Lead Gameplay Programmer

Cloud Imperium Games; Manchester; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Cloud Imperium Games in the United Kingdom is seeking a Lead Gameplay Programmer to steer development of our bespoke multi-threaded engine, crafting innovative gameplay mechanics and systems that immerse players in expansive spacescapes. You will mentor engineers, oversee integration across teams, and ensure features ship on time while upholding high code quality.

Strong C++ expertise, experience leading game features from concept to implementation, and the ability to communicate complex ideas

Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in C++ and large codebases.
• Experience leading game features from concept to implementation.
• Ability to mentor and guide developers.

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

C++

Team leadership

3D math

Codebase management

Technical communication

Job description

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.

For more information about life at Cloud Imperium Games, check this out - https://youtu.be/cXjp7SRBpIA

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.

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