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 Support Date Posted: December 5, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in leveraging data analytics and game design expertise to enhance client Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) within the gaming industry.
• The Game Design Consultant will act as a subject matter expert, providing strategic guidance on game mechanics, monetization strategies, and player engagement.
• This position demands a strong blend of creative game design acumen and analytical rigor to translate complex data into actionable recommendations for game improvement.
• The role involves deep collaboration with internal Unity analysts and external clients to drive successful game design outcomes and optimize revenue streams.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Game Design Consultant," the responsibilities and emphasis on KPIs, revenue models, and data-driven design strongly align with a specialized Revenue Operations or GTM (Go-To-Market) support function within the gaming technology sector. The focus on optimizing client games for better performance and revenue positions this role as a strategic partner in client success, mirroring the objectives of operations roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive game teardowns and analysis to identify areas for improvement in design, monetization, and player retention, directly impacting client game KPIs.
• Collaborate closely with Unity's data analysts to interpret player behavior data, game telemetry, and market trends, translating these insights into strategic game design recommendations.
• Develop and present detailed reports and compelling presentations to clients, outlining findings, proposed design changes, and projected impacts on key metrics such as player engagement, retention, and revenue.
• Provide expert, tailored advice to game development clients on optimizing their games using best practices in game design, including monetization strategies (premium, ad monetization, micro-transactions), game economy design, and live-ops management.
• Stay abreast of the latest gaming market trends, emerging technologies (AR/VR, simulations), and competitive landscapes to ensure recommendations are cutting-edge and relevant.
• Occasionally contribute thought leadership content, such as blog posts and articles, to showcase Unity's expertise in game design and data-driven optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities heavily emphasize data analysis, strategic recommendations for business outcomes (KPIs, revenue), and client advisory, which are core tenets of Revenue Operations and Sales Operations roles focused on client success and growth. The "game teardown service" implies a structured analytical process for evaluating product performance against business objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, Digital Media, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

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

Required Skills:

• Game Design Expertise: Proven track record in designing engaging and successful 2D and 3D games across various platforms.
• Data-Driven Design Methodologies: Strong understanding and practical application of using player data, analytics, and KPIs to inform and iterate on game design decisions.
• Communication & Presentation Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, with a demonstrated capacity to articulate complex ideas, findings, and recommendations clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including executive stakeholders.
• Revenue Model Knowledge: In-depth understanding of various gaming industry revenue models, including premium pricing, in-app purchases (micro-transactions), and ad monetization strategies, with the ability to advise on their effective implementation.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to dissect complex problems, analyze data, and develop logical, actionable solutions that drive measurable business outcomes.

Preferred Skills:

• Game Economy Design: Experience in designing and balancing in-game economies, virtual currencies, and reward systems to ensure long-term player engagement and monetization.
• UI/UX Design Principles: Familiarity with user interface and user experience best practices to enhance player satisfaction and ease of interaction.
• Accessibility Best Practices: Knowledge of designing games that are inclusive and accessible to players with diverse needs.
• Live-Ops Management: Experience with managing live games, including content updates, events, and community engagement strategies to maintain player retention.
• SQL Proficiency: Experience in querying databases using SQL for data extraction and analysis, particularly as it relates to player behavior and game performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required and preferred skills highlight a blend of creative and analytical capabilities. For operations professionals, transferable skills include data analysis, strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and understanding business metrics (KPIs, revenue). SQL proficiency is a common technical requirement in many operations roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies in Game Improvement: Demonstrable examples of projects where you have analyzed game performance data and implemented design changes that led to measurable improvements in KPIs (e.g., retention, engagement, monetization).
• Data-Driven Design Examples: Portfolio pieces showcasing how data was integrated into the design process, including mockups, design documents, or post-launch analysis.
• Report and Presentation Samples: Examples of client-facing reports and presentations that effectively communicate findings, analysis, and strategic recommendations.
• Monetization Strategy Design: Documentation or examples of implemented monetization strategies and their performance metrics.

