Jobs at Keywords Studios

Positions 119,694

Keywords Studios is a worldwide partner for the video‑game industry, delivering localisation, QA, art production and cloud‑based tools to top publishers. With over 7,000 employees in 30+ countries, the company blends creative talent with engineering to keep games release‑ready.

The firm hires a mix of technical roles—from software engineers building game‑support pipelines to DevOps specialists managing cloud infrastructure—alongside non‑technical positions such as localisation project managers, QA analysts and data scientists. Applicants can expect cross‑functional teams, iterative sprints, and opportunities to work on titles that reach millions of players.

Job Transparency shows exact salary ranges and employee sentiment for each Keywords Studios posting, allowing candidates to benchmark offers, spot geographic pay differences and negotiate from informed positions.

Lead Mission Scripter

Company: Turtle Rock Studios

Location: North Suburbs

Posted Sep 17, 2023

You will be working closely with our entire game team to create lasting memories.ResponsibilitiesResponsible for maintaining mission script quality, while respecting technical limitations and performance targets. Provide mentorship and coaching for team members including but not limited to: 1:1s, career development, performance evaluations, goal setting, and hiring.Work closely with the Design Director and gameplay, level, and mission designers to craft fun scenarios, events, and missions ensuring gratifying player experiences. Guide the development of efficient tools and best practices for mission scripting and the gameplay experience. Conceptualize, develop, polish, and maintain exciting and engaging gameplay content. Own technical implementation of mission systems for gameplay and levelsShare constructive feedback and lead continuous open discussions regarding gameplayPlaytest with both the studio and the design team to review and develop missions Requirements7+ years of experience in game development with one or more AAA titles shipped on multiple platforms2+ years experience in a Lead roleA strong portfolio demonstrating experience with heavily scripted missions and/or dynamic objectivesLove of games: specifically FPS, Co-op, and Multiplayer gamesExperience working with game engine (we use Unreal Engine with Blueprint, but Unity or  proprietary engines welcome) with a strong understanding of implementation and integration into the pipeline. People manager with a desire to mentor team and foster growthGreat knowledge of mission/level design process from conception to completion, with a strong sense of pacing and testingAbility to thrive in a highly collaborative and iterative team-oriented environmentPreferencesExperience with Unreal Engine and BlueprintSome knowledge of C++Demonstrated experience working on cooperative FPSFamiliarity with development tools such as Perforce, JIRA, and ConfluenceBenefitsSome of the benefits and perks our employees get to enjoy, include:100% Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage for you and your family401k MatchingProfit Sharing PlanStudent Loan Repayment Plan / College Savings PlanCareer Improvement PlanFlexible Work Arrangements - In-House, Hybrid, and RemoteGenerous Time Off PolicyCompany Events - In-Person Summer Family Bash + Halloween Party + Virtual EventsFully Stocked Kitchen + Sponsored Food TrucksThe estimated base pay range for this role is: $140,000 —$195,000 USD While we are based in Orange County, CA, we support flexible work arrangements ranging from in-studio, hybrid, to fully remote throughout North America. Through close collaboration with our creative team, you will be crafting fun and memorable gameplay experiences with Turtle Rock Studios, best know for Left 4 Dead and Back 4 Blood! Join our award-winning game development team and help create our next AAA title.Do you enjoy coming up with creative, fun ideas and situations for gameplay? At Turtle Rock, we make the games we want to play. We're dedicated to providing a collaborative environment where our team members feel empowered with the creative freedom to contribute and grow.

Environment Artist

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 19, 2023

Self-direction, passion, and creativity in your work. In addition to your salary, our comprehensive compensation package includes various perks, such as potential annual bonuses (though they are not guaranteed), health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and flexible time-off benefits. Additional Qualifications Experience or skill in one or more additional disciplines (character, vfx, level design, etc.). Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. Ability to create from your own ideas, not just from pre-existing concept art. Strong communication and organizational skills. Be proactive in problem-solving, cross-discipline brainstorming, and have the ability to represent the Environment Art team in appropriate meetings throughout project production cycles. Collaborate with the Art Director, Game Designers, and Programmers to ensure art assets are high-quality, support the artistic direction of our projects, and are fully optimized for target platforms. Expert in both Substance Designer and Painter. Strong understanding of physically-based rendering and NPR shader techniques.

