Full-Time

World Interaction Lead Gameplay Programmer

Updated on 11/18/2024

2K

2K

1,001-5,000 employees

Develops and publishes interactive video games

Consumer Software
Gaming

Compensation Overview

$140k - $230kAnnually

+ Bonus + Equity Awards + 401(K) eligibility

Senior, Expert

Novato, CA, USA

Role can be onsite, fully remote, or hybrid.

Category
Game Engineering
Software Engineering
Required Skills
Unreal Engine
Data Structures & Algorithms
Animation
C/C++
Requirements
  • 10+ years industry or related experience.
  • Previous experience leading a gameplay engineering team.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related discipline.
  • Strong 3D Math skills with expert C/C++ experience.
  • Strong understanding of current data structures, algorithms and methodologies.
  • Wide range of game application and game engine skills (e.g., AI, physics, camera, animation, audio, etc.).
  • Current console experience.
  • Strong understanding and familiarity with current Unreal Engine technology desired.
  • Ability to research, analyze and optimize code to meet performance requirements.
  • Ability to work independently and efficiently under reasonable deadlines.
  • Proven leadership skills and willing to take initiative to communicate, coordinate, and negotiate between different disciplines with kindness and respect.
  • Excellent organizational and written communication skills.
  • Work ethic focused on dynamism and collaboration.
  • Analytical and strategic thinker with communication skills to express clearly and concisely with technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Highly detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and able to embrace change for a fast-growing organization.
  • Track record of successfully recruiting, developing, mentoring, and retaining top technical talent.
  • Ability to discuss, support, and advocate personal opinions while being receptive to differing viewpoints.
  • Uncompromising ethics and unwavering integrity.
  • Champion of high standards, pushing for progress, embracing change, and challenging the status quo.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as Lead Gameplay Programmer for our World Interactive Systems Pod which owns all non-Player and non-AI gameplay systems.
  • Work closely with the Lead Designer and Lead Producer of your Pod on: scheduling, strategy, and support.
  • Coordinate efforts across internal and external development groups, and helping to guide the technical direction of Gameplay across the project.
  • Partner closely with design, other engineering groups, animation, and audio to further the goals of the project.
  • Mentor and support the programmers on your team, both internal and CoDev, training them into ever increasing skills and capabilities.
  • Support your team and help them provide technical designs for new features and/or changes in engine.
  • Work in Unreal 5 to build new technology and adapt existing systems to fulfill the project’s creative requirements.
  • Research coding techniques and algorithms in order to keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively with a high degree of detail with peers, partners, and different cultural groups across multiple disciplines.
  • Build and nurture strong relationships with our other projects’ Engineering Teams, utilizing their expertise when appropriate.
  • Ensure effective contributions from our Co-Development partners; ensure they are part of the team.
  • Facilitate ensemble code reviews to provide visibility and engagement.
  • Maintain the values of Cloud Chamber.

2K develops and publishes video games, catering to a wide audience that includes casual gamers, hardcore enthusiasts, and professional eSports players. The company collaborates with well-known game studios like Supermassive Games and Firaxis Games to create engaging titles across various genres. For example, they have published games such as "The Quarry," an interactive horror drama, and "TopSpin 2K25," a tennis simulation featuring real-life players and exclusive items. 2K generates revenue through direct game sales, downloadable content (DLC), in-game purchases, and seasonal passes, which enhance the gaming experience. Their approach to working with top-tier developers and offering a diverse range of gaming experiences sets them apart from competitors. The goal of 2K is to provide high-quality interactive entertainment that appeals to a broad spectrum of gamers.

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Novato, California

Founded

2005

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

0%

1 year growth

2%

2 year growth

26%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • 2K's recent acquisition of Gearbox and the development of the next Borderlands game highlight its commitment to expanding its portfolio and market presence.
  • The announcement of Civilization VII and the revival of the TopSpin series demonstrate 2K's dedication to both innovation and nostalgia, appealing to a broad audience.
  • Collaborations with major sports leagues like the NFL and FIFA position 2K as a leader in sports gaming, attracting a dedicated fanbase and potential eSports opportunities.

What critics are saying

  • The competitive nature of the video game industry requires constant innovation and high-quality releases to maintain market position.
  • Dependence on high-profile licenses, such as FIFA, could pose risks if these partnerships are not renewed or if the games fail to meet expectations.

What makes 2K unique

  • 2K's collaboration with renowned studios like Supermassive Games and Firaxis Games ensures high-quality, engaging titles that stand out in the competitive gaming market.
  • The company's multifaceted revenue model, including game sales, DLC, in-game purchases, and exclusive content partnerships, provides diversified income streams.
  • 2K's ability to secure high-profile licenses, such as the FIFA franchise, and develop games across various genres, from sports to horror, sets it apart from competitors.

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Benefits

Health Care Benefits

Health Savings Account (HSA) Including Company Contribution

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

401k Retirement Plan

Life and Disability Benefits

Group Legal Plan

Wellbeing Program

Childcare Benefits

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Generous Compassionate Leave

Companywide End of Year Break