Lead Gameplay Programmer

Epic Games•Cary, NC

19h

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Lead Gameplay Programmer to direct gameplay teams within Rocket League. They will be responsible for leading the gameplay programming team and collaborating and iterating with gameplay programmers, game designers, producers, and artists. They will play a critical role in feature development for Rocket League. In this role, you will Manage a team of seasoned gameplay programmers and be the primary hub of communication and information for other disciplines Distill high-level feature requests into meaningful, actionable work items and delegate effectively to the team Deliver core gameplay features efficiently and on time, and speak up when the team is over- or under-scoped Lead the vision for different gameplay systems and features and write code and do system design as needed Propose and review technical design, systems, and technical approaches to ensure that they satisfy requirements and promote a healthy codebase Work closely with art and design leads to ensure gameplay mechanics meet functional requirements and uphold our high standards Work closely with other programming disciplines to integrate systems in support of the player experience

Requirements

Experience developing gameplay physics systems (simulation, collision, character/vehicle physics, etc.)
Experience with network replication systems (client-server prediction, state synchronization, lag compensation)
Proven track record delivering live-service games or AAA MMO titles built on Unreal Engine
Proven leadership experience managing high-performing programming teams on shipped AAA titles
Strong C++ skills and the ability to code and design gameplay mechanics and tools
Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to collaborate and communicate to work cross-functionally and give/receive constructive feedback
Experience using AI coding assistants (e.g., Claude Code) to improve development efficiency and streamline programming workflows

Responsibilities

Manage a team of seasoned gameplay programmers and be the primary hub of communication and information for other disciplines
Distill high-level feature requests into meaningful, actionable work items and delegate effectively to the team
Deliver core gameplay features efficiently and on time, and speak up when the team is over- or under-scoped
Lead the vision for different gameplay systems and features and write code and do system design as needed
Propose and review technical design, systems, and technical approaches to ensure that they satisfy requirements and promote a healthy codebase
Work closely with art and design leads to ensure gameplay mechanics meet functional requirements and uphold our high standards
Work closely with other programming disciplines to integrate systems in support of the player experience

Benefits

Medical
Dental
Vision HRA
Long Term Disability
Life Insurance
401k with competitive match
Robust mental well-being program through Modern Health (free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents)
Events and company-wide paid breaks
Unlimited PTO and sick time
Paid sabbatical for 7 years of employment