Senior Mission Designer

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 17, 2023

Proactive in problem-solving, cross-discipline brainstorming, and representing the Design team in appropriate meetings throughout project production cycles 4+ years of experience in a leadership position Velan Studios comprises a team of remote, hybrid, and onsite professionals, with hybrid and onsite team members operating from our Troy, NY office. Utilizing existing mechanics and gameplay events as a basis for the missions, you will use your creativity to help choose and implement compelling, imaginative and challenging play scenarios Pitch, design and implement repeatable content and game features, utilizing our mission tools Write, edit and evaluate design documents Collaborate with other departments to make sure that the missions your team produces are complete and follow best practices of script and asset implementation Adhere to narrative and gameplay guidelines and deliver on the intended gameplay experience, always putting the player first Run regular play sessions with the team and external users, facilitate discussion, and document results Integrate feedback from leads, user tests, and QA reviews into your work and the work of your team Requirements 7+ years as a Game or Mission Designer with experience mentoring other designers Worked on or shipped multiple AAA game title using Unreal technology An excellent understanding of visual scripting, with a portfolio of work Experience creating open-world, story-based game content, especially missions or quests Deep understanding of game design principles and what makes missions fun, fair and memorable Excellent written, oral communication and leadership skills Proficiency creating 3D geometry in a level building tool or 3D editor, such as Unreal or Maya Strong organizational and communication skills and the ability to work productively and efficiently toward deadlines Self-direction, passion, collaboration, and creativity in your work and the ability to multiply the effectiveness in others Technical understanding of design pipelines and scripting Additional Qualifications Programming or scripting experience Other areas of design expertise (systems, combat, etc.) Responsibilities Work closely with the Game Director to mentor and maintain quality of Mission Design throughout the project, taking oversight responsibility for implementing multiple locations, story-lines and character arcs Supervising other designers, take responsibility for concepting and implementing high quality story-based missions into an open-world narrative framework. We're committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional gaming, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, and revolutionizing the industry one game at a time. to contribute on different teams and projects. We are the creative minds behind titles like Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit, Knockout City, and Hot Wheels Rift Rally, and our journey continues! Our studio's mission is to pioneer groundbreaking gaming experiences and reimagine play in new ways. At Velan Studios, we foster a culture of curiosity. Our games embrace diversity and are fueled by the adventurous spirit of our team.

