Senior Backend Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Stevenage; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company specializing in multiplayer gaming is seeking a Senior Backend Game Engineer. This role involves designing high-performance backend systems and collaborating across teams to deliver seamless online gameplay experiences. The ideal candidate will have significant expertise in backend programming languages and real-time networking concepts.

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in backend programming, proficient in at least two languages: C++, C#, Go, or NodeJS.
• 5+ years of experience in backend systems, ideally in gaming.
• Deep knowledge of real-time networking: WebSockets, RPCs, REST APIs.

Responsibilities

• Design and build high-performance backend systems for multiplayer gameplay.
• Develop matchmaking, lobby, authentication, and orchestration systems.
• Optimize and scale backend systems for performance and reliability.

Skills

Backend programming

C++

C#

Go

NodeJS

Real-time networking

Cloud platforms

Distributed systems

Microservices

Docker/Kubernetes

Job description

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UK Remote | Full-Time

We’re partnering with a renowned AAA co-development studio that specialises in tackling the toughest challenges in multiplayer game development. This fully remote team, distributed globally, is known for their ability to scale player counts, maximise density, and deliver truly immersive experiences in some of the world’s most innovative online games.

Their engineers work hand-in-hand with top-tier studios across the industry, seamlessly embedding within internal teams to bring ground breaking multiplayer titles to life. With communication, transparency, and engineering excellence at their core, this team has contributed to major global releases, and they're looking to grow.

We’re now hiring a Senior Backend Game Engineer to join this elite studio. In this role, you’ll be a key contributor to the backend systems that power scalable, real-time multiplayer games enjoyed by millions.

What You’ll Do

• Design and build high-performance backend systems to support online multiplayer gameplay across various platforms.
• Develop matchmaking, lobby, authentication, and orchestration systems to provide seamless player experiences.
• Create robust backend services using technologies such as C++, C#, Go, and NodeJS.
• Work closely with gameplay, networking, and DevOps teams to integrate systems with minimal latency.
• Optimise and scale backend systems for performance, reliability, and cost-efficiency.
• Develop APIs and microservices that facilitate smooth client-server communication.
• Contribute to planning and documentation processes with accurate scoping and delivery estimates.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven expertise in backend programming and proficient in at least two of: C++, C#, Go, or NodeJS (C++ and C# preferred).
• 5+ years of professional experience in backend systems, ideally in the gaming industry.
• Deep knowledge of real-time networking: WebSockets, RPCs, REST APIs, gRPC, etc.
• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Strong understanding of distributed systems, data structures, and algorithms.
• Familiarity with matchmaking logic, player sessions, and cheat prevention systems.
• Hands-on with microservices, Docker/Kubernetes, and orchestration tools.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and team collaboration skills.

Bonus Points For

• Experience with GBaaS platforms like PlayFab, AccelByte, Nakama, or Pragma.
• CI/CD and modern DevOps tools.
• Knowledge of major online platforms: Xbox Live, PSN, Steam, Nintendo.
• Understanding of Unreal Engine 5 networking and multiplayer architecture.