Lead Gameplay Programmer

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?
At the core of Epic’s success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it’s building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we’re always innovating.
Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We’re constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.
PROGRAMMING - GAMES
What We Do
Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of programming experts. We’re always improving on the tools and technology that empower content developers worldwide.
What You'll Do
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 overor 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
What we're looking for
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
This role is open to multiple locations in North America (including CA & WA).
Pay Transparency Information
The expected annual base pay range(s) for this position are detailed below. Each base pay range is relevant only for individuals who are residents of or will be expected to work within the specified locale. Compensation varies based on a variety of factors, which include (but aren’t limited to) things such as skills and competencies, qualifications, knowledge, and experience. In addition to base pay, most employees are eligible to participate in Epic’s generous benefit plans and discretionary incentive programs (subject to the terms of those plans or programs).
California Base Pay Range
$190,010—$278,682 USD
Washington Base Pay Range
$172,736—$253,347 USD
ABOUT US
Epic Games​ ​is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.
Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!
Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.
Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.