Lead Gameplay Programmer

We are a crowdfunded company and have a dedicated and enthusiastic community of backers who are helping us create the “Best Damn Space Sim Ever”. We want to build the best we can deliver and we believe wholeheartedly in the value of exceptional diverse talent.

As a Lead Gameplay Programmer, you will lead development efforts using our bespoke, cutting-edge, multi-threaded engine to create innovative gameplay mechanics and systems that immerse players in the expansive and highly detailed spacescapes of some of the most ambitious games ever created.

You will drive the integration of the latest PC hardware, technology, and APIs, guiding your team in the development of a broad range of highly realistic and systemic features. These features simulate gameplay experiences ranging from multi-crew space flight combat and planetary first-person shooter missions to asteroid mining, cargo running, bounty hunting, and cinematic storytelling.

What do our Lead Gameplay Programmers do?

The day-to-day responsibilities of our Lead Gameplay Programmers vary, but in short, you will:

• Lead the design and implementation of well-engineered, reliable, maintainable, and bug-free code, ensuring alignment with project goals
• Mentor and guide the development team, offering technical direction and fostering a culture of collaboration
• Oversee the development of gameplay systems, ensuring integration across teams and timely delivery of features
• Establish and enforce best practices, development processes, and coding standards across the gameplay programming team
• Review and approve technical designs, conducting peer reviews with senior engineers, and offering constructive feedback

What do we expect from our Lead Gameplay Programmers?

A true passion for making games is a must, and we would also like it if you:

• Are highly proficient in C++ and experienced with managing and optimizing a large, shared codebase across teams
• Possess a strong knowledge of 3D mathematics and can apply this expertise to complex gameplay systems
• Have extensive experience leading the development of game features and systems from concept to implementation
• Excel at fostering a collaborative team environment, whether co-located or remote, and can mentor and guide other developers
• Communicate and present technical solutions clearly and effectively to both programmers and team members from other disciplines, translating complex ideas into actionable insights

CIG Diversity Statement

CIG is a global company, staunchly committed to cultivating a culture and workplace that celebrates all backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives. Together, we are creating a space where authentic recognition, appreciation, and understanding of the importance of diversity is fostered by everyone. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strive to build a team that represents all walks of life, and we want every employee to bring all the things that make them unique to the work environment. The universe is as vast and varied as the people in it, and it’s our differences that make it special.

We are aware of people receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from CIG. These types of fraud can be carried out through false websites, fake email addresses claiming to be from our company, or social media. We do not ask for your personal info like bank account numbers, identification numbers, etc through social media or chat-based apps, nor do we request or send money for the purchase of business equipment.

If you suspect fraud, please report it to your local authorities, as well as reaching out to us at info{@}cloudimperiumgames.com with any information you may have.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

About Us

Founded in 2012, Cloud Imperium Games creates cutting-edge videogames that defy expectations. We’re currently developing Star Citizen, a record-breaking multiplayer online space sim, and Squadron 42, a cinematic single-player adventure set in the same universe. Join us as we break boundaries and make videogame history.

With studios in Manchester, Los Angeles, Austin, and Frankfurt our colleagues work in a relaxed, innovative, and future thinking environment. We host various sports and social groups, such as tabletop games, wargaming, yoga, football, and tennis, to name a few.
We are a crowdfunded company and have a dedicated and enthusiastic community of backers who are helping us create the “Best Damn Space Sim Ever”.