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Lead Gameplay Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tencent

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $347K/yr

Work with and lead a gameplay engineering team to craft development of innovative gameplay content systems and experiences * Work with design and production and engineering leadership to manage the ...

LightSpeed Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $347K/yr

Work with and lead a gameplay engineering team to craft development of innovative gameplay content systems and experiences * Work with design and production and engineering leadership to manage the ...

Striking Distance Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$112K - $147K/yr

They are seeking a Lead Gameplay Engineer to guide a team in implementing various gameplay features and systems, ensuring high-quality game development. Responsibilities : • Lead a team of Gameplay ...

Epic Games

Lead Gameplay Designer

Cary, NC · On-site

In this role, you'll partner closely with design leadership, art, engineering, animation, UX, audio ... You will own and iterate on gameplay systems, mechanics, and content while balancing player ...

Rushdown Studios

Lead Gameplay Systems Engineer

OR · On-site +1

$145K - $165K/yr

Our Role Rushdown Studios is looking for a Lead Gameplay Systems Engineer to join us in support of our partner studio! In this role, you'll develop and maintain a variety of gameplay features and ...

Rushdown Studios

Lead Gameplay Systems Engineer

$145K - $165K/yr

Our Role Rushdown Studios is looking for a Lead Gameplay Systems Engineer to join us in support of our partner studio! In this role, you'll develop and maintain a variety of gameplay features and ...

Bonfire Studios

Lead Gameplay Animator

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

Bonfire is a group of experienced and ambitious developers, proud to be creating our first original ... As our Lead Animator , you'll be accountable for how our game moves and how our animation ...

Bonfire Studios

Lead Gameplay Animator

Irvine, CA

Bonfire is a group of experienced and ambitious developers, proud to be creating our first original ... As our Lead Animator , you'll be accountable for how our game moves and how our animation ...

Echtra Games

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... take the lead on building and polishing it. Qualifications : Required : • You're comfortable ... Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who helped and shaped the world of ...

Echtra Games

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... take the lead on building and polishing it. Qualifications : Required : • You're comfortable ... Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who helped and shaped the world of ...

Echtra Games

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... take the lead on building and polishing it. Qualifications : Required : • You're comfortable ... Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who helped and shaped the world of ...

AGBO

Principal Gameplay Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... lead technical architecture at a project or studio level. • Strong instincts for gameplay feel ... to both engineering and non-engineering stakeholders. • Experience leading or mentoring ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

... AI Engineer skilled in working with creative teams to build key NPC gameplay features and ... Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of core gameplay AI systems * Drive technical ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

... AI Engineer skilled in working with creative teams to build key NPC gameplay features and ... Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of core gameplay AI systems * Drive technical ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

... AI Engineer skilled in working with creative teams to build key NPC gameplay features and ... Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of core gameplay AI systems * Drive technical ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

... AI Engineer skilled in working with creative teams to build key NPC gameplay features and ... Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of core gameplay AI systems * Drive technical ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

... AI Engineer skilled in working with creative teams to build key NPC gameplay features and ... Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of core gameplay AI systems * Drive technical ...

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Lead Gameplay Programmer information

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$10

$54

$83

How much do lead gameplay programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead gameplay programmer in the United States is $54.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $68.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Lead Gameplay Programmer collaborate with designers and artists during game development?

A Lead Gameplay Programmer works closely with designers and artists to translate creative concepts into functional gameplay features. This often involves regular meetings to discuss design intentions, technical feasibility, and implementation plans. The Lead ensures that the programming team builds systems that align with the artistic vision and gameplay goals, often serving as a bridge between creative and technical departments. Effective communication and problem-solving are key, as the Lead must balance design desires with performance and production constraints.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Gameplay Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Gameplay Programmer, you need advanced proficiency in programming languages (such as C++ or C#), a solid understanding of game design principles, and experience with game development frameworks, typically supported by a computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with industry-standard game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity, version control systems, and debugging tools is essential, and certifications in these tools are advantageous. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you effectively guide a team and collaborate with designers, artists, and other engineers. These competencies enable the delivery of high-quality, engaging gameplay experiences while ensuring technical excellence and team cohesion.

What does a Lead Gameplay Programmer do?

A Lead Gameplay Programmer is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of gameplay features in a video game. They work closely with designers and other programmers to ensure that game mechanics are fun, functional, and meet the project's vision. In addition to writing code, they often lead a team of gameplay programmers, providing guidance, setting technical standards, and reviewing code. Their role is crucial in bridging the gap between creative ideas and technical execution, ensuring a smooth and engaging player experience.

What is the difference between Lead Gameplay Programmer vs Gameplay Programmer?

AspectLead Gameplay ProgrammerGameplay Programmer
ResponsibilitiesOversees gameplay development, mentors team, designs core systemsDevelops gameplay features, implements mechanics, collaborates with designers
Required SkillsAdvanced programming, leadership, system designStrong coding skills, gameplay scripting, collaboration
ExperienceTypically 5+ years, leadership experience2-4 years, focused on gameplay coding
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project planningHands-on coding, feature implementation

The main difference between a Lead Gameplay Programmer and a Gameplay Programmer lies in scope and responsibility. The Lead oversees the entire gameplay development process, mentors team members, and makes high-level design decisions. In contrast, the Gameplay Programmer focuses on implementing specific gameplay features and mechanics under guidance. Both roles require strong programming skills, but the Lead also needs leadership and system design expertise.

