Associate Game Developer
SUMMARY Overview of the position
The Associate Game Developer (AGD) helps in the creation of unique and innovative Trading Card Game (TCG) and Collectable Card Game (CCG) products. With overall direction from the Sr Director of Game Development, the AGD assists in the conceptualization, development, and maintenance of product portfolios for TCG focused brands. The AGD may be asked to prepare and present product strategies and financial costing reports. The AGD also works alongside Brand and Project Managers in developing external licensing and business relationships.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an individual assigned to this job. Other duties may be assigned.
- Product Development:
- Portfolio Management – Works with the team to conceptualizes and manages the development of current and future TCG/CCG products meeting Upper Deck defined requirements.
- Consumer Experience – Able to identify the collectable and non-collectable drivers of a TCG including the pack opening experience, rarity structures, card technologies, and just overall vibes of opening a fun pack of cards.
- Financial Responsibilities – Develops product P&L documentation to ensure that a product stays within budget and is profitable at launch.
- Intellectual Property Knowledge - Must be able to determine and report on the driving factors for any IP they oversee.
- Leadership – May be asked to take a leading role in all aspects of development for a particular product line.
- Product Determination and Selection:
- Industry Trends – Expected to research, anticipate, identify, and capitalize on TCG/CCG industry trends and value drivers.
- Line Plans - Works with the respective Sales and Brand teams to design a wide range of products for large and small distribution channels including private label programs, premiums and promotional items, direct marketing campaigns, mass market and limited-edition programs.
- New Opportunities – Suggests new categories and products for TCG/CCG lines to maximize consumer demand.
- Quality Control/Ethics:
- Compliance – Ensures that a product is built considering quality and compliance standards.
- Quality Assurance – Must works closely with the Operation and Production teams to minimize manufacturing errors and delivery slippage.
- Marketing, Advertising, Promotion, and Solicitation Activity:
- Marketing Feedback - Provide input into Marketing/Advertising/PR campaigns as requested.
- Systems and Administration:
- Product Documentation – Helps manage and maintain the accuracy of product documentation and communicates and changes throughout the organization.
- Communication:
- Cross Departmental Interaction - Responsible for keeping team members up to date with ranging developments for TCG/CCG initiatives acting as a liaison with other departments. Must provide initial directions on component layout and art design.
- External Party Collaboration – Must be able to be collaborative with outside parties by understanding all aspects of the design and production process.
INTERACTION
The Associate Game Developer will interact with numerous departments within the company as well as external parties. The core team will consist of the TCG Game Development Coordinator, Game Designer, Game Developer, and Brand Managers. Graphic Design, Photo, Art, and Editorial departments will be consulted heavily to ensure that content is conveyed properly. Project Managers will be constantly consulted to keep tasks on schedule and to meet licensor requirements when applicable. Financial and Legal requirements will also need to be considered, and those departments will be consulted when necessary. The Associate Game Developer will collaborate with Customer Service as needed to help with customer issues. Lastly, may be asked to participate in live streams for various Upper Deck social media outlets to interact with collectors and the community.
EDUCATION/YEARS EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s Degree with an emphasis in Game Development and/or Design or a closely related field or equivalent experience.
- Mathematics experience is also a plus.
- 5+ years of experience with TCG/CCG style games.
- 5+ years of experience with tabletop gaming.
- Professional experience in the tabletop gaming industry is a plus
REQUIREMENTS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Passion for tabletop gaming with an extensive TCG background.
- Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple, high priority projects with keen attention to detail.
- Team Collaboration skills to be able to work in a professional, team-based environment.
- Superior interpersonal, leadership, negotiating, consulting, presentation, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Proficient in the Microsoft 365 suite (advanced expertise with Excel)
- The ability to create and maintain complex Microsoft Excel spreadsheets is a plus.
- General Pop Culture knowledge and interest is preferred.
- Ability to perform duties under minimal supervision while exercising discretion and independent judgment when needed.
- Hands on, energetic and motivated self-starter.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally on behalf of Upper Deck
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