Senior Principal UI Programmer

Cloud Imperium Games; Manchester; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A video game development company in Manchester seeks a Senior Principal UI Programmer with strong motion graphics skills to enhance the UI framework for their ambitious sci-fi game. Candidates should have extensive experience in UI engine programming, particularly in motion graphics and tool development. Join them to revolutionize the game's design process using their proprietary Star Engine.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in UI engine programming in the games industry focused on motion graphics.
• Expert knowledge of UI architectures and animation systems.
• Strong programming skills in C++ with experience in animation frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Technical UI Director to evolve the UI framework and motion graphics systems.
• Design and implement animated UI systems for the game.
• Create responsive motion graphics for game menus and HUDs.

Skills

UI engine programming

Motion graphics expertise

C++ programming

Animation frameworks

Tool development

Communication skills

Job description

About the role

We're seeking an exceptional Senior Principal UI Programmer with strong motion graphics skills and tool development experience to work directly with our Technical UI Director in creating cutting‑edge, animated user interfaces and robust design tools for our ambitious AAA sci‑fi game using our proprietary Star Engine. Demonstrable experience of UI engine programming experience in the games industry, with a strong focus on motion graphics and tool development.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Technical UI Director to evolve our custom UI framework, motion graphics systems, and design tools within Star Engine.
• Design and implement advanced, animated UI systems tailored for our sci‑fi game's futuristic aesthetic.
• Create fluid, responsive motion graphics for game menus, HUDs, and in‑game interfaces.
• Develop and maintain robust, user‑friendly tools for UI designers to streamline their workflow and enhance productivity.
• Collaborate with designers and artists to understand their needs and create tools that support their creative process.
• Implement real‑time preview and iteration capabilities within the UI design tools.
• Contribute to the architectural decisions and technical direction of UI development, motion graphics, and design tools.
• Optimize performance of animated UI elements and ensure efficient integration with the design toolchain.
• Mentor junior team members in UI animation techniques, tool development, and best practices.
• Drive innovation in UI technology, motion design, and designer tools to enhance our sci‑fi game's development process and final product.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience of UI engine programming experience in the games industry, with a strong focus on motion graphics and tool development.
• Expert knowledge of UI architectures, animation systems, motion design principles, and tool development.
• Strong programming skills in C++ and experience with animation frameworks and tool development technologies.
• Proficiency with motion graphics software and ability to implement designs programmatically.
• Experience developing and maintaining custom UI design and animation tools.
• Demonstrated ability to understand designer workflows and translate them into efficient tools.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively with leadership, designers, and cross‑functional teams.

Why Join Us?

If you're passionate about creating cutting‑edge, animated UI and empowering designers with innovative tools for science fiction gaming, we want to hear from you! Join us in bringing the next generation of dynamic, immersive sci‑fi game interfaces to life and revolutionizing our UI design process with our groundbreaking Star Engine.

About CIG

As a key member of our UI team, you'll assist the Technical UI Director in shaping the future of our custom UI framework, motion graphics systems, and design tools within Star Engine. This high‑level role requires a unique blend of technical expertise, creative design skills, and the ability to develop intuitive tools that empower UI designers to bring their visions to life. 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. 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".

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.