Job Description

As a Director of QA at Annapurna Interactive, you will be responsible for managing multiple external QA teams and overseeing the testing process across multiple game projects, including qualitative playtests with external focus groups. You will collaborate closely with producers, developers, and designers to ensure our games are free of bugs, optimized for performance, and provide a seamless user experience. This role requires a deep understanding of the game development process, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for delivering polished, high-quality games to market.

Responsibilities:

• Define and execute the QA strategy, vision, and roadmap across all stages of product lifecycle for multiple products, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Act as a charismatic, client-facing leader, regularly interfacing with clients, vendors and the executive team to communicate QA goals, timelines, and results effectively.
• Oversee negotiations with external QA vendors and other stakeholders, ensuring favorable terms that align with our quality standards and project budgets.
• Lead and manage the submission and certification processes for PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo platforms, ensuring compliance with each platform's requirements.
• Continuously assess and refine QA methodologies and processes, implementing best practices to improve efficiency, reduce defect rates, and ensure thorough testing coverage.
• Work closely with external production, design, engineering, and art teams to ensure QA is integrated into the development process from early stages through to post-launch.
• Oversee the development of test plans, test cases, and testing schedules; ensure both manual and automated tests are executed to maintain high-quality standards.
• Coordinate with multiple external QA vendors, ensuring their work aligns with our internal standards, schedules, and objectives.
• Use analytics, performance metrics, and player feedback to refine testing strategies and anticipate potential issues.
• Identify project risks early, communicate issues effectively, and propose solutions to avoid impacts on quality and schedules.
• Stay current with industry trends, tools, and practices, and implement new techniques to enhance the QA function and its effectiveness.

Qualifications:

• 8+ years in video game development with at least 5 years in QA, 3 years in game publishing and 3 years in a leadership role (Manager, Senior Producer, or similar).
• Familiarity with first-party certification processes (Sony, Microsoft, Nintendo) is mandatory. Proven experience shipping multiple AAA or critically acclaimed indie games with in-depth knowledge of platform requirements and standards for PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo. Strong understanding of game development cycles, from pre-production to post-launch.
• Experience working with bug tracking and test case management tools (e.g., YouTrack, TestRail).
• Proficient in Agile and/or Scrum methodologies, with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, able to clearly articulate goals, timelines, and requirements across diverse teams.
• Proven track record of building and leading high-performing internal and external teams, with the presence to engage effectively with clients and executives.
• Strong ability to negotiate contracts and partnerships, ensuring favorable terms that align with project and quality objectives.
• Strong analytical mindset, able to leverage data and insights to make informed QA decisions and improvements.
• Ability to anticipate and address quality issues proactively, ensuring a high standard of gameplay experience for players.
• Proven experience working with and managing multiple external QA vendors

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with mobile games or mobile QA is a plus.
• Experience working with game engines such as Unity, Unreal, or proprietary engines.
• Familiarity with automated testing tools, performance profiling, version control systems, and relevant QA methodologies is a plus.

Location:

• Los Angeles and remote US locations

Base Salary Range:

• $200,000 - $250,000 (based on experience and geographic market)

Perks and Benefits:

Competitive salary and bonus structure.

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.

Unlimited vacation and generous holiday policy.

Access to industry events and conferences.

Work alongside a passionate, creative team on critically acclaimed projects.

Opportunity to make a significant impact on the quality of beloved games.

How to Apply: Please send your resume, cover letter, and any relevant portfolio materials to [email protected] with the subject line Interactive Publishing QA Director - Application.

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