Senior Gameplay Programmer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Generous PTO

Training & conferences

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Gameplay Programmer to design and implement core gameplay systems in a dynamic game studio. You will collaborate with designers, artists, and engineers to bring ambitious titles to life, delivering engaging player experiences across platforms.

The role emphasizes strong C++ skills, engine experience (Unreal or Unity), and a proven track record with shipped titles.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional game development with a focus on gameplay programming.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design.
• Experience with major game engines (Unreal Engine or Unity).
• Proven ability to design and implement complex gameplay mechanics (player control, AI, combat, physics).
• Portfolio or shipped titles demonstrating gameplay programming expertise.
• Experience with version control systems (Git or Perforce).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robust gameplay systems using C++.
• Collaborate with designers to translate concepts into functional features.
• Work with artists/animators to integrate movements, abilities, and interactions.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance, stability, and scalability across platforms.
• Debug and resolve complex technical issues within gameplay systems.
• Mentor junior programmers with technical guidance and code reviews.
• Participate in technical design discussions and contribute to architecture decisions.
• Write clear, maintainable, well-documented code.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest game development technologies.

Skills

C++ programming

Gameplay systems design

Unreal/Unity experience

Debugging

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Git/Perforce

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and forward-thinking game development studio in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is actively seeking a talented Senior Gameplay Programmer to join their passionate team. This is a pivotal role where you will design, implement, and refine core gameplay mechanics for ambitious new titles. You'll collaborate closely with designers, artists, and other engineers to bring exciting interactive experiences to life. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in C++ programming, a deep understanding of game development principles, and a proven track record of delivering high-quality, engaging gameplay systems. Working within our client's creative environment means contributing to projects that challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what's possible in gaming. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the player experience in a beautiful coastal setting, contributing your expertise to impactful projects in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robust and engaging gameplay systems using C++.
• Collaborate with game designers to translate gameplay concepts into functional features.
• Work closely with artists and animators to integrate character movements, abilities, and interactions.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance, stability, and scalability across target platforms.
• Debug and resolve complex technical issues within gameplay systems.
• Mentor junior programmers, providing technical guidance and code reviews.
• Participate in technical design discussions and contribute to architectural decisions.
• Write clear, maintainable, and well-documented code.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in game development technologies and techniques.
• Contribute to the overall quality and fun factor of the game.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game development, with a focus on gameplay programming.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design principles.
• Experience with a major game engine, such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Proven ability to design and implement complex gameplay mechanics (e.g., player control, AI, combat systems, physics interactions).
• Excellent understanding of game development cycles and methodologies.
• Strong debugging and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• A portfolio or examples of shipped titles demonstrating gameplay programming expertise.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce).

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employees receive generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• The company invests in employee growth through regular training, workshops, and opportunities to attend industry conferences.
• A collaborative and creative work environment is fostered, with regular team events and a focus on work-life balance.
• This role offers a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of in-office and remote work, and is based in scenic Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.