Senior Gameplay Programmer - AI Specialist

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,996,000 - 2,994,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer with a specialization in AI to join a remote-first game studio. You will design, implement, and refine AI systems for characters, delivering believable behavior, pathfinding, and decision-making that empower immersive worlds.

You will collaborate with designers and artists, optimize AI performance, mentor junior programmers, and research cutting-edge techniques to create emergent gameplay across shipped titles.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in game development with strong AI focus.
• Proven track record of shipped AI systems.
• Expertise in C++ and major game engines.
• Knowledge of pathfinding, behavior trees, utility AI, ML basics.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement AI systems for characters including pathfinding and decision logic.
• Optimize AI algorithms for robust NPC behavior and performance.
• Collaborate with designers and artists to translate gameplay into AI.
• Integrate AI with animation, physics, and networking.
• Mentor junior programmers and participate in code reviews.
• Research cutting-edge AI techniques for emergent gameplay.
• Provide technical insights to game design and AI tooling.

Skills

AI programming

C++

Problem solving

Remote work

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious game development studio known for its immersive worlds and compelling narratives, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Senior Gameplay Programmer with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to join their fully remote team. In this critical role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and refining the AI systems that bring our game worlds to life. You will craft intelligent, believable character behaviors, complex decision‑making processes, and dynamic emergent gameplay. This is a remote‑first position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while collaborating with a world‑class team. We are passionate about creating groundbreaking interactive experiences and are looking for a top‑tier talent to help us achieve that vision. Your expertise in AI will be paramount in delivering unforgettable player experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and iterate on AI systems for characters, including pathfinding, behavior trees, state machines, and decision‑making logic.
• Develop and optimize AI algorithms to ensure robust and performant enemy and NPC behaviors.
• Collaborate closely with designers and artists to translate gameplay requirements into effective AI implementations.
• Integrate AI systems with other game engine systems, such as animation, physics, and networking.
• Identify and address performance bottlenecks within AI code, ensuring efficiency across target platforms.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to code reviews, promoting best practices and maintaining high code quality.
• Research and implement cutting‑edge AI techniques to enhance gameplay and create emergent experiences.
• Contribute to the overall game design process by providing technical insights and creative solutions related to AI.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in game development programming, with a strong focus on AI.
• Proven track record of designing and implementing complex AI systems in shipped titles.
• Expertise in C++ and familiarity with game engine architecture (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Deep understanding of AI concepts such as pathfinding algorithms (A*, navigation meshes), behavior trees, utility AI, and machine learning basics.
• Strong mathematical and algorithmic foundation.
• Excellent problem‑solving and debugging skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a remote setting.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to articulate technical concepts clearly.
• Experience with AI tool development is a plus.

Benefits

This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the intelligence and behavior of characters in groundbreaking games, all from the convenience of your home office. Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, generous vacation time, and a supportive, collaborative remote work environment. You will have access to the latest development tools, opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth, and the chance to make a significant impact on globally recognized gaming franchises.