Senior Game Technology Architect

Privacy Notice for California Applicants and Employees

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Meow Wolf opens portals of possibility. Come as you are! 

We are individuals who inspire creativity in people's lives through art and exploration, so that our combined imaginations can transform the world we live in. We create immersive and interactive experiences that transport audiences into fantastic realms of story and exploration.  Our Vision is to be the world’s leading creative company, reimagining the paradigm of art and storytelling, to make a positive difference in the world.  

We share a strong commitment to Belonging through our values of: 

• Collaborative Creativity: We believe the act of creating together amplifies possibilities.

• Provocative Playfulness:  We celebrate the unexpected because it is the doorway to discovery.

• Outsiders Welcome: We are all outsiders at heart, and we create space for everyone to feel like they belong.

• Authentic Compassion: We are “kind punks” - supportive to each other and standing up for what we believe in.

• Audacious Courage: We have the courage to radically reinvent ourselves to push the boundaries of art.

If this all sounds like YOU, read on….

Job Description:

Project-Based Position: This is a project based position with an anticipated duration of 12+ months.

Location:  On-site or Remote, providing the candidate resides in one of the following markets: Santa Fe, NM; Denver, CO; Las Vegas, NV; Houston, TX; Dallas, TX; New York, NY; or Los Angeles, CA 

Compensation: The starting base annual salary for this position starts at $131,357.  Compensation may vary based on location and experience.  

Deadline: The deadline for submitting applications for this position is April 15, 2026. Meow Wolf reserves the right to extend this deadline if needed.

Meow Wolf is seeking a Senior Game Technology Architect to bridge advanced game backend engineering with embedded systems design for our immersive interactive experiences. This role will lead the development of scalable backend game infrastructure while integrating hardware-driven systems that power interactive elements across Meow Wolf exhibitions.

The Senior Game Technology Architect will design and optimize backend services using technologies such as Nakama and modern cloud platforms, enabling real-time game mechanics that connect digital systems with physical interactive environments. The role also involves designing microcontroller-based hardware systems embedded within exhibits, integrating sensors, wireless communication technologies, and firmware that support immersive gameplay.

Working closely with engineers, creative teams, and product leaders, this position will translate complex game design concepts into scalable technical architecture while ensuring reliability, performance, and seamless guest interaction.

The ideal candidate thrives in innovative environments, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is excited to help shape the next generation of interactive gaming experiences within Meow Wolf exhibitions.

Key Responsibilities:

Backend Architecture & Game Mechanics

• Design, build, and optimize backend game infrastructure using Nakama and modern cloud technologies.

• Enable real-time interactions across exhibits, mobile applications, and virtual environments.

• Develop and deploy software systems that power next-generation interactive guest experiences.

• Design and manage databases, middleware, APIs, and distributed architecture systems.

• Troubleshoot backend performance issues and optimize system scalability.

• Implement best practices for development, testing, and deployment cycles.

• Collaborate closely with Platform Engineering teams and cross-functional development groups.

• Participate in backlog grooming, sprint planning, and Agile development cycles.

Embedded Systems Design

• Design and develop microcontroller-based PCBs and firmware for interactive exhibit systems.

• Integrate sensors and communication technologies such as RFID, BLE, and UWB.

• Optimize systems for low-power real-time performance and reliable wireless communication.

• Implement firmware updates, over-the-air (OTA) updates, and diagnostic systems for field operations.

Collaboration & Roadmapping

• Translate creative and gameplay concepts into scalable technical solutions.

• Define backend requirements and maintain a clear technical roadmap for development initiatives.

• Collaborate with creative leads, product managers, engineers, and technical teams.

• Support the development of integrated hardware and software ecosystems across exhibits.

Process & Performance

• Improve engineering workflows using Agile methodologies, code reviews, and CI/CD practices.

• Identify and resolve performance issues to ensure reliable game engine operation.

• Continuously refine development processes to accelerate innovation and iteration.

Documentation & Mentorship

• Produce architecture diagrams, technical documentation, and status reports for development teams and leadership.

• Mentor engineers on scalable backend architecture and efficient game system design.

• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field preferred.

• 3+ years of backend game engineering experience (Nakama or similar platforms preferred).

• 10+ years of technical programming experience in backend systems and services.

• Experience with programming languages such as TypeScript, Node.js, GraphQL, SQL, Python, or serverless technologies.

• Experience designing APIs, SDKs, and client libraries.

• Familiarity with AI-assisted development tools such as Cursor AI and Gemini Code Assist.

• Experience with elements of the technology stack, including Hasura, Directus, Google Cloud Platform, Nakama, and Cloudflare services.

• Excellent time management and delivery discipline.

Technical Proficiency

• Designing scalable backend systems and real-time data pipelines.

• Experience with cloud infrastructure, microservices architecture, and containerization.

• Strong proficiency with Git, Agile methodologies, and CI/CD pipelines.

• Hands-on experience with microcontrollers and embedded systems (UART, PWM, I²C, firmware development).

Communication & Collaboration

• Strong written, verbal, and visual communication skills.

• Ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

• Proven ability to collaborate across teams ranging from engineering staff to executive leadership.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed represent the knowledge, skills, education, training, experience, and abilities required.

Work Environment

This role operates within a professional technology and creative production environment, including both office and immersive exhibit spaces. The position regularly works with software development tools, embedded hardware systems, and cloud-based infrastructure while collaborating with engineers, designers, and product teams. Work may occur in environments that include active exhibits with dim lighting, sound effects, strobing lights, fog machines, and other sensory elements typical of immersive installations. The role may also involve working in technical build areas or near exhibit infrastructure where interactive hardware systems are installed and tested.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. The employee may spend extended periods sitting and working on a computer while writing code, reviewing system architecture, and participating in technical meetings. The role may also require standing, walking, and navigating exhibit or production environments during testing or installation of hardware systems. Occasional handling of small electronic components, tools, or equipment may be required, including fine motor skills for assembling or troubleshooting embedded systems. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

The employee will comply with company and OSHA standard workplace safety protocols. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Schedule

This is a full-time position with typical hours of Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. or 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on project needs.

Supervisor Responsibilities

This position does not include direct supervisory responsibilities.

Travel

This role may require 10–25% travel, depending on project needs.

Other Duties

This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of responsibilities. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

IMPACT: Meow Wolf is committed to our DIY roots and grassroots community support principles. To document that commitment, we converted our legal designation into a Delaware Public Benefit Corporation and have certified as a B Corporation. As a B Corp, we have a triple bottom line of supporting financial, social and environmental wellbeing in our community.

INCLUSION:  Meow Wolf is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to ensuring all employees enjoy and thrive in a work environment where differences make us the vibrant, wonderful community we are! All employment decisions at Meow Wolf are based on business need, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, veteran status, service in the military or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

BENEFITS:

The choices we make concerning our benefits during enrollment periods are among the most important we select for ourselves and our families. As part of the total compensation package for full-time employees, Meow Wolf offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes various options to meet individual healthcare and financial needs along with many perks.  

• Medical Insurance options: PPO & HDHP*

• Dental and Vision Insurance*

• HSA, HRA, and FSA options*

• 401k Retirement Plan

• Company paid Life Insurance Policy and Disability Coverage(s)*

• Voluntary Critical Illness and Life Insurance Policies*

• Company Paid Employee Assistance Program

• Paid Parental Leave for 12 weeks

• Discount off Meow Wolf Gift Shop Merch and Cafes

• Admission to Meow Wolf attractions for employees and guests

*Regular or Project Based Full-time positions

Please visit www.meowwolf.com/careers for more information.