Process Documentation:

• Game Analysis Framework: Ability to articulate a structured process for analyzing games, identifying performance bottlenecks, and recommending solutions.
• Data Interpretation Workflow: A clear methodology for transforming raw player data into actionable insights and design recommendations.
• Client Engagement & Reporting Process: A documented approach for client interaction, feedback incorporation, and final deliverable creation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations professionals often need to demonstrate their ability to document and optimize processes. The requirement for a "Game Analysis Framework" and "Data Interpretation Workflow" directly aligns with the need for process definition and improvement in operations roles. A portfolio showcasing data-driven improvements is crucial for demonstrating impact.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

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

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401k).
• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including access to training, conferences, and Unity's internal learning resources.
• Wellness programs and resources designed to support employee well-being.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, with potential for occasional overtime depending on project deadlines and client needs. Flexibility in daily scheduling may be available, subject to team and client requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided. For operations roles, benefits are crucial. The mention of professional development and access to learning resources is particularly relevant for candidates looking to advance their careers in the operations field.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, specifically focused on real-time interactive 3D development platforms and services for game creation, AR/VR, and simulations. Company Size: Unity Technologies is a large, publicly traded company with global operations. Founded: Unity Technologies was founded in 2004, with a history of significant growth and innovation in the game development engine space.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Unity Professional Services team, which works directly with clients to implement and optimize their use of Unity products.
• This team likely comprises data analysts, technical consultants, and subject matter experts in various domains of game development and operations.
• Reporting structure is likely to a Manager or Director within Professional Services, with significant collaboration across different departments, including analytics, engineering, and sales.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A core philosophy at Unity, emphasizing the use of data to inform product development, client solutions, and business strategy.
• Client-Centric Approach: A strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs, providing value through expertise and tailored solutions.
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging exploration of new technologies, methodologies, and best practices to stay at the forefront of the industry.

