician
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$26 - $35.50/hr
Journeyman Electrician Creature • Birmingham, AL • Full-Time • Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate ...
Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to architecture and ...
Quick apply
Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to architecture and ...
Birmingham, AL * Full-Time * Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of traditional ...
Quick apply
Birmingham, AL * Full-Time * Travel Required About Creature Creature is a vertically integrated Design-Manufacture-Construct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of traditional ...
Construction Admin Assistant
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$17.75 - $22.75/hr
We operate as one enterprisealigning design, construction, self-perform trades, and finance around disciplined execution. At Creature, administrative excellence is not overhead; it is a force ...
Quick apply
Construction Admin Assistant
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$17.75 - $22.75/hr
We operate as one enterprisealigning design, construction, self-perform trades, and finance around disciplined execution. At Creature, administrative excellence is not overhead; it is a force ...
Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to architecture and ...
Quick apply
Creature is a fully integrated design, manufacture, construct firm based in Birmingham, AL. Formed out of a burden to be more efficient and effective than the traditional approach to architecture and ...
Mechanical Project Manager
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$84K - $114K/yr
Mechanical Project Manager Creature is a vertically integrated design-build firm based in Birmingham, AL. Our focus is on developing a differentiated delivery platform that improves the lives of our ...
Quick apply
Mechanical Project Manager
Birmingham, AL · On-site
$84K - $114K/yr
Mechanical Project Manager Creature is a vertically integrated design-build firm based in Birmingham, AL. Our focus is on developing a differentiated delivery platform that improves the lives of our ...
... Creature Creature is a vertically integrated DesignManufactureConstruct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of traditional construction. We design, manufacture, and build as one ...
Quick apply
... Creature Creature is a vertically integrated DesignManufactureConstruct (DMC) company built to eliminate the inefficiencies of traditional construction. We design, manufacture, and build as one ...
Creature Design information
See salary details
$80.5K - $89.8K
0% of jobs
$89.8K - $99K
0% of jobs
$99K - $108.3K
1% of jobs
$108.3K - $117.6K
0% of jobs
$117.6K - $126.9K
0% of jobs
$130.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$126.9K - $136.1K
57% of jobs
$140.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$136.1K - $145.4K
38% of jobs
$145.4K - $154.7K
0% of jobs
$154.7K - $164K
1% of jobs
$164K - $173.2K
1% of jobs
$173.2K - $182.5K
1% of jobs
$80.5K
$139.4K
$182.5K
How much do creature design jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for creature design in the United States is $139,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,000.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in creature design, and why are they important?
Succeeding in Creature Design requires strong drawing and sculpting abilities, a solid understanding of anatomy across species, and a portfolio showcasing imaginative yet believable creature concepts. Familiarity with digital art tools such as Adobe Photoshop, ZBrush, or Blender—along with experience in 2D/3D concept rendering—is often necessary. Creative problem-solving, strong communication skills, and the ability to incorporate feedback help designers excel in collaborative environments. These competencies ensure designs meet both artistic and production needs while pushing creative boundaries in entertainment or scientific visualization.
How much do creature designers get paid?
Creature designers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals working in film, video games, or animation can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by strong portfolios and proficiency in tools like ZBrush or Maya.
What does a typical project workflow look like for a creature designer?
A typical workflow for a Creature Designer starts with researching references and brainstorming initial ideas, followed by rough sketching and concept iterations. The designer collaborates closely with art directors, writers, and 3D modelers to refine concepts based on feedback and project requirements. Once a design is approved, they may create detailed turnarounds, color studies, or 3D models to guide the production team. This collaborative and iterative process ensures the final creature designs align with the project's vision and technical requirements while allowing the designer to showcase their creativity and adaptability.
What is a creature design?
A Creature Design job involves designing and developing original creatures for films, video games, animation, and other media. Creature designers blend anatomy, biology, and imagination to create believable and visually compelling beings that fit within a story's world. They often work closely with concept artists, animators, and directors to refine their designs. The role requires strong artistic skills, knowledge of real-world animals, and an understanding of character functionality.
More about Creature Design jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Creature Design jobs? The most popular types of Creature Design jobs are:
What states have the most Creature Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Creature Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Creature Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Creature Design jobs are:
Full-time
Re-posted 18 days ago
Job description
Job Summary:
Gunfire Games is a company passionate about creating unforgettable worlds and experiences, known for titles like Darksiders 3 and The Remnant Series. They are seeking a Combat Designer (Associate, Mid-Level, Senior, or Principal) to focus on creature design for upcoming titles, involving conceptualizing and implementing compelling creature mechanics using Unreal Engine 5.
Responsibilities:
• Conceptualize and implement compelling creature mechanics using Unreal Engine 5, helping bring dynamic and memorable encounters to life.
• Work in-engine, using tools such as state machines and Blueprints to implement and iterate on creature behaviors.
• Demonstrates potential through portfolio work, with a focus on implementation.
• Ability to own features from concept through iteration and polish.
