Associate Mathematician
Uses advanced mathematical and statistical concepts and theories to analyze and collect data and construct solutions to business problems. Performs complex statistical analysis on experimental or business data to validate and quantify trends or patterns identified by business analysts. Constructs predictive models, algorithms and probability engines to support data analysis or product functions; verifies model and algorithm effectiveness based on real-world results. Designs experiments and methodologies to generate and collect data for business use. Projects may include a focus on “quantitative finance” or help identify new business opportunities. Incumbents whose primary function is performing basic statistical analysis of business data and building recommendations and plans for business actions should be matched to Business Intelligence. Incumbents whose primary role is technical and focused on designing and building system-generated reports, reporting tools and dashboards for data generation should be matched to Data Informatics. As an Associate Mathematician, you will collaborate with a team of highly skilled artists, software engineers, and game designers to deliver engaging and innovative gaming experience. Bring our games to life by developing the math models that drive slot game play. Success in this role requires strong collaboration, efficiency under pressure, and a proactive, positive attitude.
- Design and document math models for slot games, including pay tables, reel strips, feature triggers, and bonus structures, with clear demonstration of probabilities and Return to Player (RTP) through theoretical calculations and simulations.Modify the existing math models as per the requirements.
- Collaborate closely with game designers and other mathematicians to brainstorm new mechanics and features, assessing mathematical feasibility, risk profile, and expected player experience (e.g., hit rate, volatility, pacing).
- Build, run, and refine simulations to verify math models, stress-test edge cases, and gather performance statistics (e.g., win size distributions, session length, feature frequency).
- Work hand-in-hand with software engineers and math test engineers to ensure accurate implementation of math models, including debugging discrepancies between theoretical results and live game behaviour.
- Support regulatory compliance by preparing math documentation, responding to questions, and helping address issues raised during internal testing or certification.
- Iterate on game math throughout development, tuning parameters based on internal feedback, playtests, and early performance data while preserving the intended player experience, RTP targets, and jurisdictional requirements.
- Stay informed about slot games and market trends, analysing math structures and features from products and sharing insights with the team.
- 0–3 years of professional experience in applied mathematics, probability, statistics, combinatorics, or a closely related field; strong new graduates with relevant projects and interests will be considered.
- Experience designing or modeling systems with randomness (e.g., games, simulations, casino math, trading models, or similar).
- Demonstrated interest in slot machines, casino games, and/or game design-through professional experience, academic work, personal projects, or hobbyist game design (slots, table games such as blackjack, poker, baccarat, etc.) is preferred.
- Prior experience in the game or casino industry is preferred but not required; relevant internships, academic projects, or personal projects will be considered.
- Strong applied math skills with the ability to build, analyze, and balance stochastic models (e.g., RTP, hit frequency, volatility, bonus frequencies).
- Able to independently develop, evaluate, and iterate on new mathematical game concepts that align with player experience and product goals.
- Regularly contributes creative ideas and mechanics to game design discussions; comfortable collaborating with designers, artists, and producers and explaining math clearly to non-mathematicians.
- Proficiency with analytical and development tools, including:
- Strong Excel or similar spreadsheet skills for building and tuning math models.
- Experience with at least one programming or scripting environment for simulation and analysis (e.g. C#, C++, Python); C++ is a strong plus.
- Detail-oriented and comfortable with iterative work enjoys tuning parameters, validating results, and rigorously testing math models.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal; able to document math clearly and support math reviews with other teams.
Light & Wonder, Inc. is a leading cross-platform gaming company headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. Formerly known as Scientific Games, it rebranded in 2022 after divesting its lottery and sports-betting businesses to focus on gaming. The company operates across three segments - Gaming (slot machines, table games and casino systems under brands such as Bally, WMS and Shuffle Master), SciPlay (social casino games) and iGaming (online casino content). Listed in both the US and Australia, it supplies content and systems to casinos and online operators worldwide.