Company Website: https://unity.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: While the company is a technology provider, its Professional Services arm operates much like a high-end consulting firm. For operations professionals, understanding the client-centric and data-driven nature of Unity's services is key to aligning their own operational strategies with business goals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level to senior specialist position within a consulting or professional services framework. It requires a solid foundation of experience and the ability to operate with a degree of autonomy, offering strategic guidance.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into a management layer within Unity Professional Services, likely a Director or Senior Manager. Collaboration will be extensive with internal Unity Analysts and client-side development/management teams.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant, directly influencing client success by optimizing their games for better player engagement, retention, and revenue. This translates to increased client satisfaction, stronger client relationships for Unity, and ultimately, greater adoption and revenue for Unity's platform and services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as game economy design, live-ops, or advanced monetization strategies, potentially leading to Principal Consultant or Lead Specialist roles.
• Leadership: Transition into management roles within Professional Services, leading teams of consultants and analysts, or managing client accounts.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Opportunities to move into product management, strategy, or GTM roles within Unity, leveraging deep client and market insights.
• Industry Recognition: Contribute to industry publications and events, building personal brand and recognition within the gaming sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role offers a clear path for growth into specialized consulting, leadership, or strategic GTM roles. The emphasis on client success and revenue optimization aligns well with career progression in operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a structured office environment within Unity's San Francisco location. Office Location(s): San Francisco, CA, USA.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities to interact with fellow consultants, data analysts, and other Unity professionals.
• Access to Unity's industry-leading development tools and analytical platforms will be standard.
• The environment likely fosters a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning, common in tech and consulting firms.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the possibility of flexibility. However, the consulting nature of the role may require adaptability to client schedules and project demands, potentially involving occasional work outside standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in San Francisco suggests a dynamic, potentially fast-paced office environment typical of major tech hubs. For operations roles, understanding the physical workspace can provide clues about team collaboration and access to resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role.
• Technical/Behavioral Interviews: Expect interviews focusing on game design principles, data analysis, client management scenarios, and behavioral questions to assess problem-solving and communication skills.
• Portfolio Presentation: A critical stage where candidates will likely present case studies from their portfolio, demonstrating their ability to analyze games, implement data-driven strategies, and achieve measurable results. This is where your operations process thinking will be evaluated.
• Case Study/Challenge: A practical exercise, possibly involving analyzing a game sample or developing a strategy for a hypothetical client scenario.
• Final Round: Interviews with senior leadership to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., "Increased player retention by 15%," "Optimized monetization strategy leading to a 10% uplift in ARPU").
• Showcase Process: Detail your methodology for analysis, data interpretation, strategy development, and client communication. Highlight how you approach process optimization.
• Tailor to Operations: Frame your experience in terms of driving business objectives, optimizing workflows, and delivering measurable value, aligning with operations principles.
• Clarity and Conciseness: Ensure your presentations are well-structured, easy to understand, and directly address the requirements of the role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize Yourself: Review Unity's products and recent industry trends. Understand common challenges in game design and monetization.
• Practice Data Analysis: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach analyzing game data (e.g., player progression, purchase history, engagement metrics).
• Develop Strategic Frameworks: Think about how you would structure advice for a client facing common issues like low retention or ineffective monetization.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio showcasing measurable impact and well-defined processes is paramount. Operations candidates should emphasize their analytical frameworks, process improvement methodologies, and data-driven decision-making skills when preparing their portfolio and case studies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Unity Engine: Deep familiarity with Unity's capabilities for game development.
• Data Analysis Software: Proficiency with tools for data interpretation and visualization (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Looker, or internal Unity analytics platforms).
• Productivity Suites: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) for reporting and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• SQL Databases: Experience querying databases is a strong plus for direct data exploration.
• Analytics Platforms: Familiarity with various game analytics platforms and their metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary focus, an understanding of CRM principles and how client data is managed can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, highlighting proficiency in data analysis tools, reporting software, and potentially SQL is crucial. Emphasize how these tools facilitate data-driven decision-making and process optimization.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Data-Driven: Commitment to using data as the foundation for all strategic decisions and recommendations.
• Client Success: A strong focus on partnering with clients to achieve their business objectives and maximize their success on the Unity platform.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the exploration of new ideas to push the boundaries of game design and player experience.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where knowledge is shared, and collective expertise is leveraged to solve complex challenges.
• Excellence: Striving for high-quality deliverables and continuous improvement in both individual performance and team processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with Unity's analytics, product, and sales teams to ensure comprehensive client solutions.
• Client Partnership: Building strong, trust-based relationships with clients through open communication and transparent advice.
• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in team discussions, sharing insights, and contributing to a collective learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations teams often thrive on collaboration and a data-centric approach. Highlighting these values demonstrates an understanding of how to contribute effectively within a professional services context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Diverse Client Needs: Adapting consulting approaches to a wide range of game genres, target audiences, and client maturity levels.
• Data Interpretation Complexity: Synthesizing vast amounts of player data into clear, actionable insights that resonate with clients.
• Influencing Client Decisions: Effectively persuading clients to adopt recommended design changes, which may involve significant effort or strategic shifts.
• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously learning and adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape of game development, player behavior, and monetization strategies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Analytics Training: Opportunities to deepen skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and predictive analytics.
• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Support for attending key gaming industry events and specialized training sessions.
• Mentorship: Access to experienced consultants and leaders within Unity for guidance and career development.
• Internal Knowledge Base: Leveraging Unity's extensive internal documentation, best practices, and expert networks.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, embracing challenges often means optimizing processes for efficiency and effectiveness. Frame these challenges through an operational lens and highlight how continuous learning and adaptation are key to overcoming them.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used game data to significantly improve a game's performance. What was your process?" (Focus on your data analysis, strategy formulation, and impact measurement.)
• "How would you approach analyzing a game with declining player retention? What specific metrics would you look at and what initial hypotheses would you form?" (Demonstrate your analytical framework and problem-solving methodology.)
• "Imagine a client wants to implement a new monetization strategy. How would you guide them through the process, from concept to launch and analysis?" (Highlight your understanding of revenue models, process design, and performance tracking.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working with Unity and specifically in this consulting role?" (Research Unity's mission, values, and recent developments.)
• "How do you handle challenging clients or situations where your recommendations are not immediately accepted?" (Showcase your communication, negotiation, and client management skills.)
• "How do you stay current with gaming industry trends and best practices?" (Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning, relevant for operations professionals.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Story: For each case study, clearly outline the client's challenge, your analytical approach, the implemented solution, and the quantifiable results.
• Highlight Operational Impact: Emphasize how your actions led to improved efficiency, increased revenue, better player experience, or other business-critical outcomes.
• Data Visualization: Use clear charts and graphs to present data and demonstrate impact effectively.
• Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to be clear, confident, and engaging, ensuring you directly address the core requirements of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations candidates should prepare to discuss their experience using frameworks, process optimization, and data to achieve business goals, even if the context is game design. Quantifiable results and a structured approach are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-adjacent position:

• Submit your application through the Unity Technologies careers portal.
• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight transferable operations skills such as data analysis, strategic planning, process optimization, stakeholder management, and experience with revenue-driving initiatives. Use keywords from the job description.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong case studies that best demonstrate your ability to analyze performance, implement data-driven strategies, and achieve measurable business outcomes. Focus on projects where you can clearly articulate process and impact.
• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and quantifiable results. Be ready to discuss your methodology and how you approach problem-solving.
• Research Unity: Understand Unity's business model, its role in the gaming industry, and its company culture. Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewers.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides insights and context relevant to operations professionals applying for this role. While the core function is game design consulting, the emphasis on data, KPIs, and revenue optimization aligns with operations principles. Candidates should leverage this information to tailor their application and interview approach. All details should be verified directly with Unity Technologies.