Senior AI Programmer - Gameplay and Behavior

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, seeks a Senior AI Programmer to design and implement robust AI for game characters and systems. The role emphasizes C++ proficiency, AI algorithm expertise, and a track record in AAA game projects.

You will collaborate with designers and engineers, develop reusable AI modules, and stay current with AI techniques and industry trends. This position offers ambitious projects and significant technical influence.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience in game programming with AI specialization.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and OO programming.
• Experience implementing AI for AAA games.
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine or Unity.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems for characters (pathfinding, decision-making, combat, group behavior).
• Collaborate with designers/engineers to define AI requirements and integration.
• Develop reusable AI modules and frameworks.
• Implement behavior trees, state machines, utility systems, and ML where appropriate.
• Profile and optimize AI for performance on target platforms.
• Debug and resolve complex AI issues.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to technical growth.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge game development studio known for its innovative gameplay, is seeking a highly skilled Senior AI Programmer to join their talented team in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is integral to designing and implementing intelligent, believable AI behaviors for characters and systems within their games. You will be responsible for creating robust AI systems that enhance player engagement and create dynamic challenges. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of AI algorithms, C++ programming, and experience in implementing AI for complex game environments. This is an exceptional opportunity to work on ambitious projects, influence core gameplay, and contribute to the technical excellence of a leading studio.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems for characters, including pathfinding, decision-making, combat AI, and group behaviors.
• Collaborate with game designers and other engineers to define AI requirements and integrate AI features into the game.
• Develop and maintain reusable AI modules and frameworks.
• Implement advanced AI techniques such as behavior trees, finite state machines, utility systems, and machine learning where appropriate.
• Profile and optimize AI systems for performance, ensuring they run efficiently on target platforms.
• Debug and resolve complex AI-related issues.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to the team's technical growth.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in game AI research and technology.
• Contribute to the overall technical direction and architecture of the game engine.
• Participate in code reviews and uphold high standards of code quality.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game programming, with a specialization in AI.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and object-oriented programming principles.
• Proven experience implementing AI systems for AAA games.
• Deep understanding of AI algorithms and techniques relevant to game development (e.g., pathfinding, decision trees, state machines, navigation meshes).
• Experience with AI middleware or frameworks is a plus.
• Familiarity with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and optimization skills.
• Strong mathematical background, particularly in areas relevant to AI.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of complex tasks.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary of ZAR.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-sponsored retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional growth, including attending industry conferences.
• Work on innovative and challenging game projects.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Performance-based bonuses and recognition programs.
• Generous paid vacation and personal leave.
• Relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
• Regular team outings and social events.