Mission Designer

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 17, 2023

In addition to your salary, our comprehensive compensation package includes various perks, such as potential annual bonuses (though they are not guaranteed), health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and flexible time-off benefits. Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. Velan Studios comprises a team of remote, hybrid, and onsite professionals, with hybrid and onsite team members operating from our Troy, NY office. Utilizing existing mechanics and gameplay events as a basis for the missions, you will use your creativity to help choose and implement compelling, imaginative and challenging play scenarios Pitch, design and implement repeatable content and game features, utilizing our mission tools Write, edit and evaluate design documents Collaborate with other departments to make sure that the missions your team produces are complete and follow best practices of script and asset implementation Adhere to narrative and gameplay guidelines and deliver on the intended gameplay experience, always putting the player first Run regular play sessions with the team and external users, facilitate discussion, and document results Integrate feedback from leads, user tests, and QA reviews into your work and the work of your team Requirements 7+ years as a Game or Mission Designer with experience mentoring other designers Worked on or shipped multiple AAA game title using Unreal technology An excellent understanding of visual scripting, with a portfolio of work Experience creating open-world, story-based game content, especially missions or quests Deep understanding of game design principles and what makes missions fun, fair and memorable Excellent written, oral communication and leadership skills Proficiency creating 3D geometry in a level building tool or 3D editor, such as Unreal or Maya Strong organizational and communication skills and the ability to work productively and efficiently toward deadlines Self-direction, passion, collaboration, and creativity in your work and the ability to multiply the effectiveness in others Technical understanding of design pipelines and scripting Additional Qualifications Programming or scripting experience Other areas of design expertise (systems, combat, etc.) Proactive in problem-solving, cross-discipline brainstorming, and representing the Design team in appropriate meetings throughout project production cycles 4+ years of experience in a leadership position The salary for this position is typically within the range specified below* per year. Responsibilities Work closely with the Game Director to mentor and maintain quality of Mission Design throughout the project, taking oversight responsibility for implementing multiple locations, story-lines and character arcs Supervising other designers, take responsibility for concepting and implementing high quality story-based missions into an open-world narrative framework. We're committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional gaming, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, and revolutionizing the industry one game at a time. *$75,000 - $130,000 We are the creative minds behind titles like Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit, Knockout City, and Hot Wheels Rift Rally, and our journey continues! to contribute on different teams and projects.

Mission Designer

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 17, 2023

In addition to your salary, our comprehensive compensation package includes various perks, such as potential annual bonuses (though they are not guaranteed), health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and flexible time-off benefits. Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. Velan Studios comprises a team of remote, hybrid, and onsite professionals, with hybrid and onsite team members operating from our Troy, NY office. Utilizing existing mechanics and gameplay events as a basis for the missions, you will use your creativity to help choose and implement compelling, imaginative and challenging play scenarios Pitch, design and implement repeatable content and game features, utilizing our mission tools Write, edit and evaluate design documents Collaborate with other departments to make sure that the missions your team produces are complete and follow best practices of script and asset implementation Adhere to narrative and gameplay guidelines and deliver on the intended gameplay experience, always putting the player first Run regular play sessions with the team and external users, facilitate discussion, and document results Integrate feedback from leads, user tests, and QA reviews into your work and the work of your team Requirements 5+ years as a Game or Mission Designer with experience mentoring other designers Worked on or shipped multiple AAA game title using Unreal technology An excellent understanding of visual scripting, with a portfolio of work Experience creating open-world, story-based game content, especially missions or quests Deep understanding of game design principles and what makes missions fun, fair and memorable Excellent written, oral communication and leadership skills Proficiency creating 3D geometry in a level building tool or 3D editor, such as Unreal or Maya Strong organizational and communication skills and the ability to work productively and efficiently toward deadlines Self-direction, passion, collaboration, and creativity in your work and the ability to multiply the effectiveness in others Technical understanding of design pipelines and scripting Additional Qualifications Programming or scripting experience Other areas of design expertise (systems, combat, etc.) Proactive in problem-solving, cross-discipline brainstorming, and representing the Design team in appropriate meetings throughout project production cycles 4+ years of experience in a leadership position The salary for this position is typically within the range specified below* per year. Responsibilities Work closely with the Game Director to mentor and maintain quality of Mission Design throughout the project, taking oversight responsibility for implementing multiple locations, story-lines and character arcs Supervising other designers, take responsibility for concepting and implementing high quality story-based missions into an open-world narrative framework. We're committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional gaming, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, and revolutionizing the industry one game at a time. *$75,000 - $130,000 We are the creative minds behind titles like Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit, Knockout City, and Hot Wheels Rift Rally, and our journey continues! to contribute on different teams and projects.

