Network Programmer

Steel City Interactive; Sheffield; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A game development studio in Sheffield seeks an experienced Gameplay Network Engineer to optimize network systems for their boxing game, Undisputed. You will work on developing reliable, high-performance data transmission for competitive multiplayer gameplay. Ideal candidates have experience in network programming, Unreal Engine, and a passion for game development.

Benefits

23 days annual leave, increasing with service

Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay

Private Healthcare

Flexible working hours

Learning days

Wrap parties & company outings

Qualifications

• Proven experience in gameplay network programming.
• Deep knowledge of Unreal Engine's networking architecture.
• Experience with C++ and Unreal Engine 4 or 5 networking pipelines.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain network systems for gameplay.
• Optimize network packet transportation at the transport layer.
• Collaborate with gameplay and server teams on networked systems.

Skills

Gameplay network programming

Unreal Engine networking

C++

Network protocols (UDP, TCP)

Network debugging

3D maths

Software architecture

Communication

Job description

Overview

You are an experienced Gameplay Network Engineer, having worked on fast-paced multiplayer titles such as FPS games or similar genres within Unreal Engine, with expertise in optimizing network replication patterns at the transport layer to ensure seamless, low-latency gameplay for competitive environments. We are looking for an Intermediate/Senior Gameplay Network Engineer to help shape the future of our multiplayer boxing game, Undisputed. As we pivot to UE5, you will be responsible for developing and optimizing network systems to ensure reliable, high-performance data transmission for fast-response gameplay between two players, maintaining AAA fidelity in a competitive multiplayer context. You will be working in collaboration with a highly talented, diverse team to create world-class networked gameplay.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain network systems for our game, focusing on Unreal Engine's replication framework to ensure reliable and efficient data transmission for two-player boxing matches.
• Optimize network packet transportation at the transport layer, minimizing latency and bandwidth usage for critical gameplay elements like character movements, player-to-player interactions, and physics-based world interactions.
• Collaborate with gameplay and server teams to integrate networked systems with character physics and animation pipelines, ensuring synchronized states across clients.
• Implement and refine replication patterns, such as prioritized data, delta compression, and predictive systems, to support fast-paced, responsive multiplayer gameplay.
• Debug and resolve network-related issues, including desyncs, packet loss, and latency spikes, using profiling tools and network debugging techniques.
• Prototype new networked features, such as lag compensation or rollback to enhance the multiplayer experience.
• Optimize network performance for cross-platform play (consoles and PC), ensuring scalability and reliability under varying network conditions.
• Contribute to code reviews, best practices, and documentation for the networking and gameplay teams.
• Stay current with Unreal Engine networking updates and emerging multiplayer technologies.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in gameplay network programming, particularly for multiplayer titles like FPS or melee-combat focused games.
• Deep knowledge of Unreal Engine's networking architecture, including replication, RPCs, and transport layer data optimization.
• Experience with C++ and Unreal Engine 4 or 5 networking pipelines and tools.
• Strong understanding of network protocols (e.g., UDP, TCP) and techniques for optimizing data sent over the wire in real-time games.
• Proven experience with network debugging, profiling, and performance optimization for low-latency gameplay.
• Strong understanding of 3D maths, data structures, and multiplayer synchronization techniques.
• Solid understanding of software architecture and engineering best practices.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Self-driven with a proactive mindset and attention to detail.
• A genuine passion for games and game development.
• Experience with rollback netcode is a bonus.
• Experience of Character AI Systems a bonus.

About SCI and Undisputed

SCI was born out of passion for video games and boxing, with the ambition to create an authentic and exciting boxing game that does justice to the sport we love. What started as a fun prototype has grown into Undisputed, the first major boxing video game in over a decade. SCI is a welcoming place for expression and open communication, where everyone has a voice. We are a diverse group with decades of games industry experience, graduates, and talented individuals from other industries, all learning from each other and driven by ambition to bring the world of boxing into a video game like never before.

Benefits and Perks

• Healthy work-life balance:
  • 23 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing 1 day per year of service.
  • Christmas shutdown
  • Holiday exchange programme
  • Flexible working hours & pattern (Certain Hybrid models available)
• Support for family life:
  • Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay
  • Private Healthcare which includes Optical & Dental
• Great office environment:
  • A dog friendly studio based in Sheffield, with free snacks, fruit and drinks!
  • Free parking
• Health & wellbeing support:
  • Company sick pay
  • 2 days paid Mental Health leave per year
  • Access to 24/7 doctors
  • Employee Assistance Programme
• Learning support:
  • Learning days
• Additional financial support:
  • Technology scheme (up to £750)
  • Discretionary Cost of Living Payments
  • Relocation benefits (subject to eligibility requirements)
  • Electric Car Vehicle Scheme (subject to eligibility requirements)
  • Discretionary Bonus
• Connection and perks:
  • Wrap parties & company paid outings
  • Individual entertainment budget to cover team events