Game Systems Engineer - RuneScape

Jagex; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading game development company in Cambridge is looking for a programmer specializing in C++ and Java to join the RuneScape Game Technologies Team. The role involves enhancing the RuneScape game engine and includes responsibilities like programming, maintaining internal systems, and working with a diverse team. Ideal candidates will have strong problem-solving skills and experience with established code bases. The company offers flexible working hours and a broad perks package.

Benefits

Private Healthcare

Minimum 6% Pension contributions

Employee Assistance Programme

Life Insurance

Discretionary annual performance bonus

Flexible working hours

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of an object-oriented language, preferably C++.
• Experience with established code bases required.
• Familiarity with version control systems necessary.

Responsibilities

• Program using core and other languages for assigned tasks.
• Work with team for code design and QA instructions.
• Maintain internal processes and systems for other developers.

Skills

C++

Java

Analytical mind

Strong problem-solving skills

Strong maths skills

Solid debugging skills

Tools

GIT

Perforce

Job description

Location: Cambridge, UK – (This position can accommodate flexible working options. However, candidates must be based (or be willing to relocate) within a comfortable commuting distance of our Cambridge office to be able to attend onsite as required)

As part of the RuneScape Game Technologies Team you will be working on the operation and on-going enhancement of the RuneScape game engine and associated systems, developing game systems that provide value to our customers and allow the product content developers to produce features.

Responsibilities

• Programming using the team’s core and other languages as required to service assigned and scheduled tasks.

• Work with production and senior members of the team to generate tasks and documentation detailing code design approach and implementation. Aid the test process by writing QA instructions + develop & update code-tests where applicable.

• Working on a variety of projects in the department covering various aspects of the group’s technological domain, making good use of support tools (e.g. Profiler, debugger, code-analysis tools) to ensure your code is of high quality.

• Start to take ownership and responsibility for some areas of the code base, becoming an expert, looking for improvements and sharing that knowledge with the team.

• Assess new technologies and adapt to and promote them where applicable.

• Perform maintenance tasks to keep internal processes and systems working in good order for other developers and for our internal customers.

• Provide realistic time estimates for assigned tasks to stakeholders, with tasks broken down to a suitable size and tracked according to current production process (e.g. Jira, sprints, etc.).

• Always aim to work efficiently and productively, striving for the most optimal ways to deliver value to our customers.

• Be willing to put forward ideas that can improve our technology or processes, and to positively critique those put forward by others.

• Build strong working relationships with team members across various disciplines.

Required

• Deep knowledge of an object-oriented language (preferably C++), design and design patterns

• Experience with Java

• Experience working on established code bases

• Analytical mind and strong problem-solving skills

• Strong maths skills and experience

• Solid debugging and profiling skills

• Familiarity with version control systems eg. GIT, Perforce

Desirable

• Mobile game development experience

• Experience with game systems

• Experience with Python

• Experience working on a live service game

What we offer

When you join Jagex you can look forward to a generous Perks & Benefits package including:

• Private Healthcare, including Dental Plan.

• Minimum 6% Pension contributions.

• Employee Assistance Programme & onsite Counselling.

• Life Insurance.

• Discretionary annual performance bonus.

• Enhanced family leave policies from day 1.

• Flexible working hours.

• 25 days annual leave + Bank holidays & the option to buy/sell holidays + so much more!

About Jagex

Jagex is a leader in developing and publishing deep, engaging online games that connect millions of players worldwide. Best known for the RuneScape franchise, which includes two of the world’s longest running and most successful MMORPGs, in Old School Runescape and Runescape, and the open-world survival crafting game, Runescape: Dragonwilds; we have proven success in delivering immersive Forever Games and fostering strong player communities.

We strive to foster an inclusive workplace built on trust, autonomy, and a shared passion for creating forever games.
Our values guide everything we do: We Embrace Fellowship by collaborating and sharing openly. We Hone our Craft by always learning and improving; we Honour our Vows by being honest and transparent; we are our Customers’ Heroes by striving to understand our team & player needs, and we Seize The Day by making the most of every opportunity.

With over two decades of experience, and over 400 people in our team, we continue to innovate in live game development, leveraging data-driven insights, and a commitment to player-first game design. We have a diverse and talented team where creativity, collaboration, and community-driven game development drives everything we do.

As part of Jagex, you’ll have the opportunity to work on a globally successful franchise, contribute to exciting new projects, and be part of a company that hugely values both our employees and our players.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, and we recruit, develop, and promote based on merit and ability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the recruitment process, please let us know when you’re invited to interview.