Principal Software Engineer - Engine Data Model

Roblox Corporation; San Mateo (CA); Hybrid; USD 289,000 - 339,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to innovate on core data structures of their game engine. This role offers the chance to shape the future of interactive experiences, working on high-performance technologies that empower creators worldwide. You will collaborate across teams to enhance product quality and lead initiatives that ensure optimal functionality across various devices. With a flexible work environment and a strong focus on employee well-being, this position is perfect for those passionate about technology and eager to make a significant impact in the gaming world.

Benefits

Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage

401k program

Flexible vacation policy

Free catered lunches

Fully stocked kitchens

Onsite fitness center

Annual CalTrain Go Pass

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience with C++ and code-generation tools.
• Strong understanding of CPU operations and memory management.

Responsibilities

• Develop engine code for user-created games on the Roblox platform.
• Lead technical direction and mentor engineers on best practices.

Skills

C++

Code-generation tools

Memory management

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's in Computer Science

Master's in Computer Science

Tools

libclang

Abstract Syntax Trees

Job description

Every day, tens of millions of people come to Roblox to explore, create, play, learn, and connect with friends in 3D immersive digital experiences– all created by our global community of developers and creators.

At Roblox, we’re building the tools and platform that empower our community to bring any experience that they can imagine to life. Our vision is to reimagine the way people come together, from anywhere in the world, and on any device. We’re on a mission to connect a billion people with optimism and civility, and looking for amazing talent to help us get there.

A career at Roblox means you’ll be working to shape the future of human interaction, solving unique technical challenges at scale, and helping to create safer, more civil shared experiences for everyone.

As a Principal Software Engineer of the Game Engine data model team, you will innovate on the core data structures that form the backbone of Roblox’s platform. In this role you will have first hand opportunity to design and build one of the core technologies that makes the Roblox game engine special.

The Data Model framework provides an interface between engine capabilities and our creators. It also acts as a fabric to core technologies, such as networking, scripting, studio, rendering and physics which are essential to the high performance of the Roblox game engine. This role is in our San Mateo, CA HQ three days a week (Tuesdays to Thursdays).

You Have:

• At least 8+ years experience and expertise with C++ code-generation and analysis tools (libclang, Abstract Syntax Trees, etc).
• Curiosity about the actual work the CPU does when you use smart pointers, templates, virtual functions, and blocks of memory, both structured and raw.
• BS or MS in Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience.

You Will:

• Develop engine code that performs well for all user-created games on the Roblox platform.
• Establish the foundational architecture and technical direction for the team.
• Work cross-functionally, across teams and technology platforms to deliver high quality and amazing functionality.
• Lead by example and mentor engineers to implement technological best practices, patterns, and strategies.
• Improve the product quality by encouraging automation testing.
• Take Ownership of projects throughout their full lifecycles.
• Execute on all the devices Roblox supports - from desktop clients to mobile phone clients to console clients.

Additional Considerations:

• Familiarity with game engines or other large-scale simulations is beneficial.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and follow-through.
• Ability to build systems that work and keep on working optimally.
• Detailed in handling potential failure cases, and diligent in automated testing.
• Willingness to learn, and stay up-to-date on technology developments.

For roles that are based at our headquarters in San Mateo, CA: The starting base pay for this position is as shown below. The actual base pay is dependent upon a variety of job-related factors such as professional background, training, work experience, location, business needs and market demand. Therefore, in some circumstances, the actual salary could fall outside of this expected range. This pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. All full-time employees are also eligible for equity compensation and for benefits.

Annual Salary Range:

$289,460 — $338,270 USD

Roles that are based in our San Mateo, CA Headquarters are in-office Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with optional in-office on Monday and Friday (unless otherwise noted).

You’ll Love:

• Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage
• A rewarding 401k program
• Flexible vacation policy (varies by exemption status)
• Roflex - Flexible and supportive work policy
• At Roblox HQ:
• Free catered lunches five times a week and several fully stocked kitchens with unlimited snacks
• Onsite fitness center and fitness program credit
• Annual CalTrain Go Pass

Roblox provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Roblox also provides reasonable accommodations for all candidates during the interview process.