Game Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Game Design Consultant Company: Unity Technologies Location: San Francisco, CA, USA Job Type: Full-time Category: Game Design Consulting / Revenue Operations Date Posted: 2026-01-08 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing expert game design consultation to clients, leveraging data analytics to enhance Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and player engagement.
• You will act as a bridge between Unity's advanced analytics capabilities and client game development teams, translating complex data into actionable design recommendations.
• The position requires a deep understanding of game design principles, market trends, and various revenue models to drive strategic improvements for client games.
• This role is crucial for Unity's Professional Services team, directly impacting client success and the adoption of Unity's platform for optimized game performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Game Design Consultant," the description strongly emphasizes data-driven insights, KPI optimization, and revenue models, aligning it closely with Revenue Operations and GTM (Go-to-Market) strategies within the gaming industry. The role requires translating technical data into business and design outcomes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with game development clients to provide data-informed, tailored advice for improving game design, player experience, and monetization strategies.
• Partner with Unity's internal analytics teams to interpret game data, identify trends, and formulate strategic recommendations for client games.
• Conduct thorough game teardowns, including playtesting, to identify areas for improvement in gameplay, user flow, and monetization effectiveness.
• Develop and present comprehensive reports and presentations detailing findings, insights, and actionable strategies to clients.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of global gaming market trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscapes to inform client consultations.
• Contribute to Unity's thought leadership by occasionally authoring blog posts, articles, or case studies related to game design, analytics, and monetization best practices.
• Advise clients on optimizing various revenue models, including premium pricing, ad monetization, and in-app purchases (micro-transactions).
• Provide guidance on UI/UX design, accessibility best practices, and live-operations management to enhance player retention and satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on data analysis, client advisory, and strategic implementation, which are core to operations roles. The emphasis on KPIs and revenue models positions this as a strategic, business-impact-oriented role within the professional services arm of a technology company.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, Digital Media, Business, or a related field is often beneficial for understanding the technical and strategic aspects of the role.

Experience: 5-10 years of progressive experience in game design, with a significant portion focused on data-driven decision-making and performance optimization.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in game design principles and execution across 2D and 3D game development.
• Strong understanding and practical application of data-driven design methodologies and A/B testing.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client-facing skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• In-depth knowledge of various gaming revenue models, including premium, ad monetization, and micro-transactions.
• Familiarity with key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to game success, such as player retention, engagement, and monetization metrics.
• Ability to analyze and interpret game data to identify actionable insights and strategic opportunities.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in game economy design, balancing virtual economies for long-term player engagement and monetization.
• Knowledge of UI/UX best practices and accessibility standards to ensure inclusive game design.
• Experience with live-ops management and strategies for maintaining player engagement post-launch.
• Proficiency with SQL for data querying and analysis, enabling direct data exploration.
• Familiarity with Unity's engine and development pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications blend creative game design expertise with analytical and business acumen, a hallmark of successful operations professionals in specialized industries like gaming. The preference for SQL indicates a hands-on approach to data analysis, common in operations roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful game design projects, with a clear emphasis on how data was used to drive design decisions and improve KPIs.
• Include case studies that highlight your involvement in optimizing revenue models, player engagement, or retention strategies through design interventions.
• Provide examples of detailed reports or presentations delivered to stakeholders, illustrating your ability to communicate findings and strategic recommendations effectively.
• Showcase projects where you've analyzed performance data to iterate on game mechanics, UI/UX, or monetization features.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how you have documented design processes, including iteration cycles, A/B testing methodologies, and data analysis workflows.
• Evidence of creating structured plans for game feature implementation or optimization based on analytical insights.
• Documentation illustrating the measurement and analysis of game performance post-implementation of design changes.

📝 Enhancement Note: In operations roles, a portfolio is critical for demonstrating tangible impact. For this role, the emphasis should be on data-driven decision-making, process optimization for game performance, and clear communication of results – akin to a GTM or RevOps portfolio.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $88,000 - $105,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance plans.
• Emphasis on work-life balance, supported by company culture and policies.
• Access to Unity's professional development resources and training programs.
• Opportunities for networking and collaboration within the global gaming industry.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for occasional overtime during critical project phases or client deadlines. Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team agreements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to San Francisco, CA. For operations roles, particularly in tech hubs like SF, this range is competitive for a mid-senior level consultant with specialized industry knowledge. Benefits like health insurance and work-life balance are standard, but the emphasis on professional development is key for growth-oriented operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, Software, Game Development Tools, Interactive Media. Unity Technologies is a leader in real-time 3D development platforms, empowering creators across gaming, film, automotive, architecture, and more.

Company Size: Large enterprise (over 1,000 employees). This size indicates a structured environment with established processes, dedicated departments (like Professional Services and Analytics), and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: 2004. With nearly two decades of history, Unity has a mature culture, a strong market presence, and a deep understanding of the creative technology landscape.

