11 SEP 2025

Our client in New Zealand is seeking a talented and pragmatic Senior Gameplay Programmer to take a leading role in the development of their debut project. You’ll be responsible for shaping and delivering the core gameplay systems, guiding engineering standards, and collaborating closely with design, art, and production to bring the game to life.
As one of the foundational hires on the team, you’ll be instrumental in building the technical backbone and helping to define how the project comes together. This is a rare chance to influence not just the game itself but the workflows and culture around it from the very beginning.

What you’ll do

• Drive technical development, including scoping, designing, and supporting major gameplay systems.
• Partner with Design and Art/Animation teams to evolve prototypes into polished gameplay experiences.
• Transform experimental builds into robust, reusable systems for the full game.
• Create and refine mechanics for character movement, combat, stealth, AI, navigation, and other gameplay pillars.
• Ensure future scalability and stability, particularly in preparation for console releases.
• Contribute to creative discussions and help shape the player experience.

What we’re looking for

• 5+ years in game programming roles, with at least one shipped console title in Unreal Engine.
• Advanced C++ skills and strong knowledge of Unreal’s Blueprint system.
• Proven console experience and understanding of porting requirements.
• Comfort with version control (Git, Perforce) and build automation pipelines.
• Solid background in performance optimization.
• Experience working in AA game environments or smaller studios is a strong advantage.

Bonus points for

• Passion for storytelling, narrative design, or cinematic presentation.
• Familiarity with documentation practices such as ADRs and structured reporting.
• Experience in VFX or animation workflows, with exposure to tools like Maya or Houdini.
• A rapid prototyping mindset and passion for iterative, playtest-driven development.

What’s on offer

• The chance to help shape a new project from the ground up.
• Join a team that values both professional excellence and having fun along the way.
• Live and work in stunning New Zealand.
• Competitive salary tailored to the local market.
• Flexible hybrid setup (minimum 60% in the Wellington studio).
• Relocation and visa assistance for international hires.

• Drive technical development, including scoping, designing, and supporting major gameplay systems.
• Partner with Design and Art/Animation teams to evolve prototypes into polished gameplay experiences.
• Transform experimental builds into robust, reusable systems for the full game.
• Create and refine mechanics for character movement, combat, stealth, AI, navigation, and other gameplay pillars.
• Ensure future scalability and stability, particularly in preparation for console releases.
• Contribute to creative discussions and help shape the player experience