Senior Game Programmer - Engine Systems

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Híbrido; ZAR 900.000 - 1.300.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive health benefits

Generous paid time off

Relocation assistance

Career growth opportunities

Cutting-edge tools

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Game Programmer specializing in Engine Systems to join our Paarl, Western Cape studio. You will design, implement, and optimize core engine technologies powering immersive games, collaborating with artists and designers on advanced features.

The role requires strong C++ expertise, experience with major engines (Unreal/Unity) or a built-from-scratch engine, and a deep understanding of graphics, physics, and multithreading.

Formación

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in game programming, with a strong focus on engine systems development.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and experience with modern C++ (C++11/14/17).
• Experience with at least one major game engine (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity) or building a custom engine from scratch.
• Strong understanding of graphics APIs (DirectX, Vulkan, Metal) and rendering techniques.
• Experience with physics engines, AI programming, and multithreaded programming.
• Excellent debugging and problem-solving skills.
• Strong understanding of software design patterns and architectural principles.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• A passion for creating high-quality, technically sophisticated video games.
• Experience with profiling tools and performance optimization techniques.

Responsabilidades

• Design, develop, and implement core engine systems such as graphics rendering, physics, AI, memory management, and core gameplay logic.
• Optimize engine performance for various target platforms, ensuring smooth frame rates and efficient resource utilization.
• Collaborate closely with other programmers, artists, and designers to define and implement technical features.
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code adhering to established coding standards.
• Debug and resolve complex technical issues within the game engine and gameplay systems.
• Contribute to the evaluation and integration of new engine technologies and third-party tools.
• Mentor junior programmers, providing technical guidance and code reviews.
• Participate in architectural discussions and contribute to the overall technical direction of the engine.
• Stay current with advancements in game development technology and best practices.
• Ensure the stability and reliability of engine systems throughout the development cycle.

Conocimientos

C++

Engine systems

Multithreading

Graphics APIs

Profiling & optimization

Software design patterns

Communication & teamwork

Educación

Bachelor's in CS/Software Engineering or related

Herramientas

Unreal Engine

Unity

Custom engine

DirectX

Vulkan

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative studio renowned for developing immersive and technically advanced gaming experiences, is seeking a Senior Game Programmer specializing in Engine Systems to join their talented team in Paarl, Western Cape . This critical role involves the design, implementation, and optimization of core engine technologies that power our cutting-edge titles. You will be instrumental in building robust, efficient, and scalable systems, including graphics, physics, AI, and core gameplay frameworks. We are looking for a highly skilled and passionate programmer with a deep understanding of C++ and engine architecture, who thrives on solving complex technical challenges and contributing to the creation of groundbreaking games. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on visually stunning projects and work alongside a team of dedicated industry veterans.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement core engine systems such as graphics rendering, physics, AI, memory management, and core gameplay logic.
• Optimize engine performance for various target platforms, ensuring smooth frame rates and efficient resource utilization.
• Collaborate closely with other programmers, artists, and designers to define and implement technical features.
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code adhering to established coding standards.
• Debug and resolve complex technical issues within the game engine and gameplay systems.
• Contribute to the evaluation and integration of new engine technologies and third-party tools.
• Mentor junior programmers, providing technical guidance and code reviews.
• Participate in architectural discussions and contribute to the overall technical direction of the engine.
• Stay current with advancements in game development technology and best practices.
• Ensure the stability and reliability of engine systems throughout the development cycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in game programming, with a strong focus on engine systems development.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and experience with modern C++ (C++11/14/17).
• Experience with at least one major game engine (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity) or building a custom engine from scratch.
• Strong understanding of graphics APIs (DirectX, Vulkan, Metal) and rendering techniques.
• Experience with physics engines, AI programming, and multithreaded programming.
• Excellent debugging and problem-solving skills.
• Strong understanding of software design patterns and architectural principles.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• A passion for creating high-quality, technically sophisticated video games.
• Experience with profiling tools and performance optimization techniques.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunity to work on ambitious and visually stunning game titles.
• Access to cutting-edge development tools and technologies in our Paarl, Western Cape studio.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• A collaborative, creative, and supportive work environment.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Regular team-building events.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.