• Mentor other designers and drive quality across systems.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 0–2+ years of experience (professional, internship, or equivalent personal/indie work)
• Foundational understanding of combat design, AI behaviors, or gameplay systems
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine (UE4/UE5) and Blueprint scripting
• Demonstrates potential through portfolio work, with a focus on implementation
• Eagerness to learn, take feedback, and grow within a collaborative team
• 2–5+ years of experience in combat or gameplay design
• Portfolio demonstrating implemented creature behaviors and combat encounters
• Strong working knowledge of Unreal Engine (UE4/UE5), including animation systems and state machines
• Proficiency with Blueprint scripting to implement gameplay systems
• Ability to own features from concept through iteration and polish
• Solid understanding of combat feel, AI behaviors, and animation fundamentals
• 5+ years of professional experience in combat or systems design
• Shipped at least one title with meaningful contribution to combat or AI systems
• Deep understanding of creature design, combat mechanics, and player experience
• Advanced experience with Unreal Engine systems, including optimization and technical constraints
• Ability to lead features, mentor other designers, and drive quality across systems
• Strong cross-disciplinary collaboration and problem-solving skills
• 8+ years of experience with a focus on combat systems or AI-driven gameplay
• Multiple shipped titles with significant ownership of combat or creature systems
• Proven ability to define and drive combat design vision at a system or project level
• Establishes best practices, pipelines, and long-term direction for combat design
• Mentors across the discipline and influences both creative and technical decision-making
• Balances high-level vision with hands-on execution when needed
• Strong technical understanding of Unreal Engine (UE4/UE5), especially animation systems and state machines
• Experience working with 3D game engines and understanding of game development pipelines
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across disciplines
• Ability to iterate quickly without compromising quality
• Strong problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, evolving development environment
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently
• Must be based in the U.S. and legally authorized to work without sponsorship
Preferred:
• Animation experience, especially related to creature behaviors
• Shipped a AA/AAA title (For Mid, Senior, Principal Levels)
• Experience iterating on work based on playtests and player feedback
Company:
This is generally the blurb where we try to sell ourselves, and convince everyone why we are so awesome. It is a sub-organization of THQ Nordic. Founded in 2014, the company is headquartered in Austin, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.
Gunfire Games is a company passionate about creating unforgettable worlds and experiences, known for titles like Darksiders 3 and The Remnant Series. They are seeking a Combat Designer (Associate, Mid-Level, Senior, or Principal) to focus on creature design for upcoming titles, involving conceptualizing and implementing compelling creature mechanics using Unreal Engine 5.
Responsibilities:
• Conceptualize and implement compelling creature mechanics using Unreal Engine 5, helping bring dynamic and memorable encounters to life.
• Work in-engine, using tools such as state machines and Blueprints to implement and iterate on creature behaviors.
• Demonstrates potential through portfolio work, with a focus on implementation.
• Ability to own features from concept through iteration and polish.
• Mentor other designers and drive quality across systems.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 0–2+ years of experience (professional, internship, or equivalent personal/indie work)
• Foundational understanding of combat design, AI behaviors, or gameplay systems
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine (UE4/UE5) and Blueprint scripting
• Demonstrates potential through portfolio work, with a focus on implementation
• Eagerness to learn, take feedback, and grow within a collaborative team
• 2–5+ years of experience in combat or gameplay design
• Portfolio demonstrating implemented creature behaviors and combat encounters
• Strong working knowledge of Unreal Engine (UE4/UE5), including animation systems and state machines
• Proficiency with Blueprint scripting to implement gameplay systems
• Ability to own features from concept through iteration and polish
• Solid understanding of combat feel, AI behaviors, and animation fundamentals
• 5+ years of professional experience in combat or systems design
• Shipped at least one title with meaningful contribution to combat or AI systems
• Deep understanding of creature design, combat mechanics, and player experience
• Advanced experience with Unreal Engine systems, including optimization and technical constraints
• Ability to lead features, mentor other designers, and drive quality across systems
• Strong cross-disciplinary collaboration and problem-solving skills
• 8+ years of experience with a focus on combat systems or AI-driven gameplay
• Multiple shipped titles with significant ownership of combat or creature systems
• Proven ability to define and drive combat design vision at a system or project level
• Establishes best practices, pipelines, and long-term direction for combat design
• Mentors across the discipline and influences both creative and technical decision-making
• Balances high-level vision with hands-on execution when needed
• Strong technical understanding of Unreal Engine (UE4/UE5), especially animation systems and state machines
• Experience working with 3D game engines and understanding of game development pipelines
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across disciplines
• Ability to iterate quickly without compromising quality
• Strong problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, evolving development environment
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently
• Must be based in the U.S. and legally authorized to work without sponsorship
Preferred:
• Animation experience, especially related to creature behaviors
• Shipped a AA/AAA title (For Mid, Senior, Principal Levels)
• Experience iterating on work based on playtests and player feedback
Company:
This is generally the blurb where we try to sell ourselves, and convince everyone why we are so awesome. It is a sub-organization of THQ Nordic. Founded in 2014, the company is headquartered in Austin, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.
About Gunfire Games
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Pc games
Company size
11 - 50 Employees
Headquarters location
Austin, TX, US
Year founded
2014