Character Artist

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 17, 2023

In addition to your salary, our comprehensive compensation package includes various perks, such as potential annual bonuses (though they are not guaranteed), health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and flexible time-off benefits. Experience with character customization pipelines Rigging, skinning, and animation experience. Self-direction, passion, and creativity in your work. Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. Leadership and/or mentoring experience. Expertise in modeling, sculpting, topology, and texturing and material work for characters. Experience working in Unreal, Unity or other AAA Game Development Engines. Solid understanding of modern pbr material authoring techniques Advanced understanding of ZBrush, Maya, Adobe Photoshop, Substance Painter and/or other game production tools. Strong communication and organizational skills. Additional Qualifications Concept and creative ideation (2D or 3D).

Lead Mission Scripter

Company: Turtle Rock Studios

Location: North Suburbs

Posted Sep 17, 2023

You will be working closely with our entire game team to create lasting memories.ResponsibilitiesResponsible for maintaining mission design quality, while respecting technical limitations and performance targets. Provide mentorship and coaching for team members including but not limited to: 1:1s, career development, performance evaluations, goal setting, and hiring.Work closely with the Design Director and gameplay, level, and mission designers to craft fun scenarios, events, and missions ensuring gratifying player experiences. Conceptualize, develop, polish, and maintain exciting and engaging gameplay content. Own creative and technical implementation of mission systems for gameplay and levelsGuide the development of efficient tools and best practices for mission scripting and the gameplay experience. Share constructive feedback and lead continuous open discussions regarding gameplayPlaytest with both the studio and the design team to review and develop missions Requirements7+ years of experience in game development with one or more AAA titles shipped on multiple platforms2+ years experience in a Lead roleLove of games: specifically FPS, Co-op, and Multiplayer gamesA strong portfolio demonstrating experience with heavily scripted missions and/or dynamic objectivesExperience working with game engine (such as Unreal Engine, Unity, or proprietary engines) with a strong understanding of implementation and integration into the pipeline. People manager with a desire to mentor team and foster growthGreat knowledge of mission/level design process from conception to completion, with a strong sense of pacing and testingAbility to thrive in a highly collaborative and iterative team-oriented environmentPreferencesExperience with Unreal Engine and BlueprintSome knowledge of C++Demonstrated experience working on cooperative FPSFamiliarity with development tools such as Perforce, JIRA, and ConfluenceBenefitsSome of the benefits and perks our employees get to enjoy, include:100% Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage for you and your family401k MatchingProfit Sharing PlanStudent Loan Repayment Plan / College Savings PlanCareer Improvement PlanFlexible Work Arrangements - In-House, Hybrid, and RemoteGenerous Time Off PolicyCompany Events - In-Person Summer Family Bash + Halloween Party + Virtual EventsFully Stocked Kitchen + Sponsored Food TrucksThe estimated base pay range for this role is: $140,000 —$195,000 USD While we are based in Orange County, CA, we support flexible work arrangements ranging from in-studio, hybrid, to fully remote throughout North America. Through close collaboration with our creative team, you will be crafting fun and memorable gameplay experiences with Turtle Rock Studios, best know for Left 4 Dead and Back 4 Blood! Join our award-winning game development team and help create our next AAA title.Do you enjoy coming up with creative, fun ideas and situations for gameplay? At Turtle Rock, we make the games we want to play. We're dedicated to providing a collaborative environment where our team members feel empowered with the creative freedom to contribute and grow.

Senior Character Artist

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 17, 2023

Experience with character customization pipelines Rigging, skinning, and animation experience. Self-direction, passion, and creativity in your work. Leadership and/or mentoring experience. Expertise in modeling, sculpting, topology, and texturing and material work for characters. Experience working in Unreal, Unity or other AAA Game Development Engines. Solid understanding of modern pbr material authoring techniques Advanced understanding of ZBrush, Maya, Adobe Photoshop, Substance Painter and/or other game production tools. Strong communication and organizational skills. Additional Qualifications Concept and creative ideation (2D or 3D). Requirements Experience with and examples of realistic AAA quality character art 5+ years of industry experience as a Character Artist, or other relevant experience. Ability to create high-quality characters based on existing concept art in addition to working with the animation team with the goal of creating high quality, expressive characters.

