Lead Game Programmer (Console)

Placements24; Vereeniging; Híbrido; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Tempo integral

Vantagens oferecidas por esta oferta de emprego

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Resumo da oferta

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Game Programmer in Vereeniging, Gauteng, to drive the technical vision for console titles. You will lead a team of developers, mentor juniors, and collaborate with design and art to ship engaging experiences on major consoles.

The role requires strong C++ skills, deep engine experience (Unreal/Unity), and a passion for high-performance, optimized gameplay. Hybrid in-office collaboration at the Vereeniging studio is offered.

Qualificações

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
• 8+ years in game programming, 3+ in lead/senior roles.
• Proven console development experience (PS/Xbox).
• Strong C++ proficiency and OO design.
• Experience with Unreal Engine or Unity and engine tooling.
• Graphics, physics, ai, gameplay systems know-how.
• Excellent debugging and leadership abilities.
• Portfolio showing shipped console titles is highly desirable.

Responsabilidades

• Design, implement, and optimize core game systems for consoles.
• Mentor and lead a team of programmers.
• Collaborate with designers and artists to deliver gameplay features.
• Write clean, performant C++ code following best practices.
• Optimize performance for target hardware and resolve bottlenecks.
• Debug complex issues across the development lifecycle.
• Contribute to technical architecture and project planning.
• Stay updated on the latest game dev tech and consoles.

Conhecimentos

C++ programming

Game engine experience

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Formação académica

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering

Ferramentas

Git

Perforce

Unreal Engine

Unity

Descrição da oferta de emprego

About the Role

A progressive game development studio located in Vereeniging, Gauteng, is seeking an experienced Lead Game Programmer specializing in console development. This leadership position is responsible for driving the technical vision and implementation of core game systems, ensuring high-quality performance and engaging gameplay on major console platforms. The ideal candidate will have a strong command of C++ and extensive experience with game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity. You will lead a team of talented programmers, mentor junior developers, and collaborate closely with design and art teams to bring groundbreaking games to life. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact on next-generation titles developed in Vereeniging.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of core game systems (e.g., physics, AI, rendering, gameplay mechanics) for console platforms.
• Mentor and guide a team of game programmers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Collaborate with designers and artists to translate game concepts into functional and engaging gameplay features.
• Write clean, efficient, and maintainable C++ code, adhering to best practices.
• Optimize game performance for target console hardware, identifying and resolving bottlenecks.
• Debug and resolve complex technical issues throughout the development lifecycle.
• Contribute to technical architecture decisions and long-term project planning.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in game development technology and console hardware.
• Participate in code reviews and contribute to the continuous improvement of development processes.
• Ensure seamless integration of game logic with engine features and third-party SDKs relevant to Vereeniging's gaming scene.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in game programming, with at least 3 years in a lead or senior role.
• Proven experience developing for major console platforms (PlayStation, Xbox).
• Expert proficiency in C++ and experience with object-oriented design principles.
• Strong experience with Unreal Engine or Unity, including custom engine development or deep feature implementation.
• Solid understanding of graphics programming, physics engines, AI algorithms, and gameplay systems.
• Excellent debugging and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team-building abilities.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce).
• A portfolio or demonstrable examples of shipped console titles is highly desirable, reflecting work done within Gauteng or similar tech hubs.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits including health insurance and a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional growth.

This role features a hybrid work model, blending the flexibility of remote work with essential in-office collaboration at our Vereeniging studio. You'll join a passionate and talented team working on exciting, high-profile projects within the Gauteng gaming industry. Be part of creating the next generation of console entertainment.