Senior Gameplay Programmer & Systems Designer

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Performance bonuses

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, invites a Senior Gameplay Programmer & Systems Designer to translate design concepts into engaging gameplay. You will craft core mechanics, AI, combat systems, and player interactions using C++ and modern engines in a creative, hybrid-work environment.

Collaborate with designers, artists, and engineers to ship polished gameplay, optimize performance, and iterate based on feedback.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Game Development, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and refine core gameplay mechanics, player controls, and character abilities using C++.
• Develop and integrate complex game systems, including AI behaviors, combat logic, physics interactions, and progression systems.
• Collaborate with game designers to iterate on gameplay concepts and ensure technical feasibility.
• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code for gameplay systems.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance on target platforms.
• Debug and troubleshoot gameplay issues, identifying root causes and implementing robust solutions.
• Work with the tools team to develop or enhance tools that support gameplay programming and design.
• Participate in code reviews, providing and receiving constructive feedback.
• Contribute to technical design discussions and assist in architectural decisions related to gameplay.
• Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in game programming and systems design.

Skills

C++ proficiency

Unreal Engine / Unity

Game design principles

Debugging & profiling

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Game Development

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a studio celebrated for its innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging player experiences, is seeking a talented Senior Gameplay Programmer & Systems Designer to join their team in Benoni, Gauteng. This role is critical in translating design concepts into functional, fun, and polished gameplay systems. You will be deeply involved in the design, implementation, and iteration of core game mechanics, AI, combat systems, and other interactive elements that define the player's journey. The ideal candidate possesses a strong C++ programming background, a keen understanding of game design principles, and a passion for creating responsive and intuitive player interactions. You will collaborate closely with designers, artists, and other engineers to bring ambitious gameplay visions to life within a dynamic and creative Benoni environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and refine core gameplay mechanics, player controls, and character abilities using C++.
• Develop and integrate complex game systems, including AI behaviors, combat logic, physics interactions, and progression systems.
• Collaborate with game designers to iterate on gameplay concepts and ensure technical feasibility.
• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code for gameplay systems.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance on target platforms.
• Debug and troubleshoot gameplay issues, identifying root causes and implementing robust solutions.
• Work with the tools team to develop or enhance tools that support gameplay programming and design.
• Participate in code reviews, providing and receiving constructive feedback.
• Contribute to technical design discussions and assist in architectural decisions related to gameplay.
• Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in game programming and systems design.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Game Development, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum of 5+ years of professional experience in gameplay programming for video games.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and experience with game development frameworks or engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Solid understanding of game design principles and the ability to translate design ideas into code.
• Experience designing and implementing complex game systems like AI, combat, or player progression.
• Familiarity with performance profiling and optimization techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and debugging capabilities.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a hybrid work setting.
• A passion for creating fun and engaging gameplay experiences.
• Experience working on shipped titles is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, retirement planning, and performance bonuses.
• This hybrid role allows for a balance between in-office collaboration in Benoni and remote flexibility.
• Employees benefit from continuous learning opportunities and career advancement within the company.
• Our client fosters a creative and supportive work culture, promoting innovation and teamwork in the heart of Gauteng.