Team Structure:

• You will be part of the Unity Professional Services team, a specialized group focused on client success and platform adoption.
• This team likely collaborates closely with Unity's product, engineering, sales, and analytics departments.
• Reporting structure will likely involve a Team Lead or Manager within Professional Services.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working with Unity analysts, account managers, and client development teams.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is a core methodology, utilizing player data and market insights to guide client strategies.
• Emphasis on iterative design processes, informed by analytics and client feedback.
• Focus on delivering value and measurable results (KPI improvement) for clients through consulting engagements.
• Agile methodologies may be employed for project management and client service delivery.

Company Website: https://www.unity.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Unity's culture is geared towards empowering creators. For an operations-focused consultant, this translates to a role where you are enabling client success through data and strategic guidance, fitting within a structured professional services framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Senior Consultant. This level implies a need for independent work, client management, and the ability to mentor or guide more junior team members or client staff. You are expected to be a subject matter expert in game design and data-driven strategy.

Reporting Structure: You will report to a manager within Unity's Professional Services division. This structure provides guidance and oversight while allowing for autonomous client engagement. Collaboration will extend across various internal teams and external client stakeholders.

Operations Impact: Your work will directly influence the success of Unity's clients by optimizing their game performance, improving player engagement, and enhancing monetization strategies. This, in turn, strengthens Unity's platform value proposition and drives broader adoption of their technologies. Your insights contribute to the revenue generation of client companies and, indirectly, Unity's ecosystem.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific game genres, revenue models, or advanced analytics techniques.
• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Consultant, Lead Consultant, or Management role within Professional Services, taking on more complex projects and team leadership responsibilities.
• Skill Development: Access training on new Unity features, advanced analytics tools, and emerging industry trends. Opportunities to present at industry events.
• Cross-functional Moves: Potential to transition into Product Management, Developer Relations, or Sales Strategy roles within Unity, leveraging your deep understanding of client needs and market dynamics.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a specialized consulting function, emphasizing both technical depth and strategic business impact, which is highly valued in operations and GTM roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site in San Francisco, CA. This implies a traditional office setting designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): San Francisco, California, USA. This location offers access to a vibrant tech ecosystem, networking opportunities, and a collaborative professional environment.

Workspace Context:

