Lead Game Programmer (Gameplay Focus)

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Stock options

Health insurance

Flexible hours

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24, a game development studio, seeks an experienced Lead Game Programmer (Gameplay Focus) to define and implement core gameplay mechanics. You will lead a team of programmers, mentor juniors, and ensure scalable, high-performance code across engines like Unreal and Unity.

You will drive technical decisions, collaborate with designers and artists, and shape the future of ambitious projects while benefiting from remote work flexibility and a collaborative studio culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum 8 years in game programming with 3+ in lead/senior roles.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and engine experience (Unreal/Unity).
• Strong understanding of gameplay systems: AI, physics, input, game state management.
• Proven ability to design scalable, robust gameplay architectures.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of gameplay programmers.
• Design, implement, and optimize core gameplay systems and mechanics.
• Architect scalable, maintainable codebases across engines.
• Collaborate with designers, artists, and engineers to realize gameplay vision.
• Drive technical decisions and best practices within the team.
• Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and technical challenges.
• Contribute to planning and estimation of programming tasks.
• Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Stay current with game development tech and C++ trends.
• Ensure quality and stability of core gameplay systems.

Skills

Leadership

C++ expertise

Gameplay programming

Problem solving

Communication

Debugging

Team mentorship

Software architecture

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Git

Perforce

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected and innovative game development studio known for creating deeply immersive and critically acclaimed titles, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Game Programmer (Gameplay Focus). This role is integral to defining and implementing the core gameplay mechanics that drive player engagement and experience. You will lead a team of talented programmers, mentor junior developers, and architect robust, scalable, and performant gameplay systems. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional C++ programming skills, a profound understanding of game design principles, and a proven ability to manage technical projects from conception to completion. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of interactive entertainment and work on exciting, ambitious projects within a collaborative and forward-thinking studio culture, with remote work flexibility. We are looking for a technical leader who can inspire their team, solve complex problems, and deliver outstanding gameplay experiences. Your expertise will be crucial in bringing our creative visions to life.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of gameplay programmers.
• Design, implement, and optimize core gameplay systems and mechanics.
• Architect and develop scalable and maintainable codebases.
• Collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and other engineers to ensure gameplay vision is realized.
• Drive technical decisions and best practices within the programming team.
• Identify and address performance bottlenecks and technical challenges.
• Contribute to the planning and estimation of programming tasks.
• Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in game development technology and C++ programming.
• Ensure the technical quality and stability of the game's core systems.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in game programming, with at least 3 years in a lead or senior role, and a strong portfolio of shipped titles.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and experience with game development engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Deep understanding of gameplay programming principles, including AI, physics, input, and game state management.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing complex gameplay systems.
• Strong software architecture and design patterns knowledge.
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce).
• Ability to work effectively in a remote team environment and manage distributed projects.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, performance bonuses, and stock options.
• This role offers significant remote work flexibility, allowing you to contribute from anywhere.
• You will be part of a passionate and talented team working on cutting-edge game projects.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Flexible working hours and a focus on work-life balance.
• Collaborative and inclusive studio culture.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Access to state-of-the‑art development tools and technologies.
• A chance to significantly influence the gameplay of future titles.