Senior Game Programmer - Unreal Engine Specialist

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Performance-based bonuses

Fully remote work

Polokwane-based studio

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Game Programmer for a fully remote role with a Polokwane-based studio. You will design and implement core gameplay systems in C++/Unreal Engine, mentor junior programmers, and collaborate with designers and artists to deliver high-quality games.

You will optimize performance across platforms, stay current with Unreal Engine features, and contribute to a collaborative, remote-first development culture. A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience is required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of professional game development experience with at least 4 years on Unreal Engine.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Game Development, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and OO programming; deep understanding of Unreal Engine and Blueprint.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robust game systems using C++ and Unreal Engine.
• Collaborate with designers to translate gameplay concepts into functional mechanics.
• Optimize game performance for multiple target platforms and ensure smooth frame rates.
• Write clean, well-documented, and maintainable code.
• Identify and resolve complex technical issues and bugs.
• Mentor junior programmers and participate in code reviews.
• Integrate assets with artists and animators to maintain visual fidelity.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and stay current with Unreal Engine features.
• Foster a positive, collaborative remote team culture.

Skills

C++

Object oriented programming

Performance profiling

Debugging

Remote collaboration

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Game Development or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine

Blueprint visual scripting

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an award-winning independent game studio located near Polokwane, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Game Programmer with a strong specialization in Unreal Engine. This fully remote position offers an incredible opportunity to work on ambitious new game titles and contribute to all aspects of game development. You will play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and optimizing core gameplay systems, ensuring a seamless and engaging player experience. This role demands a deep understanding of C++ and Unreal Engine, combined with a passion for creating innovative and high-quality games. You will collaborate closely with designers, artists, and other programmers to bring our creative vision to life. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver who thrives in a collaborative, remote-first environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robust and efficient game systems using C++ and Unreal Engine.
• Collaborate with designers to translate gameplay concepts into functional mechanics.
• Optimize game performance for various target platforms, ensuring smooth frame rates and efficient memory usage.
• Write clean, well-documented, and maintainable code.
• Identify and resolve complex technical issues and bugs.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to code reviews.
• Work closely with artists and animators to integrate assets and ensure visual fidelity.
• Participate in technical design discussions and contribute to architectural decisions.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in game development technologies and Unreal Engine features.
• Contribute to a positive and collaborative team culture in a remote setting.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of professional game development experience, with at least 4 years focused on Unreal Engine.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and object-oriented programming principles.
• Extensive experience with the Unreal Engine framework, including Blueprint visual scripting.
• Proven experience in developing core gameplay systems (e.g., character controllers, AI, combat systems, UI).
• Solid understanding of game development pipelines and best practices.
• Experience with performance profiling and optimization techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with experience in remote collaboration.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Game Development, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Passion for playing and creating video games.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and performance-based bonuses.
• As a fully remote position, you will enjoy the flexibility and autonomy to work from anywhere, with full support from our Polokwane-based studio.
• You will have the opportunity to work on exciting, high-profile game projects and contribute to innovative gameplay mechanics.
• We foster a culture of continuous learning and provide opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Join our talented and passionate team and help us create unforgettable gaming experiences.