1

Lead Gameplay Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CD PROJEKT RED is looking for a Lead Tools Programmer to join our development efforts on Cyberpunk 2, the next mainline Cyberpunk 2077 game. The Lead Tools Programmer will build and lead a cross ...

Lead Tools Programmer

Boston, MA ยท On-site +1

$168.20K - $257K/yr

CD PROJEKT RED is looking for a Lead Tools Programmer to join our development efforts on Cyberpunk 2, the next mainline Cyberpunk 2077 game. The Lead Tools Programmer will build and lead a cross ...

Lead Tools Programmer

Boston, MA ยท On-site +1

$168.20K - $257K/yr

CD PROJEKT RED is looking for a Lead Tools Programmer to join our development efforts on Cyberpunk 2, the next mainline Cyberpunk 2077 game. The Lead Tools Programmer will build and lead a cross ...

Lead Software Engineer - Automation

Austin, TX

$101.60K - $133.80K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... What We Need As a "Lead Software Engineer - Automation" within Shared Development Services ...

Lead Software Engineer - Automation

Novato, CA ยท On-site

$120.30K - $158.50K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... What We Need As a "Lead Software Engineer - Automation" within Shared Development Services ...

Lead Software Engineer - Automation

Las Vegas, NV

$97.90K - $128.90K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... What We Need As a "Lead Software Engineer - Automation" within Shared Development Services ...

Lead Software Engineer - Automation

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$101.60K - $133.80K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... What We Need As a "Lead Software Engineer - Automation" within Shared Development Services ...

Lead Software Engineer - Automation

Las Vegas, NV ยท On-site

$97.90K - $128.90K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... What We Need As a "Lead Software Engineer - Automation" within Shared Development Services ...

Lead Software Engineer - Automation

Novato, CA ยท On-site

$120.30K - $158.50K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... What We Need As a "Lead Software Engineer - Automation" within Shared Development Services ...

Lead Software Engineer - Automation

Culver City, CA ยท On-site

$112.20K - $147.70K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... What We Need As a "Lead Software Engineer - Automation" within Shared Development Services ...

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for a hands-on Data Science Lead to join the Gameplay Analytics team. You'll lead a team of Data Scientists and Data Engineers and apply mixed methods to own the ...

Familiarity with gaming ecosystems or virtual currency platforms is a bonus, what's essential is ... For the Lead Software Engineer (Mobile Native), we will conduct a background check that may include ...

OR ยท On-site

As a Lead Games Title Product Manager, you will play a critical role in scaling Netflix Games ... Partner deeply with Data Science & Engineering (DSE) to define and operationalize vertical KPI ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lead Gameplay Programmer information

See salary details

$10

$54

$83

How much do lead gameplay programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 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.

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.

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 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 Tools Programmer

CD PROJEKT RED

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description

To create revolutionary, story-driven RPGs which go straight to the hearts of gamers โ€” this is our mission. Want to dive deeper into our companyโ€™s culture? Explore our social media and check out ourย YouTube channelย where we share behind-the-scenes insights and stories direct from our team members!

Job Description

CD PROJEKT RED is looking for a Lead Tools Programmer to join our development efforts on Cyberpunk 2, the next mainline Cyberpunk 2077 game. The Lead Tools Programmer will build and lead a cross-disciplinary team to create, update, and maintain tools that boost the efficiency and effectiveness of content creators and developers. This includes essential tooling for pipeline management, build automation, art and animation, all requiring continuous documentation.

Daily Responsibilitiesย 

  • Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of in-house tools and systems to improve workflows across all disciplines.
  • Develop custom editor tools, content pipelines, and asset management systems that integrate seamlessly with Unreal Engine 5.
  • Collaborate with other departments to proactively identify bottlenecks, pain points, and opportunities for optimization.
  • Integrate and improve existing tools used across projects and the organization.
  • Work with production and recruiting teams to hire, onboard, and scope the tools engineering team.Distill tool support requests into meaningful, actionable work while effectively delegating to the team, ensuring deliverables are processed on time.
  • Propose tools or technologies that could enhance the ability to deliver great systems support.
  • Provide direct management and mentorship to your reports, fostering their professional growth and career ambitions. This includes 1:1s, performance management, hiring, and promotions.
  • Work closely with designers, artists, and other developers to understand their needs and ensure that your team is aligned across disciplines to deliver on the expectations.
  • Ensure the tooling pipeline is running efficiently across the board.
  • Write high-quality code that is optimized, bug-free, and aligned with project goals.
Qualifications
  • At least 5+ years of professional experience as a programmer within the games industry.
  • At least 2 years of experience in a leadership role.
  • Deep proficiency in C++ programming.
  • Extensive experience with Unreal Engine or similar AAA game engines.
  • Proficiency in UI/UX design, specifically with Slate, Editor Utility Widgets, or comparable frameworks.
  • Ability to think creatively and strategically to overcome technical challenges and drive innovation in technology.
  • A customer oriented work ethic.

Nice to have:โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹
(please note these skills are not required for to apply for the position)

    • Prior experience on a released AAA title.
    • Experience with a scripting language or system, such as Blueprint, Python, MEL.
    • Experience with Digital Content Creation software.
    • Experience with C#.
    • Experience with Build system software such as Jenkins, Horde.

    Additional Information

    The application window for this position will close by 10/30/2026.

    This job can be hybrid/in-office or fully remote.
    Remote roles in the US are only available to candidates that reside in the following states:ย 
    California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin.

    Health & Well-Being

    • Company-paid medical healthcare (dental, vision, and mental).
    • Free mental health support, including access to counseling, psychiatric care, and a variety of well-being webinars.
    • Paid leave โ€” 26 days of vacation, 10 sick days, & 12 calendar holidays per year.
    • 401K with employer matching.
    • Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) โ€“ $100 per month to use towards fitness, wellness, internet, home office equipment, learning, streaming services, and more.
    • Menstrual leave โ€” employees who menstruate can take one extra day off when experiencing period pain.
    • RED Parents Network โ€” support for working parents.
    • Flexible working hours.

    Perks & Professional Growth

    • Trainings, lectures, and courses โ€” internal workshops, knowledge-sharing initiatives, online tutorials, and e-learning classes are all available.
    • A welcome pack filled with goodies โ€” to help you feel right at home once you join the team.

    Life in the Office

    • Dog-friendly office โ€” bring your pooch with you and look after them while working! Thereโ€™s always a furry friend or two to meet.
    • Truly international working environment โ€” a chance to meet and work with a diverse selection of people from all around the world.
    • No dress-code โ€” we like to keep it casual.

    This position is a new role.

    Estimated pay range for this position:ย $168,200 -ย $257,000 USD annually.ย 

    At CD PROJEKT RED compensation for our roles in North America are determined based on competitive market data, geographic location, and individual factors tied to business needs. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. Final offers areย dependent on job-related factors like experience, qualifications, and location.

    If you've observed any irregularities (i.e. legal or ethical violations) in our recruitment process, please clickย hereย to report them anonymously.