More about Lead Gameplay Programmer jobs
What states have the most Lead Gameplay Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Gameplay Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Gameplay Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Gameplay Programmer jobs are:
Lead Gameplay Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Gameplay Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 38% As Needed, 8% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 44% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,323 per year, or $55 per hour.

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Tencent

Irvine, CA • On-site, Remote

$168K - $347K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About the Hiring TeamWelcome to Lightspeed LA, the first U.S.-based, AAA game development studio for Tencent Games. Lightspeed LA is focused on building open-world games that emphasize an ambitious living world, sophisticated player-driven gameplay, and mature, thoughtful storytelling. We are developing the first in a series of genre-defining titles.
Why join Lightspeed LA?
For us, it's not only about the exciting, new AAA open world game we're developing but also about team values and studio culture. We foster an open and transparent environment where everyone feels comfortable providing constructive feedback about all aspects of our games.
We encourage the showing of work that's still in progress.
We don't attack or question unfinished work, we celebrate its promise.
We have a No Blame Culture where we blame the problem, not the person.
This is a safe place to fail, and we don't view failure as a negative, but as the natural result of pushing boundaries and trying new things. We create together. We face Challenges Together. We succeed together.What the Role EntailsLightSpeed LA is seeking for a talented and enthusiastic Lead Gameplay Engineer to join our new studio in sunny Irvine California. The ideal candidate will have a strong passion for games and solving ambitious technical and creative problems. Join us and help build a team and culture of mutual respect and passion that pushes boundaries while having lots of fun!
  • Work with and lead a gameplay engineering team to craft development of innovative gameplay content systems and experiences
  • Work with design and production and engineering leadership to manage the gameplay schedule and backlog
  • Implement, debug and optimize gameplay systems in C/C++ and other languages
  • Author lean, high-performance, maintainable code
  • Cultivate strong cross-disciplinary working relationships based on honesty and transparency among various departments within the studio
Leadership and Management:
  • Provide technical leadership across multiple gameplay systems and features
  • Mentor, develop, and learn from engineering colleagues
  • Be a leadership resource for engineers across the entire gameplay team
  • Help build and maintain an open and energetic team culture
  • Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with team members to provide guidance, feedback, and support their professional development
  • Participate in the recruitment and onboarding of new team members, ensuring a diverse and skilled team that aligns with project requirements
  • Facilitate team-building activities to promote a positive and collaborative working environment
Who We Look For
  • Experience working in Unreal Engine
  • Passion and enthusiasm for creating fun and engaging gameplay through iteration and innovation
  • Experience bringing multiple large-scale game titles to completion on PC and consoles
  • 7+ years of professional game programming experience
  • Experience managing direct reports
  • Experience performing in a senior or principal software engineering role or equivalent
  • Ability to collaborate with other engineers, designers, artists and other game developers
  • Ability to work well in a fluid, changing environment as creative challenges evolve
  • Deep knowledge of gameplay systems involving AI, animation, physics, and character-related systems from engine to game
  • Expert in C++, debugging, and 3D mathematics
  • Enjoy working closely with creative and technical team members
  • Value lean, simple, efficient, well-tested code
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
Preferred:
  • Experience with game console hardware
  • Understanding of game asset pipelines
Why Join Us?Perks and Benefits:
Just some of the benefits of working with us here at our newly built studio in Irvine, CA.
Free daily lunch
Beverages, fresh fruit, and snacks
401k with employer match
Monthly Cell phone bill reimbursement
Financial wellness sessions
Flexible spending account
Team building and company outings
Parental leave for new parents
Company paid health insurance
Life and disability insurance
Employee assistance program
Wellness training
Travel insurance
Preventive care
If the above sounds like you, or if you'd like to know more about the role, we'd love to hear from you to see if we might be a good fit for each other! Contact us for more information about this exciting opportunity.

Location State(s)

US-California-IrvineThe expected base pay range for this position in the location(s) listed above is $168,500.00 to $347,200.00 per year. Actual pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Employees hired for this position may be eligible for a sign on payment, relocation package, and restricted stock units, which will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Subject to the terms and conditions of the plans in effect, hired applicants are also eligible for medical, dental, vision, life and disability benefits, and participation in the Company's 401(k) plan. The Employee is also eligible for up to 15 to 25 days of vacation per year (depending on the employee's tenure), up to 13 days of holidays throughout the calendar year, and up to 10 days of paid sick leave per year. Your benefits may be adjusted to reflect your location, employment status, duration of employment with the company, and position level. Benefits may also be pro-rated for those who start working during the calendar year.Equal Employment Opportunity at Tencent

As an equal opportunity employer, we firmly believe that diverse voices fuel our innovation and allow us to better serve our users and the community. We foster an environment where every employee of Tencent feels supported and inspired to achieve individual and common goals.

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