Lead Gameplay Programmer

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

East London studio environment

Job summary

Placements24 in East London is seeking a Lead Gameplay Programmer to architect and implement core gameplay systems, guiding a team of engineers to deliver polished interactive experiences.

You will mentor others, collaborate with designers and artists, and drive technical excellence, reliability, and performance across projects in a hybrid work setup.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional experience in gameplay programming.
• At least 2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Proficient in C++ with Unreal Engine or Unity.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of gameplay programmers, ensuring high code quality.
• Design, develop, and optimize core gameplay systems and features.
• Collaborate with designers to translate concepts into robust technical implementations.
• Work with artists to integrate controls, physics, and interactive elements.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex programming issues for stability and performance.

Skills

C++

Gameplay systems

Team leadership

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Job description

About the Role

Our client is searching for a highly skilled and motivated Lead Gameplay Programmer to join their dynamic team in East London . This role is critical for architecting and implementing core gameplay systems that define the player experience. You will lead a team of talented programmers, mentor their growth, and collaborate closely with designers and artists to bring innovative gameplay mechanics to life, contributing to a studio culture that values technical excellence, creative problem-solving, and the delivery of cutting-edge interactive entertainment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of gameplay programmers, ensuring high code quality and efficient development.
• Design, develop, and optimize core gameplay systems, mechanics, and features.
• Collaborate with game designers to translate game design concepts into robust technical implementations.
• Work with artists and animators to integrate character controls, physics, and other interactive elements.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex programming issues, ensuring stability and performance.

Requirements

• 7+ years of professional experience in gameplay programming , with at least 2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Deep understanding of game physics, AI, animation systems, and other core gameplay components.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to architect complex systems.
• Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork abilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Hybrid work model designed for flexibility and collaboration.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry events.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• A stimulating and rewarding work environment in East London .