Senior Gameplay Programmer - AI & Pathfinding

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 66,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work in Randburg

Learning opportunities

Medical & retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer focused on AI and pathfinding for a Randburg-based studio. You will design, implement, and optimize sophisticated AI behaviors and robust pathfinding systems, collaborating with designers and engineers to deliver engaging experiences.

The role requires 5+ years in gameplay programming, strong C++ skills, and hands-on experience with major engines like Unreal or Unity. Hybrid work options and a modern development environment are provided.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of gameplay programming experience focusing on AI and pathfinding.
• Expert in C++ with Unreal or Unity experience.
• Strong understanding of AI concepts, data structures, and mathematics.
• Proven experience implementing and optimizing pathfinding solutions (A*, NavMesh).
• Bachelor’s degree in CS, Engineering, or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems (behavior trees, state machines, GOAP).
• Develop and refine advanced pathfinding algorithms for complex environments.
• Collaborate with designers to translate gameplay requirements into AI behaviors.
• Integrate AI and pathfinding into the game engine for performance and scalability.
• Profile and debug AI/pathfinding code to resolve bottlenecks and errors.
• Contribute to architecture for robustness and maintainability.
• Mentor junior programmers and participate in code reviews and learning.

Skills

C++

Unreal Engine

Unity

AI concepts

Pathfinding

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering

Tools

NavMesh

Behavior Trees

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a studio renowned for its innovative gameplay mechanics and intelligent AI systems, is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer specializing in AI and Pathfinding for their Randburg, Gauteng office. This role is crucial for developing sophisticated character behaviors, emergent AI, and seamless navigation systems that bring our game worlds to life. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing complex AI algorithms, including decision-making, perception, and flocking behaviors, as well as robust pathfinding solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of AI principles, data structures, and algorithms, combined with strong C++ programming skills and experience with game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity. You will work closely with designers and other programmers to ensure AI systems are engaging, performant, and contribute significantly to the overall player experience. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to push the boundaries of intelligent systems in interactive entertainment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems, including behavior trees, state machines, goal-oriented action planning (GOAP), and utility AI.
• Develop and refine advanced pathfinding algorithms (e.g., A*, navigation meshes) for complex environments.
• Collaborate with game designers to translate gameplay requirements into functional AI behaviors.
• Integrate AI and pathfinding systems into the game engine, ensuring smooth performance and scalability.
• Profile and debug AI and pathfinding code to identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and logic errors.
• Contribute to the overall architecture of game systems, ensuring robustness and maintainability.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to code reviews, maintaining high standards of code quality.
• Research and implement cutting-edge AI techniques relevant to game development.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in gameplay programming, with a strong focus on AI and/or pathfinding systems.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and experience with game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Strong understanding of AI concepts, algorithms, data structures (e.g., graphs, trees), and mathematics.
• Proven experience implementing and optimizing pathfinding solutions (e.g., A*, NavMesh).
• Experience with AI middleware or frameworks is a plus.
• Solid understanding of software design patterns and principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, and retirement savings options.
• This hybrid role provides the flexibility to work remotely part of the week and collaborate in person at our modern office in Randburg, Gauteng.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for continuous learning, including access to workshops, training programs, and industry conferences.
• We foster a collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions are recognized and valued.
• Join a dedicated team focused on creating cutting-edge gameplay experiences and contribute to the success of exciting new projects.