Senior Gameplay Programmer

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a cutting-edge Arts & Entertainment studio, seeks a Senior Gameplay Programmer for Paarl, Western Cape. You will design, implement, and optimize core gameplay systems in C++, collaborating with designers, artists, and other programmers to deliver engaging experiences.

This hybrid role combines in-office collaboration in Paarl with remote work days. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in game development, strong C++ skills, and a passion for creating fun, high-performance

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in game development, with a focus on gameplay programming.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design principles.
• Experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Solid understanding of 3D math, physics, and animation systems.
• Experience with performance profiling and optimization techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities, with experience working in a team environment.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce).
• A portfolio or demo reel showcasing gameplay programming work is highly recommended.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement gameplay systems using C++.
• Collaborate with designers to translate gameplay concepts into mechanics.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance and memory.
• Integrate character controls, abilities, and animations with artists.
• Debug and resolve gameplay issues.
• Participate in code reviews and provide feedback to peers.
• Contribute to overall game design and architecture of the game.
• Mentor junior programmers and share knowledge.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in game development technology and techniques.
• Ensure code quality, maintainability, and coding standards.

Skills

C++ proficiency

Unreal Engine / Unity

3D math

Performance optimization

Debugging

Team collaboration

Git / Perforce

Portfolio/Demo reel

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Software Eng

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Git

Perforce

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge studio in the Arts & Entertainment sector, is seeking a talented Senior Gameplay Programmer to join their collaborative team in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is instrumental in bringing innovative gameplay mechanics to life and ensuring a seamless, engaging player experience. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing core gameplay systems, working closely with designers, artists, and other programmers. The ideal candidate possesses a strong C++ proficiency, a deep understanding of game development principles, and a passion for creating fun and compelling interactive experiences. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver who can contribute to all phases of the development cycle. This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds, combining focused in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. Join our team and contribute to the creation of next-generation entertainment products.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain robust and efficient gameplay systems and features using C++.
• Collaborate with game designers to translate gameplay concepts into functional mechanics.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance and memory usage across target platforms.
• Work closely with artists and animators to integrate character controls, abilities, and animations.
• Debug and resolve complex gameplay-related issues.
• Participate in code reviews, providing constructive feedback to peers.
• Contribute to the overall technical design and architecture of the game.
• Mentor junior programmers and share knowledge across the team.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in game development technology and techniques.
• Ensure code quality, maintainability, and adherence to coding standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in game development, with a focus on gameplay programming.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design principles.
• Experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Solid understanding of 3D math, physics, and animation systems.
• Experience with performance profiling and optimization techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities, with experience working in a team environment.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce).
• A portfolio or demo reel showcasing gameplay programming work is highly recommended.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• This hybrid role provides flexibility with days spent working in our modern office in Paarl, Western Cape , and days working remotely.
• Employees have access to professional development opportunities, including training and conference attendance.
• We foster a creative and collaborative work environment within the vibrant Arts & Entertainment sector.
• Benefits also include generous paid time off and a retirement savings plan.
• Join our dedicated team and help shape the future of interactive entertainment.