Research Scientist Jobs in Irvine, CA

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled, detail-oriented Research Scientist with a strong Mathematical and Statistical background to join our team in Irvine, CA. In this role, you will research, design, and optimize the mathematical models behind our casino games—particularly slot machines—ensuring they are engaging, profitable, and compliant with global regulatory standards. You will collaborate with game designers, product managers, and engineers in a fast-paced, on-site environment, driving both research and product impact.

We're looking for a dedicated researcher in Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field, with expertise in probability theory, statistical modeling, and game mathematics/quality assurance. Fluency in Chinese is required, and you must be able to work on-site in Irvine, CA.

Responsibilities

Game Mathematics Design & Optimization

• Develop and refine core math models for slot machines and other casino games, ensuring they meet target Return to Player (RTP) rates, hit frequencies, and volatility goals.
• Balance player engagement, regulatory requirements, and long-term profitability through innovative mathematical solutions.

Probability & Bonus Mechanism Development

• Design and implement random mechanics, bonus rounds, free spins, jackpots, and other reward systems, verifying accuracy through combinatorial analysis and detailed probability calculations.
• Conduct detailed statistical analysis and develop suitable quantitative indices to describe the game performance accurately.
• Perform large-scale simulations and data analyses (using tools like Excel, Python, MATLAB, R, or custom code) to forecast game performance, validate math models, and optimize player retention.
• Thoroughly test and verify mathematical outcomes, ensuring they align with intended player experiences and business objectives.

Regulatory Compliance & Certification Support

• Prepare mathematical models, simulation reports, and documentation for certification by global regulatory bodies (e.g., GLI, BMM), ensuring international compliance across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with designers, developers, product managers, and marketing teams to translate complex math concepts into compelling gameplay, clear player communication, and userfriendly interfaces.
• Handle multiple projects simultaneously, providing ongoing updates and constructive feedback while navigating creative conflicts in a consensus-driven environment.

Field Research, Market Analysis & Continuous Improvement

• Stay current on industry trends, player behavior, and competitive products, using insights to shape innovative game mechanics.
• Play-test in-development games and analyze live performance data, identifying opportunities to improve math models, game features, and overall player satisfaction.
• Maintain comprehensive design documentation (e.g., game concepts, par sheets, pay tables, control files) and ensure effective communication with all stakeholders.

Basic Qualifications

• Master's in Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field (Required).
• Strong expertise in combinatorics, probability theory, and statistics, with demonstrable skill in mathematical modeling for game design.
• Experience with simulation/programming tools such as Python, MATLAB, R, C/C++/C#, or equivalent, for building prototypes, simulators, and data analyses.
• Fluency in Chinese (Required) and ability to communicate complex math concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Familiarity with regulatory bodies (GLI, BMM, or comparable) and gaming compliance standards.
• Must be able to work on-site in Irvine, CA 92618.

Preferred / Nice to Have

• PhD in Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
• Research experience with demonstrated success and publications in relevant fields.
• Experience with both land-based and online casino games.
• Experience in game mathematics, quality assurance, or mathematical validation for casino games (e.g., slot machines).
• Proficiency in simulation/programming tools such as Python, MATLAB, R, C/C++/C#, or equivalent, for building prototypes, simulators, and data analyses.
• Knowledge of player behavior modeling, player lifetime value estimation, and retention analysis.
• Exposure to machine learning techniques for predictive modeling and game optimization.
• Experience with algorithm development and optimization.
• Passion for gaming across multiple genres and a creative yet analytical approach to innovative game design.

Pay: From $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Language:

• Chinese (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Irvine, CA 92618 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Irvine, CA 92618: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person