Principal Game Programmer

Stack

Responsibilities

• ▹Drive technical and architectural decisions across major systems
• ▹Own the most technically demanding work: deep optimization, cross-system refactors and high-risk areas of the codebase
• ▹Set and uphold technical standards and best practices
• ▹Mentor programmers of all levels through pairing, code reviews and technical guidance
• ▹Own documentation and knowledge sharing for the systems and domains you know best
• ▹Identify, evaluate and prototype new tools and workflows to improve the team's output
• ▹Contribute to hiring through technical interviews and onboarding

Requirements

• ▹10+ years of experience in the game development industry
• ▹Expert-level C++ with deep understanding of programming principles, system design and large-scale architectures
• ▹Extensive game programming experience across engine-level work and tools development
• ▹Deep knowledge of Unreal Engine internals and major subsystems
• ▹Proven track record of shipping AA/AAA titles with significant ownership over core systems
• ▹Strong debugging, profiling and optimization skills across CPU and GPU, including platform-specific work
• ▹Demonstrated mentorship experience
• ▹Excellent communication and documentation skills, able to explain complex concepts to engineers and non-engineers
• ▹Sound judgment on when to build, refactor or ship as-is
• ▹2+ years of console programming experience (PlayStation, Xbox)

Nice to have

• ▹Deep specialization in a domain (gameplay, tools, rendering, animation or AI)
• ▹Prior experience on a Principal/Staff IC track at another studio
• ▹Console certification work (PlayStation, Xbox)
• ▹Having shipped at least one AA/AAA game

Soft skills

What we offer

• ▹Modern, centrally located office in Frankfurt, Germany (near Messe)
• ▹Free language courses
• ▹Monthly allowances for remote working and gym membership
• ▹Monthly allowance for the Deutschlandticket
• ▹Tax-free Probonio vouchers every month
• ▹Free access to an online mental health platform (Bloom)
• ▹Career growth opportunities with a yearly learning and development budget
• ▹28 days of paid vacation, plus December 24 and 31 off

About the company

DECK 13 Interactive is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive environment. It believes diverse teams create the best games.