Senior Gameplay and AI Programmer
Summary
Senior gameplay and AI programmer at a Bangkok game studio, architecting core gameplay and AI systems in C++ for Unreal Engine titles shipping across PS5, Xbox Series X, and mobile. Owns AI systems end to end, optimizes performance, builds designer tooling, and mentors junior developers.
About the Role
As a Senior Gameplay Programmer, you are a technical pillar of the development team. You will architect and own core gameplay systems, ensuring they are performant, scalable, and feel exceptional to the player. You will act as a bridge between creative vision and technical execution, mentoring junior developers while solving the complex engineering challenges inherent in cross-platform AAA development.
Responsibilities
● System Architecture: Lead the design and implementation of robust, extensible gameplay frameworks (e.g., combat systems, locomotion, inventory, and world interaction) in C++ (Unreal).
● AI System Ownership: Own AI systems from concept to launch, ensuring their quality, stability, and performance.
● Core AI Implementation: Architect and implement advanced AI systems using methodologies like Behavior Trees, State Trees, Utility AI, and GOAP, specifically leveraging Unreal Engine's features.
● Integration & Interoperability: Integrate AI and gameplay with animation (state machines, locomotion, IK), physics, and combat systems.
● Performance & Optimization: Own the frame rate and memory footprint of gameplay systems. Profile and optimize code to ensure seamless performance on both high-end consoles and resource-constrained mobile devices.
● Advanced Debugging: Debug complex issues involving AI decision-making, pathfinding, and multi-system interactions.
● Cross-Platform Mastery: Develop and maintain features that scale gracefully across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and high-end Mobile platforms.
● Tooling & Workflow: Create data-driven tools and visual editors to empower Designers and Artists to iterate on gameplay logic without constant engineering support.
● Technical Mentorship: Drive high coding standards through rigorous code reviews, technical documentation, and hands-on guidance for Junior and Mid-level programmers.
● Collaboration: Partner closely with Lead Designers and Art Directors to translate abstract creative concepts into polished, responsive gameplay mechanics.
● Technical Strategy: Contribute to the long-term technical direction for gameplay and AI within the studio.
● R&D: Proactively research and integrate emerging technologies (such as UE5’s Motion Matching) to keep the studio at the cutting edge of the industry.
Requirements
● Experience: 5+ years of professional game development experience, with at least 3 years in a Senior capacity.
● Shipped Titles: At least one shipped AAA or high-fidelity AA title on Console (PS5/Xbox) or PC.
● Technical Depth: Expert-level proficiency in C++. Deep understanding of memory management, multi-threading, and Data-Oriented Design.
● Math Skills: Strong foundation in 3D math (vectors, quaternions, linear algebra) for character movement and spatial systems.
● Engine Expertise: Advanced knowledge of Unreal Engine (Gas, Blueprints, C++ API).
● Deep understanding of game AI techniques (Behavior Trees, GOAP, Utility AI, Navigation Mesh customization, etc.).
● Leadership: Proven ability to break down complex features into actionable tasks and provide accurate time estimates for production.
● Language: Good in English.
Nice to Have
● Experience developing for Open-World titles (streaming logic, LOD management, and large-scale world persistence).
● Background in AI Programming (Behavior Trees, GOAP, or NavMesh customization).
● Familiarity with Unreal Engine 5 features (Nanite, Lumen, or the Mass Entity framework).
What We Offer
● A senior role in a high-growth studio with a unique cultural mission.
● A creative, office-based environment in the heart of Bangkok.
● A seat at the table in defining the technical direction of our flagship titles.
