A new Halo instalment may be in the works, if Microsoft job ads are anything to go buy.

Roughly 18 Halo-related positions are available at 343 Industries – an internal Microsoft division that serves as stewards for the Halo franchise. Jobs include Halo software development engineers, a senior concept artist, animation director and senior character artist.

“Microsoft Game Studios' 343 Industries is looking for a seasoned game developer to help develop a new experience in the Halo universe”, reads the description for one vacancy. “Work on one of the most exciting and creative intellectual properties in the industry; we are gathering an incredible team to help drive the future of Halo”.

All but three of the vacancies were posted onto Microsoft’s careers website this year, with nine of the roles – including “Animation Director-MGS-343 Industries-Halo Job” – posted today. All roles are based at Microsoft’s Redmond, US campus.

Naturally, none of the job descriptions give away what 343 Industries may have planned for for Halo. Though frequent references are made to “new experience” and development of “an incredible team to help drive the future of Halo”.

Halo 3:ODST - released back in September – is the latest addition to the videogame series. Talk of a spin-off version of the game for handheld consoles has persisted for years in the gaming world.

Further information about the available Halo-related positions is available online now. ®