UI & Gameplay Programmer

Red Rover Interactive; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic game development studio in Manchester is seeking an Intermediate UI & Gameplay Programmer. The role involves designing immersive UI systems for a Survival PvP game using C++ and Unreal Engine. The ideal candidate should have at least 3 years of relevant experience and a strong understanding of UI/UX principles. Join the collaborative team that values innovation and creativity, with a hybrid work approach.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in game development, focusing on UI and gameplay programming.
• Experience creating or maintaining UI systems in a shipped game.
• Strong understanding of game development frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement user interface systems for a Survival PvP game.
• Collaborate with UI/UX designers to create high-quality in-game interfaces.
• Integrate UI with core gameplay systems for smooth player experiences.
• Optimize performance across UI systems and gameplay features.

Skills

Proficiency in C++

Understanding of UI/UX principles

Experience with Unreal Engine

Familiarity with networked game systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Game Development

Tools

Unreal Engine

Job description

Red Rover Interactive is an exciting new game development studio founded by industry veterans from renowned companies such as Funcom, Lockwood Publishing, Bohemia Interactive, Ubisoft Reflections, and more. We’re on a mission to reimagine the multiplayer gaming landscape, with an emphasis on crafting groundbreaking survival experiences that champion player agency and drama.

The Role

We are seeking a talented and driven Intermediate UI & Gameplay Programmer to join our dynamic development team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about creating immersive, player‑focused experiences, with a strong foundation in UI programming and gameplay systems. You will play a key role in shaping how players interact with our Survival PvP game, developing and implementing seamless, intuitive, and visually engaging UI elements, while contributing to the broader gameplay codebase.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize user interface systems for our Survival PvP game, ensuring they are responsive, performant, and visually aligned with the game’s tone and art direction.
• Collaborate closely with UI/UX designers, artists, and gameplay teams to translate design concepts into interactive, high‑quality in‑game interfaces.
• Develop modular and scalable UI frameworks that support data‑driven design and can be iterated on efficiently.
• Integrate UI with core gameplay systems, ensuring smooth communication between game state, HUD, menus, and player feedback systems.
• Write and maintain clean, efficient, and well‑documented code, primarily in Unreal Engine (C++ and/or Blueprints).
• Implement gameplay features and mechanics that complement UI functionality, maintaining a cohesive player experience.
• Work with QA and design to identify, debug, and resolve UI and gameplay‑related issues.
• Participate in code reviews and contribute to improving UI and gameplay programming best practices.
• Optimize performance across UI systems and gameplay features, ensuring responsiveness and minimal overhead on target platforms.
• Contribute creative input during design discussions, helping shape how players interact with core systems and features.

We Are Looking For Someone Who

• Proficiency in C++ and/or C# programming languages.
• Strong understanding of game development frameworks and Unreal Engine.
• Strong understanding of UI/UX principles, workflows, and best practices in game development.
• Experience creating or maintaining UI systems (HUDs, menus, inventories, notifications, etc.) in a live or shipped game.
• Familiarity with multiplayer and networked game systems is a plus.

In Addition, We Expect You To Have

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Game Development, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience in game development, with a focus on UI and gameplay programming.

How We Work

We strongly believe that our team and culture are integral to building creative and innovative games, to this end we prioritize an office‑first approach with hybrid home working options. With office locations in Oslo, Norway, and Newcastle, UK, we foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where each team member’s contribution is valued.

The Application Process

If you know someone on the team, feel free to reach out directly – a personal recommendation speaks volumes. Our hiring process is streamlined to respect your time. Expect an introductory call with our Head of People, followed by a formal interview and skills assessment. In the final interview, you’ll meet the remaining founding members to learn about our vision and strategy.

Our Ideal Candidate

• Flourish in a fast‑paced startup environment.
• Take initiative and drive development forward.
• Adapt effortlessly to wearing multiple hats.
• Foster innovation through a fail‑fast mindset.

Are you a trailblazer yearning to make a substantial impact? We’re seeking self‑driven professionals who meet the above criteria. If this resonates with you, we invite you to join the ranks of Red Rover Interactive!