Remote Senior Game Programmer (Gameplay Systems)

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary and benefits

Comprehensive health insurance

Generous paid time off

Performance bonuses

Flexible remote work environment

Access to latest development tools

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Game Programmer to join a remote-first, globally distributed team focused on next-gen gameplay experiences. You will design and implement core gameplay systems using C++, collaborating with designers to turn concepts into engaging mechanics.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in game programming, deep knowledge of Unreal or Unity, and a strong grasp of debugging and performance optimization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS or related field.
• 5+ years of professional game programming focusing on gameplay systems.
• Expertise in C++ and OO design principles.
• Experience with engines like Unreal or Unity.
• Strong debugging and performance analysis skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for remote work.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize robust gameplay systems using C++.
• Collaborate with game designers to translate concepts into gameplay mechanics.
• Develop and maintain core systems such as character controllers, AI, combat, and progression.
• Write clean, documented code following coding standards.
• Profile and optimize game code for performance across platforms.
• Work effectively in a remote team using Git and collaboration tools.
• Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Debug and resolve complex issues during development and testing.
• Contribute to technical design discussions and architectural decisions.

Skills

C++ programming

OO design

Remote collaboration

Debugging

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading independent game development studio recognized for its innovative titles, is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Senior Game Programmer to join their globally distributed, remote-first team. This role is specifically focused on designing, implementing, and iterating on core gameplay systems that form the heart of their exciting new projects. You will work from the comfort of your own home, collaborating virtually with a talented team of designers, artists, and other engineers. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in C++ programming for games, a deep understanding of gameplay mechanics, and a passion for creating engaging player experiences. You will play a key role in shaping the future of their game development, contributing significantly to game design and technical architecture. This is an unparalleled opportunity to leverage your expertise in a fully remote capacity, working on ambitious titles with a company that values creativity and technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize robust and scalable gameplay systems using C++.


• Collaborate closely with game designers to translate gameplay concepts into functional and enjoyable mechanics.


• Develop and maintain core game systems such as character controllers, AI behaviors, combat systems, and progression mechanics.


• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code, adhering to established coding standards and best practices.


• Profile and optimize game code for performance across various target platforms.


• Work effectively within a remote team environment, utilizing version control systems (e.g., Git) and communication tools.


• Participate in code reviews, providing constructive feedback to peers and receiving input on your own work.


• Debug and resolve complex technical issues identified during development and testing.


• Contribute to technical design discussions and help drive architectural decisions for gameplay features.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.


• Minimum of 5 years of professional game programming experience, with a significant focus on gameplay systems.


• Expertise in C++ programming and a strong understanding of object-oriented design principles.


• Experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.


• Demonstrated ability to develop complex gameplay mechanics from concept to completion.


• Proficiency in debugging and performance analysis tools.


• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.


• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to thrive in a remote work setting.


• Passion for video games and a deep understanding of player experience.

Benefits

As a remote Senior Game Programmer, you will receive the following benefits:

• Highly competitive salary and benefits package for a fully remote workforce.


• Comprehensive health insurance.


• Generous paid time off.


• Potential performance bonuses.


• Flexible and supportive remote work environment, allowing you to work from anywhere.


• Access to the latest development tools and technologies.


• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

Join a company that values innovation, creativity, and work-life balance, contributing to exciting game projects from your own home, regardless of your specific location within South Africa or globally. This is a truly remote-first opportunity.