Senior Gameplay Programmer - AI & Pathfinding

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Profit sharing potential

Team-building activities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer in Mahikeng, North West to design, implement, and optimize AI and pathfinding for diverse projects. You will create believable NPCs and ensure smooth, efficient movement in complex environments, using C++ and game engines.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in gameplay programming with AI/pathfinding, strong OO design, and experience with Unreal Engine or Unity AI tools. Join a dynamic studio in the Arts & Entertainment sector.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of gameplay programming with a focus on AI and pathfinding in the arts & entertainment industry.
• Strong C++ object-oriented design skills and practical game engine experience.
• Experience with Unreal Engine or Unity AI/navigation toolsets.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems including decision-making, behavior trees, and sensory perception for NPCs.
• Develop and refine pathfinding algorithms (A*, NavMesh) for efficient navigation in complex environments.
• Collaborate with designers and engineers to define AI and pathfinding requirements; write clean, documented C++ code.
• Debug and resolve complex AI/pathfinding issues and contribute to gameplay programming architecture.
• Mentor junior programmers and stay current with AI/pathfinding advancements.

Skills

C++ programming

AI algorithms

Pathfinding

Unreal Engine

Unity

Data structures

Debugging tools

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Visual Studio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a studio celebrated for its intelligent AI and dynamic gameplay systems, is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer specializing in AI and Pathfinding to join their core development team in Mahikeng, North West. This critical role involves designing, implementing, and optimizing advanced artificial intelligence behaviors and navigation systems for our diverse range of projects. You will be instrumental in creating believable non-player characters (NPCs) and ensuring smooth, efficient character movement within complex game environments. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in C++ programming, a deep understanding of AI algorithms, and a passion for crafting intelligent and responsive game systems. Join us in Mahikeng to push the boundaries of AI in interactive entertainment and contribute to the future of the Arts & Entertainment industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems, including decision-making, behavior trees, and sensory perception for NPCs.
• Develop and refine pathfinding algorithms (e.g., A*, NavMesh) for efficient and intelligent character navigation in complex environments.
• Collaborate with game designers and other engineers to define AI and pathfinding requirements.
• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented C++ code.
• Debug and resolve complex AI and pathfinding-related issues.
• Contribute to the overall gameplay programming architecture and strategy.
• Mentor junior programmers and provide technical guidance.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in game AI and pathfinding techniques.
• Profile and optimize AI and pathfinding systems for performance on target platforms.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in gameplay programming, with a strong specialization in AI and pathfinding systems within the Arts & Entertainment industry.
• Expert proficiency in C++ programming and object-oriented design.
• In-depth knowledge of AI algorithms (e.g., finite state machines, behavior trees, goal-oriented action planning) and pathfinding algorithms.
• Experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity, and their AI/navigation toolsets.
• Strong understanding of data structures and algorithms.
• Experience with debugging and profiling tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package, commensurate with your expertise and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, including workshops, conferences, and advanced training.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment in Mahikeng, North West.
• Access to cutting-edge development tools and resources.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for profit sharing.
• Regular team-building activities and a positive workplace culture.