Senior Gameplay Engineer

Stellar Entertainment Software Ltd; Utrecht; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible/hybrid working

Holiday Accrual Scheme

Discretionary bonus scheme

Access to cutting-edge hardware

13th Salary Scheme

Job summary

Stellar Entertainment Software Ltd is seeking a Senior Gameplay Engineer in Utrecht. This hands-on role requires designing engaging gameplay mechanics and collaborating with technical leads and designers on AAA titles.

The ideal candidate will possess strong C++ skills and a passion for video games. Benefits include flexible working, international projects, and a comprehensive healthcare plan.

Qualifications

• Experience as a Senior Gameplay Engineer or similar role.
• Strong knowledge in C++ and programming paradigms.
• Experience in game development and owning features.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement gameplay mechanics and systems.
• Write clean and efficient code while following best practices.
• Debug and optimize gameplay systems for performance.

Skills

C++

Debugging

Game engines (Unreal Engine or Unity)

Problem-solving

3D Maths and Physics

Tools

Source control systems

Job description

The Studio

We are a video game development studio with offices in Guildford, UK and Utrecht, Netherlands. Sitting within the heart of thriving communities of game developers and publishers, we focus on quality and excellence, and our partners and players are always at the front of everything we do.

Games are not just about gameplay. We believe in the importance of balancing every single aspect of a game that you, as a player will interact with; what you see, how you play and how it makes you feel.

It couldn’t be a more exciting time to join us as we embark on new unannounced projects, pushing the boundaries of all aspects of the game to create AAA experiences.

The Role

We’re now looking for a Senior Gameplay Engineer to join us as we create memorable gameplay experiences on our AAA titles. This is a hands‑on role that will work closely with our Lead Gameplay Engineer, Technical Directors and Designers to craft engaging gameplay mechanics, controls and systems – owning the process from the initial design concepts right the way through to implementation, with a focus on quality, performance and scalability.

Great gameplay is created by Engineers and designers that really care about how games feel in the hands of players. If you enjoy problem solving and seeing how your code and systems interact with our players, we’d love to hear from you.

As a Senior Gameplay Engineer, you will:

• Design, implement and own core gameplay mechanics, controls, and systems, working with Designers to prototype features and ensure successful integration
• Write clean, robust and efficient code, following best practices and coding standards.
• Debug and optimise gameplay systems to ensure continued stability and performance.
• Contribute to the development of tools and workflows to improve productivity and efficiency.
• Review code, mentor and advise other mid‑level Gameplay Engineers in the team.
• Participate in sprint and milestone planning and production reviews.

Requirements

What we’re looking to see on your CV:

• Experience in a Senior Gameplay Engineer position or similar.
• Proficient in C++ and familiar with both object‑oriented and data‑oriented programming.
• Previous experience owning a feature on a title.
• Strong knowledge of game engines, such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of 3D Maths and Physics.
• Experience with source control systems and collaborative development.
• Good problem‑solving and debugging skills.
• Excellent communication and team collaboration skills.
• Passion for video games and familiarity with various game genres.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment.

Bonus points for:

• More than one shipped title under your belt
• Experience with multiplayer or networked gameplay systems
• Familiarity with other Engineering disciplines like Animation, UI, or AI

Benefits

What you can expect from us:

Our UK Colleagues receive:

• Flexible hybrid working (we work 3 days per week on‑site)
• Holiday Accrual Scheme
• International AAA game projects;
• Access to cutting‑edge hardware;
• Discretionary bonus scheme
• Private Healthcare Plan incl. Dental and Eye care
• Pension Plan
• Life Assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme - Wellness Support
• Regular Team Incentives and Social Events

Our NL Colleagues receive:

• International AAA game projects
• Access to cutting‑edge hardware
• Flexible/hybrid working
• International working opportunities with our Guildford Studio
• Christmas Shutdown
• Holiday Allowance
• Discretionary bonus scheme
• 13th Salary Scheme (Vakantiegeld)
• Central Utrecht office
• Access to a well‑stocked fridge and snack cupboard
• Regular Team Incentives and Social Events