Intermediate AI Software Engineer (Unreal Engine 5)
About The Position
Blackbird Interactive is seeking an intermediate AI-focused engineer to help build rich, systemic character behaviors in their Unreal Engine 5 projects. The role involves designing and implementing scalable, responsive AI systems in C++ and Blueprints, collaborating deeply with design and animation teams, and growing expertise across modern UE5 subsystems like MassEntity and Gameplay Ability System. This position is remote-friendly within Canada, requiring overlap with Pacific Time. The company is a creative-fueled, future-driven, independent game studio offering long-term careers and working on a range of projects across multiple genres.
Requirements
- 3+ years of professional experience with C++ in Unreal Engine 4/5, with a focus on AI or gameplay systems.
- BSc in Computer Science or a college diploma in software engineering, game programming, or a closely related field.
- Shipped at least one commercial title featuring substantial AI contributions.
- Strong understanding of AI architecture, finite state machines, utility systems, pathfinding, and agent behaviors.
- Ability to prototype quickly and iterate based on playtest data and cross-functional feedback.
- Clear communication across disciplines and ability to write clean, maintainable code.
- Comfortable with Perforce, Git, or similar version control and modern debugging tools.
Nice To Haves
- Deep familiarity with Gameplay Ability System, MassEntity, and Chaos physics.
- Experience building tools or editors for AI designers.
- Knowledge of behavior modeling, combat AI, procedural animation, or machine learning techniques.
- Passion for immersive character behavior and narrative AI.
Responsibilities
- Implement enemy and companion behavior, perception systems, decision-making trees, and high-level strategies using Behavior Trees, EQS, MassAI, and GAS.
- Design scalable, modular AI systems that support a range of enemy types, factions, and emergent behaviors across PC and console targets.
- Leverage UE5’s MassEntity and crowd simulation systems to support large-scale AI interactions and tactical group behaviors.
- Work closely with designers and animators to bring characters to life and ensure AI reacts believably and responsively in gameplay.
- Profile and tune AI performance across platforms; diagnose and fix bugs to meet framerate and memory targets.
- Participate in code reviews, provide mentorship to junior developers, and contribute to best practices in AI code and design.
- Stay on top of UE5 AI tech advancements, prototype new techniques, and share findings through internal demos and discussions.
Benefits
- Remote-first workplace
- Flexible work arrangements
- Long-term careers
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
