Senior Gameplay Programmer - AI Specialist

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Performance-based bonus

Flexible working hours

Remote-friendly environment

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence to join a remote-first game studio. You will design and implement AI systems for NPCs, focusing on perception, decision-making, pathfinding, and combat behaviors, using C++ and modern AI architectures.

You will collaborate with designers and engineers, mentor juniors, and optimize AI performance across platforms.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of game programming with a strong focus on AI.
• Proficient in C++ and OO design; experience in Unreal or Unity.
• Portfolio with AI work in shipped titles preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems for NPCs, including perception, decision-making, pathfinding, and combat behaviors.
• Develop and maintain behavior trees, state machines, and other AI architectures.
• Collaborate with designers to translate gameplay requirements into AI implementations.
• Write clean, efficient C++ code for AI systems.
• Profile and optimize AI code for performance across target platforms.
• Work with engine programmers to integrate AI into the game engine.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to the team's technical growth.

Skills

C++

AI development

Pathfinding (A*)

Behavior trees

Finite state machines

Unreal Engine

Unity

OOP design

Performance optimization

Remote collaboration

Education

BSc in Computer Science / AI

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Git

Visual Studio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge game development studio renowned for its innovative AI implementations and immersive gameplay systems, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Gameplay Programmer with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence to join their dynamic, remote-first team. This role is critical in designing, developing, and refining the intelligent behaviors of non-player characters (NPCs) and other game systems that create truly dynamic and engaging player experiences. You will leverage your expertise in AI algorithms, pathfinding, decision-making, and behavior trees to craft sophisticated and believable in-game entities. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of C++ and game engine architecture, coupled with a passion for pushing the boundaries of AI in interactive entertainment. You will collaborate closely with designers, artists, and other programmers to implement cutting-edge AI solutions that elevate the gameplay to new heights. This is a prime opportunity to make a significant impact on a flagship project and contribute to the forefront of AI-driven game development from anywhere.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize AI systems for NPCs, including perception, decision-making, pathfinding, and combat behaviors.
• Develop and maintain robust behavior trees, state machines, and other AI architectures.
• Collaborate with game designers to translate gameplay requirements into effective AI implementations.
• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented C++ code for AI systems.
• Profile and optimize AI code for performance, ensuring scalability and responsiveness across target platforms.
• Work closely with engine programmers to integrate AI systems effectively into the game engine.
• Research and implement new AI techniques and algorithms to enhance gameplay.
• Debug and troubleshoot complex AI issues, identifying root causes and implementing solutions.
• Contribute to the overall game design and technical direction through AI expertise.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to the team's technical growth.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in game programming, with a significant focus on AI development.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and experience with object-oriented design principles.
• Demonstrated experience implementing various AI techniques such as pathfinding (A*), behavior trees, finite state machines, and flocking.
• Experience with game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and performance optimization.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to debugging.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• A portfolio showcasing AI work in shipped titles or significant personal projects is highly desirable.
• Passion for creating intelligent and responsive game experiences.

Benefits

• This remote position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, and a performance-based bonus structure.
• Employees receive generous paid time off, flexible working hours, and the autonomy to work from their preferred location.
• Professional development opportunities, including online courses and virtual conferences, are supported.
• The company culture is collaborative, innovative, and focused on creating groundbreaking game experiences.
• We are dedicated to fostering a healthy work-life balance and supporting our team's well-being.