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Trading Card Game Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fanatics Collectibles

Narrative Designer

Seattle, WA · On-site

About the Team Fanatics Collectibles is building the future of trading card games. The Fanatics TCG ... Partner with Game Design to ensure that mechanics and narrative reinforce each other

Fanatics

Rules Editor

Seattle, WA · On-site

... for trading card games, tabletop games, or systems-driven design. Preferred : • Experience with trading card games or tabletop rules systems. • Background in technical writing, editing, or ...

Pulsejobs

Designer - Entertainment

Carlsbad, CA

$26 - $29/hr

Additionally, design assignments are received requiring creative suggestions for brand enhancements ... Knowledge of sports and the sports and entertainment toy, trading card or trading card game ...

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Trading Card Game Design information

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$79.5K

$130.8K

$196K

How much do trading card game design jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for trading card game design in the United States is $130,762.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,000.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trading Card Game Designer, and why are they important?

A Trading Card Game Designer needs strong game design principles, mathematical and probability skills, and a creative understanding of gameplay balance, often supported by a background in game design or related fields. Familiarity with digital prototyping tools, playtesting platforms, and knowledge of industry-standard design software is highly beneficial. Excellent communication, collaboration, and iterative problem-solving abilities set top designers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for creating engaging, balanced, and commercially successful card games that appeal to diverse player communities.

What are some common challenges faced by trading card game designers during the playtesting phase?

Trading card game designers often encounter challenges in balancing the gameplay and ensuring that no single card or strategy dominates the game. Playtesting requires designers to collect and analyze feedback from a diverse group of players, which can reveal unforeseen interactions or exploits. Additionally, designers must iterate quickly and thoughtfully, adjusting card mechanics and rules while maintaining the overall vision of the game. Collaboration with artists, developers, and marketing teams is also crucial to align the game's mechanics with its thematic and commercial goals.

What is trading card game design?

Trading card game design is the process of creating the rules, mechanics, cards, and overall structure of a collectible or trading card game (TCG). Designers develop the gameplay experience, balancing strategy, randomness, and player interaction. They also work on themes, artwork, and expansions to keep the game engaging and fresh. Successful trading card game design requires creativity, playtesting, and a deep understanding of what makes games fun and replayable.

What is the difference between Trading Card Game Design vs Board Game Design?

AspectTrading Card Game DesignBoard Game Design
CredentialsDesign experience, knowledge of card mechanics, game theoryGame mechanics, prototyping, user experience
Work EnvironmentDigital and physical card development, collaboration with artists and publishersPhysical prototypes, playtesting, manufacturing coordination
Industry UsageCollectible card games, gaming publishers, hobby storesTabletop gaming, toy companies, hobby markets

Trading Card Game Design and Board Game Design share overlapping skills like game mechanics and prototyping, but differ mainly in their focus on card-based versus physical board experiences. While both roles involve creativity and playtesting, TCG designers often work more with digital assets and collectible elements, whereas board game designers focus on physical components and player interaction. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path within the gaming industry.

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What cities are hiring for Trading Card Game Design jobs? Cities with the most Trading Card Game Design job openings:
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Trading Card Game Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trading Card Game Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,762 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Pokemon TCG Instructor (Part Time, After School, In-Person)

Pokemon TCG Instructor (Part Time, After School, In-Person)

Concorde Education

Visalia, CA

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Schedule: Typically 1 hour per week for 10 weeks (after school); exact days/times vary by assignment
Location: On-site at a partner school; varies by assignment
Start Date: Rolling openings based on school schedules

Position Overview
Concorde Education is seeking an engaging, student-centered Pokémon Trading Card Game Instructor to facilitate a short-format after-school enrichment course for students. This course uses the Pokémon TCG as a structured, school-appropriate learning environment to build strategic thinking, reading comprehension, math fluency (counting, probability concepts, arithmetic), and positive social interaction through organized gameplay.

The instructor will establish clear norms for respectful play, safe handling of student materials, and inclusive participation. Instruction should emphasize sportsmanship, fairness, and responsible decision-making. The instructor will deliver instruction across a typical 10-week cycle, with pacing adapted to student needs and site logistics.

What You Will Teach
Students will learn how to play the Pokémon Trading Card Game, including rules, turn structure, card types, and basic deck strategy. Learners will practice interpreting card text, tracking game states, planning ahead, and making strategic choices. Instruction may also include deck-building fundamentals using approved formats appropriate for beginners and the school setting.

Major Topics Can Include

  • Club norms and sportsmanship (respectful language, fair play, turn-taking)
  • Card types and roles (Pokémon, Trainer cards, Energy)
  • Turn structure and key game actions (draw, attach energy, attack, retreat, abilities)
  • Reading and interpreting card text and symbols
  • Strategy fundamentals (resource management, tempo, planning for next turns)
  • Prize cards, win conditions, and game-state awareness
  • Weakness, resistance, and damage calculation (math practice)
  • Introductory deck-building (balance of Pokémon/Trainer/Energy; consistency concepts)
  • Probability and consistency basics (drawing, search effects—intro level)
  • Organized play formats for beginners (pre-constructed decks, limited card pools, rotation awareness as informational)
  • Conflict resolution and positive peer interaction during gameplay

Key Responsibilities

  • Deliver a 10-session enrichment course with structured instruction, guided practice, and organized gameplay
  • Teach rules clearly and scaffold instruction for beginners while extending advanced players appropriately
  • Facilitate safe, inclusive play spaces and maintain positive behavior expectations aligned with site policies
  • Manage materials responsibly (cards, sleeves, counters, playmats) and support respectful handling of student property
  • Run mini-tournaments or structured leagues (as appropriate) with emphasis on sportsmanship and learning
  • Communicate professionally with site staff and Concorde program contacts regarding attendance and session completion tracking
  • Adapt pacing and activities to student readiness while ensuring consistent participation

Qualifications (Required)

  • Minimum of 60 college credits (or Associate degree in progress/completed)
  • Demonstrated familiarity with the Pokémon Trading Card Game rules and gameplay
  • Experience working with school-age students in structured settings (school, camps, after-school, tutoring, youth programs)
  • Strong facilitation skills and comfort managing small groups during games
  • Reliable, punctual, and professional; able to follow school policies and program boundaries
  • Ability to maintain a positive, inclusive environment emphasizing fairness, respect, and community-building