Game Server Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

At Visual Concepts, we believe great games are made by diverse and empowered teams with a shared passion for play. As one of the world's top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to critical acclaim and commercial success. Our teams are independent and entrepreneurial. Our studios in Novato, Irvine, Budapest, Shanghai, Austin, Boise, Seoul, and Parksville, Canada are committed to artistry and technical innovation, offering top candidates the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the smartest and most creative minds in the industry.

We're seeking a Senior Engineer with a passion for server-side development to join the NBA 2K team! In this role, you'll take ownership across a broad technical landscape- working in distributed systems, large-scale computing, and efficient databases to build high-performance backend services. Your work will play a key role in delivering world-class online experiences that power one of the most popular sports game franchises in the world. This role reports into Lead Director of Programming.

• Work in the backend architecture and services that support NBA 2K's online features
• Design and optimize distributed systems to ensure scalability, reliability, and fault tolerance
• Build and maintain large-scale computing solutions that handle millions of concurrent players
• Develop efficient database structures and queries to support high-volume, real-time transactions
• Deliver high-performance backend services with a focus on low latency and stability
• Partner with engineering and design teams to enable seamless online gameplay experiences.

• 5+ years of professional software development experience, with a strong focus on backend and server-side systems
• Strong proficiency in C++ with a solid understanding of object-oriented programming principles
• Proficiency in one or more scripting languages such as Python, PHP, Perl, or Ruby, with a strong preference for Python
• Understanding of distributed and scalable systems
• Proven experience with multithreaded programming, driving efficiency and stability across large-scale, real-time environments
• Demonstrated ability to research, evaluate, and integrate emerging technologies and trends to enhance team capabilities, platform performance, and product innovation
• BS in Computer Science or equivalent experience in large-scale software development
• Experience developing secure transaction systems, including virtual currency and account-based features, a strong plus
• Skilled in database optimization, including connection management and query performance tuning
• Familiarity with online gaming architectures and service design for live, connected player experiences
• Working knowledge of SQL databases such as MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, or similar systems
• Video game console development experience is highly beneficial
• Love for video games (not just ours!)

This is a fully remote role that may be based anywhere in the United States. Below are the expected salary and wage ranges for applicants based in locations where the pay transparency law is in effect: California: $130,700 - $174,300 per year. New York State (inclusive of New York City): $117,700 - $157,000 per year. Washington: $130,700 - $174,300 per year. New Jersey: $117,700 - $157,000 per year. British Columbia: $115,700 -$154,300 (CAD) per year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program. Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company's discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year; paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support; family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness-related expenses. Ontario only: The use of Artificial Intelligence is not being used to screen candidates. The position is for an existing vacancy.

To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website at www.vcentertainment.com