Engine Programmer (Mid/Senior) at Rockstar Games

Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom

Rockstar Games Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Video Games, GamingIndustries

Requirements

  • A degree in Computer Science/related discipline, or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years’ experience in C/C++ game development
  • One shipped title; preferably on the Xbox and/or PlayStation consoles

Responsibilities

  • Design, implement, and maintain systems collaboratively with Gameplay, Art, and other teams to create a state-of-the-art open-world simulation
  • Maintain existing codebase and support the wider development team in diagnosing problems and coming up with efficient and practical solutions
  • Perform research to acquire new knowledge necessary to perform tasks and continue the technological evolution of the game
  • Develop high performance and easy to use tools and systems for streaming, world representation, and other subsystems

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Memory ManagementData StreamingPopulation SystemsLODScene ManagementScripting EngineLow-Level SystemsHardware OptimizationOpen-World Simulation

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this position remote or in-office?

This is a full-time, permanent and in-office position based in Rockstar’s unique game development studio in the heart of Dundee, Scotland.

What are the required qualifications for this Engine Programmer role?

Candidates need a degree in Computer Science or related discipline (or equivalent experience), 5+ years’ experience in C/C++ game development, and one shipped title, preferably on Xbox and/or PlayStation consoles.

What key skills are needed for this position?

Required skills include a technical understanding of core game systems, excellent problem-solving skills, great technical communication skills, an analytical performance-focused mindset, and experience with systems like streaming, scene management, multithreading, or memory management.

What is the company culture like at Rockstar Games?

Rockstar offers an inclusive, highly-motivated environment where you can learn and collaborate with some of the most talented people in the industry, as part of a global Engine team focused on low-level systems and hardware optimization.

What makes a strong candidate for this Engine Programmer role?

A strong candidate has 5+ years in C/C++ game development, a shipped console title, experience with core systems like streaming or memory management, and pluses like multi-platform experience or passion for open-world games.

Rockstar Games

Develops and publishes popular video games

About Rockstar Games

Rockstar Games develops and publishes popular video games, focusing on creating immersive experiences for gamers on platforms like Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. Their games, such as "Grand Theft Auto" and "Red Dead Redemption," are known for their engaging storytelling, impressive graphics, and gameplay mechanics. Rockstar generates revenue through game sales, both physical and digital, as well as in-game purchases and downloadable content, which provide ongoing income after the initial sale. They also engage in licensing deals and merchandise related to their game franchises. What sets Rockstar apart from competitors is their commitment to high-quality game development and continuous investment in research to enhance gaming technology. The company's goal is to deliver exceptional gaming experiences that captivate a global audience.

New York City, New YorkHeadquarters
1998Year Founded
$5MTotal Funding
ACQUISITIONCompany Stage
Entertainment, GamingIndustries
1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Company Equity
Performance Bonus
Flexible Work Hours

Risks

Frequent game content leaks could undermine marketing strategies and financial outcomes.
Delayed PC releases, like GTA VI, might frustrate PC gamers and affect sales.
High expectations for GTA VI could lead to backlash if not met.

Differentiation

Rockstar Games develops high-quality, immersive games with strong storytelling and graphics.
The company uses its proprietary Rockstar Advanced Game Engine (RAGE) for game development.
Rockstar Games has a diverse portfolio, including GTA, Red Dead, and Max Payne.

Upsides

Cross-platform play and cloud gaming trends enhance Rockstar's game accessibility.
User-generated content and modding communities extend game lifecycles and engagement.
AI integration in games enhances NPC behavior and immersive experiences.

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