Character Artist

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 17, 2023

In addition to your salary, our comprehensive compensation package includes various perks, such as potential annual bonuses (though they are not guaranteed), health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and flexible time-off benefits. Experience with character customization pipelines Rigging, skinning, and animation experience. Self-direction, passion, and creativity in your work. Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. Leadership and/or mentoring experience. Expertise in modeling, sculpting, topology, and texturing and material work for characters. Experience working in Unreal, Unity or other AAA Game Development Engines. Solid understanding of modern pbr material authoring techniques Advanced understanding of ZBrush, Maya, Adobe Photoshop, Substance Painter and/or other game production tools. Strong communication and organizational skills. Additional Qualifications Concept and creative ideation (2D or 3D).

Environment Artist

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 19, 2023

Self-direction, passion, and creativity in your work. In addition to your salary, our comprehensive compensation package includes various perks, such as potential annual bonuses (though they are not guaranteed), health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and flexible time-off benefits. Additional Qualifications Experience or skill in one or more additional disciplines (character, vfx, level design, etc.). Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. Ability to create from your own ideas, not just from pre-existing concept art. Strong communication and organizational skills. Be proactive in problem-solving, cross-discipline brainstorming, and have the ability to represent the Environment Art team in appropriate meetings throughout project production cycles. Collaborate with the Art Director, Game Designers, and Programmers to ensure art assets are high-quality, support the artistic direction of our projects, and are fully optimized for target platforms. Expert in both Substance Designer and Painter. Strong understanding of physically-based rendering and NPR shader techniques.

Associate Systems Engineer (IT Support Specialist)

Company: Company3/Method Studios

Location: Santa Monica

Posted Sep 11, 2023

Company 3 is seeking an Associate Systems Engineer (IT Support Specialist) in Santa Monica, CA. The role involves providing helpdesk/technical support, troubleshooting system issues, and performing routine system and server administration tasks. The ideal candidate should have knowledge of Linux (CentOS), MacOS, and Windows Operating systems, excellent communication skills, and the ability to travel for system deployments. The company offers a competitive pay range of $30 - $34 USD hourly, comprehensive benefits, and a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment.

Programmer

Company: Velan Studios

Location: Columbus, OH

Posted Sep 10, 2023

Core engine systems. Content creator tools. Respect for players and colleagues. Regional technology and game development community engagement. Firmware for custom hardware. User interface design and implementation. Rendering architecture and shader development. Ready for the responsibility that comes from that respect. Network services and multiplayer support. Future members of our team need to be ready to embrace our studio values including: World class games through unconventional thinking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is it like to work at Keywords Studios?
Work at Keywords Studios feels like being part of a global studio that treats every project as a game‑development sprint. Teams operate in agile environments, with frequent stand‑ups and cross‑disciplinary collaboration. The company encourages continuous learning by sponsoring certifications, hackathons, and internal knowledge‑sharing sessions. Employees often report high levels of engagement due to the chance to see their work directly impact game releases worldwide.
What types of positions are available at Keywords Studios?
Keywords Studios hires across five core areas: 1) Software & Engineering – game tooling, automation, cloud services. 2) QA & Testing – manual and automated test design. 3) Production & Project Management – coordinating localisation and content pipelines. 4) Creative & Art – 2D/3D asset creation, animation, UX design. 5) Data & Analytics – performance metrics, player analytics, AI tooling.
How can I stand out as an applicant for Keywords Studios?
To stand out: 1) Tailor your résumé to the specific role, highlighting relevant tools (Unity, Unreal, Jenkins, Jira). 2) Showcase portfolio or GitHub projects that demonstrate problem‑solving in game‑support contexts. 3) Provide metrics—e.g., reduced build times by X% or increased localisation throughput. 4) Mention certifications such as AWS Certified DevOps Engineer or ISTQB. 5) Prepare for behavioral questions by mapping your experience to Keywords Studios' value of collaboration and rapid iteration.

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