Lead Gameplay Programmer (Action RPG)

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,976,000 - 2,964,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonuses

Health/Dental/Vision insurance

Equity/Stock options

Flexible remote work schedule

Professional development & conferences

Latest dev tools and tech

Collaborative remote team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Gameplay Programmer for a remote role on an ambitious new Action RPG title. You will design, implement, and optimize core gameplay systems, lead a team of programmers, and collaborate with designers, artists, and engineers to translate creative vision into solid, performant code.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in game development, expert C++, strong OO design, and hands-on experience with Unreal Engine or Unity, plus proven leadership and

Qualifications

• 10+ years in game development, with leadership or senior gameplay programming experience.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design.
• Proven track record developing core gameplay systems for Action RPGs or similar genres.
• Experience with Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Strong communication and collaboration, especially in a remote team.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, implementation, and optimization of core gameplay systems (combat, AI, player abilities).
• Mentor a team of gameplay programmers and guide technical growth.
• Collaborate with designers to refine mechanics and realize gameplay vision.
• Write clean, efficient C++ code and ensure high-quality standards.
• Develop robust AI behaviors and refine player control and movement systems.
• Work with engine team to integrate and optimize gameplay systems.
• Identify and resolve complex technical challenges and performance bottlenecks.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technical design for new features.
• Participate in code reviews and promote best practices.

Skills

C++

Unreal Engine

Lead team

Gameplay systems

Remote collaboration

Design principles

Git/Perforce

Tools

Git

Perforce

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned independent game studio, is seeking a highly experienced and passionate Lead Gameplay Programmer to spearhead the development of core gameplay mechanics for an ambitious new Action RPG title. This role is fully remote, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing to a groundbreaking project. You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and optimizing complex gameplay systems, ensuring a fluid, engaging, and responsive player experience. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of game design principles, exceptional C++ programming skills, and a proven ability to lead and mentor a team of talented programmers. You will work closely with designers, artists, and other engineers to translate creative visions into robust, performant code. This is a fantastic opportunity to leave your mark on a high-profile project and shape the future of interactive entertainment from the comfort of your own home. The success of this role hinges on strong technical leadership, creative problem‑solving, and a collaborative spirit within a remote-first environment. You will be responsible for setting the technical direction for gameplay systems and ensuring their successful implementation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of core gameplay systems (combat, AI, player abilities, etc.).
• Mentor and guide a team of gameplay programmers, fostering their technical and professional growth.
• Collaborate closely with game designers to refine mechanics and ensure gameplay vision is realized.
• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented C++ code adhering to high-quality standards.
• Develop and maintain robust AI behaviors for NPCs and enemies.
• Implement and refine player control schemes and character movement systems.
• Work with the engine team to integrate and optimize gameplay systems.
• Identify and resolve complex technical challenges and performance bottlenecks.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technical design for new features.
• Participate in code reviews and promote best practices within the programming team.

Requirements

• 10+ years of professional experience in game development, with at least 5 years in a lead or senior gameplay programming role.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and experience with object-oriented design principles.
• Proven experience developing core gameplay systems for Action RPGs or similar genres.
• Strong understanding of game design principles and player experience.
• Experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Experience leading and mentoring engineering teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and optimization skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities, vital for a remote role.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce).
• A passion for creating immersive and engaging gameplay experiences.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous stock options and equity.
• Flexible remote work schedule.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry conferences.
• Access to the latest development tools and technologies.
• A collaborative and supportive remote team environment.
• Contribute to a passion project with significant creative freedom.
• Be part of a studio known for innovation and quality.