• A dynamic office environment that fosters collaboration with fellow consultants, analysts, and other Unity professionals.
• Access to Unity's suite of tools, analytics platforms, and internal resources necessary for consultation and analysis.
• Opportunities for informal knowledge sharing and problem-solving with colleagues.
• A professional setting conducive to client meetings and presentations.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours (approximately 40 hours per week), with flexibility to accommodate client needs or project deadlines. The on-site nature requires adherence to a regular schedule, facilitating team synchronization and client availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a major tech hub like San Francisco suggests a collaborative and potentially fast-paced work environment, common for client-facing operations and consulting roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will review your application and resume, focusing on relevant game design experience, data analysis skills, and understanding of revenue models.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager to assess your experience, communication style, and fit for the consultant role. Expect questions about your approach to data-driven design and client management.
• Technical/Panel Interview: This stage will likely involve a deeper dive into your technical skills, including game design case studies, analysis of hypothetical game scenarios, and discussion of your portfolio. You may be asked to present a past project.
• Case Study/Presentation: You might be given a hypothetical game or a client scenario to analyze and present your recommended design improvements and monetization strategies, mirroring the core job responsibilities.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership or key stakeholders to ensure cultural fit and alignment with Unity's strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Data Impact: Clearly articulate how your design decisions, informed by data, led to measurable improvements in KPIs (e.g., increased retention, higher ARPDAU, improved conversion rates).
• Showcase Process: Detail your methodology for analyzing game data, conducting playtests, and developing reports. Explain your thought process for problem-solving.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Implemented a new tutorial flow that increased player retention by 15% in the first 24 hours."
• Tailor to Role: Emphasize your experience with various revenue models, UI/UX, and live-ops, as these are specifically mentioned in the job description.
• Presentation Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Be prepared to walk through specific projects confidently.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario Analysis: Practice analyzing hypothetical game designs or performance data to identify weaknesses and propose solutions.
• Revenue Model Strategy: Be ready to discuss the pros and cons of different monetization strategies for various game types.
• Communication Skills: Prepare to explain technical concepts clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a client with varying levels of technical understanding.
• Industry Trends: Stay current on the latest trends in mobile gaming, F2P mechanics, and emerging platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not just design skills but also analytical capabilities and client-facing effectiveness, reflecting the operations-centric nature of this consulting role. A strong portfolio is paramount for demonstrating practical, data-driven impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Unity Engine: Essential for understanding the development environment and client projects.
• Data Analysis & Visualization Tools: Proficiency with tools to analyze game telemetry data, identify patterns, and create insightful visualizations (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or custom internal tools).
• Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or Google Workspace for reporting, presentations, and documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Game Analytics Platforms: Familiarity with common game analytics SDKs and platforms (e.g., Unity Analytics, GameAnalytics, Firebase Analytics).
• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with BI tools for data aggregation, analysis, and dashboard creation.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not explicitly mentioned for this role, understanding how client data is managed in CRM systems (like Salesforce) can be beneficial for context.
• SQL: Experience with SQL is a preferred skill for direct data querying, allowing for more in-depth analysis and validation of data insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes data analysis and visualization tools, critical for operations roles. Proficiency in SQL is a strong indicator of a hands-on, data-centric approach expected in this position.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creator Empowerment: A core value at Unity, meaning enabling clients to succeed with their game development and business goals.
• Data-Driven Innovation: Utilizing data to inform decisions, drive improvements, and foster creative solutions.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams and external clients to achieve shared objectives.
• Excellence and Impact: Striving for high-quality results that have a tangible positive impact on client success and business outcomes.
• Continuous Learning: Staying abreast of industry changes, new technologies, and evolving player behaviors.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, working closely with client development teams, product managers, and Unity's analytics and account management teams.
• Open communication and feedback loops are encouraged to ensure alignment and continuous improvement.
• Emphasis on building strong client relationships based on trust, expertise, and delivery of value.
• Cross-functional teamwork is key to integrating design recommendations with technical feasibility and business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a results-oriented, data-informed, and collaborative approach, aligning well with the ethos of successful operations teams that drive business growth through strategic execution and partnership.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Data to Design: Effectively bridging the gap between raw player data and actionable, creative game design recommendations can be challenging.
• Client Management: Managing diverse client expectations, technical capabilities, and varying levels of data literacy requires strong interpersonal and consulting skills.
• Market Volatility: The gaming industry is dynamic; staying ahead of trends and adapting recommendations to rapidly changing market conditions is a constant challenge.
• Balancing Design vs. Monetization: Finding the optimal balance between engaging gameplay and effective monetization strategies that satisfy both players and business goals.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Unity Technologies: Gain extensive knowledge of Unity's platform, tools, and services, enhancing your value proposition.
• Advanced Analytics & BI Training: Opportunities to hone skills in data analysis, visualization, and business intelligence specific to the gaming industry.
• Industry Conferences & Events: Potential to attend and present at leading game development and analytics conferences, building your professional network and industry profile.
• Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced consultants and leaders within Unity for career guidance and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: These challenges are common in operations roles that require strategic thinking, problem-solving, and continuous adaptation to market dynamics. The growth opportunities are focused on deepening expertise and expanding influence within the gaming tech sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used data to significantly improve a game's KPI. What was the KPI, what data did you analyze, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on a clear STAR method response with quantifiable results.)
• "How would you approach advising a client whose game has high engagement but low monetization? What data would you look for, and what design changes might you suggest?" (Demonstrate your understanding of revenue models and data-driven design.)
• "Imagine a client presents you with a game that is underperforming in player retention. Walk me through your process for diagnosing the issue and recommending solutions." (Showcase your analytical process, from data gathering to strategy formulation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Unity Technologies and this specific Game Design Consultant role?" (Research Unity's mission, products, and recent news. Connect your passion for gaming and data to their goals.)
• "How do you approach building rapport and trust with clients, especially when delivering difficult feedback or recommendations?" (Highlight your communication skills and client-centric approach.)
• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends in the gaming industry and game design?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, the data/analysis performed, the solution/recommendations, and the quantifiable results.
• Focus on Impact: Emphasize the business outcomes and how your work directly contributed to improving KPIs or revenue.
• Be Data-Centric: Clearly articulate the role of data in your decision-making process.
• Tell a Story: Engage your interviewers by presenting your work as a narrative, highlighting challenges overcome and successes achieved.
• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your methodologies, the limitations of your data, and alternative solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily lean into demonstrating analytical rigor, strategic thinking, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable business insights, which are core competencies for operations professionals.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Unity Technologies careers portal.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience with game design, data analysis, KPI optimization, and revenue models. Quantify your achievements with numbers and metrics wherever possible.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best showcase your data-driven design approach, client consulting experience, and impact on game performance or revenue. Ensure clear documentation of problems, solutions, and results.
• Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your experience and approach to game design, data analysis, and client consultation using the STAR method. Practice presenting your portfolio projects concisely and impactfully.
• Research Unity: Understand Unity's platform, its market position, and its commitment to empowering creators. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and Unity's strategic initiatives in professional services.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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