Senior Gameplay Programmer - Core Mechanics

Placements24; Soweto; Híbrido; ZAR 600.000 - 900.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Hybrid work model

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Bonuses

Career growth

Paid time off

Team events

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer in Soweto, Gauteng. You will implement and refine core gameplay mechanics, collaborating with designers and artists to deliver polished, performant game systems.

The role requires 5+ years in gameplay programming, expert C++ skills, and experience with Unreal Engine. You will mentor juniors and contribute to code reviews in a hybrid work setup.

Formación

• 5+ years of professional gameplay programming experience.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design.
• Solid understanding of Unreal Engine/ Unity pipelines.
• Portfolio demonstrating gameplay programming expertise.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field.

Responsabilidades

• Implement, test, and optimize core gameplay mechanics and systems using C++.
• Collaborate with designers to translate requirements into code.
• Integrate character controls, abilities, and interactions with artists.
• Develop and maintain reusable code modules and libraries for gameplay features.
• Profile and optimize gameplay code for performance across platforms.
• Mentor junior programmers and participate in code reviews.
• Stay up-to-date with latest game development practices.

Conocimientos

C++

Gameplay systems

Unreal Engine

Object-oriented design

Profiling & optimization

Team leadership

Communication

Independent work

Educación

BSc in CS/Software Eng

Herramientas

Visual Studio

Git

Perforce

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and ambitious game development studio, is seeking an experienced Senior Gameplay Programmer to contribute to their exciting new projects in Soweto, Gauteng. This role is central to implementing and refining the core gameplay mechanics that define the player experience. You will work closely with designers and artists to translate innovative ideas into functional, polished, and performant game systems. The ideal candidate possesses a strong command of C++, a deep understanding of game development principles, and a passion for creating engaging and fun interactive experiences. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on gameplay and grow your career within a supportive and creative team.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement, test, and optimize core gameplay mechanics and systems using C++.
• Collaborate effectively with game designers to understand requirements and translate them into code.
• Work with artists and animators to integrate character controls, abilities, and interactions seamlessly.
• Develop and maintain reusable code modules and libraries for gameplay features.
• Profile and optimize gameplay code for performance and stability across target platforms.
• Debug and resolve complex programming issues related to gameplay systems.
• Contribute to the design and architecture of gameplay systems.
• Mentor junior programmers and provide technical guidance.
• Participate in code reviews to ensure code quality and maintainability.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in game development technology and best practices.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game programming, with a strong focus on gameplay systems.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design principles.
• Proven experience implementing and iterating on core gameplay mechanics.
• Solid understanding of game development pipelines and engine architectures (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Experience with physics, animation, AI, and input systems.
• Strong debugging, profiling, and optimization skills.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Portfolio demonstrating gameplay programming expertise is highly desirable.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ZAR.
• Hybrid work model offering a blend of in-office and remote work.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-sponsored retirement plan with matching contributions.
• Opportunities for career advancement and continuous learning.
• Work on exciting and innovative game titles.
• Collaborative and forward-thinking team environment.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.
• Generous paid time off and holiday benefits.
• Regular team social events and activities.