Senior Gameplay AI Engineer – Lead NPC AI & Systems

Sky Dance; California (MO); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Skydance is seeking a Senior Gameplay AI Engineer to design, implement, and own core AI systems for NPCs. You will partner with Design, Animation, and Audio to deliver responsive, believable characters in a production environment.

The role requires 7+ years in gameplay/AI, deep Unreal Engine experience, and strong collaboration skills. Remote eligibility is available for candidates in eligible states; base salary ranges between $150k and $180k with standard benefits.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional gameplay/AI engineering experience.
• Own large gameplay or AI systems in production.
• Experience with AI simulation systems and features using C++, Blueprints, and other tools.
• Knowledge of common AI frameworks (Behavior Trees, FSMs, Utility AI).
• Collaborate with designers, artists, and audio to iterate AI behaviors.
• Own major systems, maintain schedules, drive tasks.
• Experience with Unreal Engine gameplay AI tools and custom tech.
• Experience with animation-driven AI (Animation Blueprints, Montages, Control Rig).
• Self-motivated, willing to contribute across development areas.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of core gameplay AI systems.
• Drive technical direction for NPC gameplay systems and AI frameworks.
• Own large-scale AI features from concept through ship.
• Identify and resolve performance, scalability, and design challenges.
• Partner with Design, Animation, Audio, and Production to define AI goals.
• Provide technical leadership across cross-functional initiatives.
• Help establish engineering standards and improve AI workflows.

Skills

C++

Unreal Engine

Behavior Trees

FSMs

Animation Blueprints

Montages

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Problem Solving

Tools

Unreal Editor

Job description

Skydance is seeking a Senior Gameplay AI Engineer to design, implement, and own core AI systems for NPCs. You will partner with Design, Animation, and Audio to deliver responsive, believable characters in a production environment.

The role requires 7+ years in gameplay/AI, deep Unreal Engine experience, and strong collaboration skills. Remote eligibility is available for candidates in eligible states; base salary ranges between $150k and $180k with standard benefits.