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Lead Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Epic Games

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Cary, NC · On-site

What You'll Do We are seeking an experienced Lead Gameplay Programmer to direct gameplay teams within Rocket League. You'll drive the gameplay engineering team and play a critical role in feature ...

Andritz

Lead Burn Plasma/Laser Programmer

Ruston, LA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Relocation Assistance Available We are seeking a Lead CNC Plasma/Laser Programmer to join our team in Ruston, LA. This role is responsible for programming and operating burn table equipment, ensuring ...

NTT DATA Services

Lead Systems Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$63K - $94K/yr

We are currently seeking a Lead Systems Programmer to join our team in Alpharetta, Georgia (US-GA), United States (US). Role Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server ...

NTT DATA Services

Lead Systems Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site +1

$63K - $94K/yr

We are currently seeking a Lead Systems Programmer to join our team in Alpharetta, Georgia (US-GA), United States (US). Role Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server ...

Sidram Technologies

Programmer/Analyst: IV (Lead)/ Lead Workday Financials Engineer Location - Any HNB Footprint Contract to Hire We are seeking a Senior / Lead Workday Financials Engineer for a contract-to-hire ...

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Lead Programmer information

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How much do lead programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead 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 is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In a development context, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of software engineers or developers, with L1 being entry-level and L4 being senior or lead roles. These levels often indicate experience, responsibility, and skill set, with L2 and L3 representing mid-level and advanced developers, respectively. Job responsibilities, expectations, and compensation generally increase with each level, and companies may use these designations to structure career progression and team hierarchy.

How does a Lead Programmer typically balance hands-on coding with team leadership responsibilities?

As a Lead Programmer, you'll often split your time between writing code and overseeing the development process for your team. While you may still handle complex coding tasks or set technical standards, a significant part of your role involves mentoring team members, conducting code reviews, and coordinating with other departments like QA and product management. Effective Lead Programmers are skilled at delegating tasks, ensuring code quality, and facilitating clear communication to keep projects on track. Striking the right balance between technical contribution and leadership is key to both your team's success and your own career growth.

Will AI replace coders by 2040?

As a lead programmer, it is unlikely that AI will fully replace human coders by 2040, but automation and AI tools are expected to augment programming tasks, increasing efficiency and changing skill requirements. Coders will need to adapt by developing expertise in AI integration, machine learning, and advanced problem-solving. Human oversight remains essential for complex, creative, and ethical aspects of software development.

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

To thrive as a Lead Programmer, you need expertise in software development, advanced programming languages, and project management, often supported by a computer science degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and agile methodologies is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving ability, and strong communication are essential soft skills to guide teams and coordinate stakeholders. These skills ensure efficient project delivery, high-quality code, and productive team collaboration in technical environments.

What is the role of a lead programmer?

A lead programmer is responsible for overseeing the development team, designing software architecture, and ensuring coding standards are met. They coordinate project tasks, review code, and collaborate with other departments to deliver functional software solutions efficiently.

What is the highest paying job in programming?

The highest paying programming roles are often specialized positions such as software architects, machine learning engineers, and technical leads, especially in industries like finance, technology, and healthcare. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer salaries exceeding $150,000 annually depending on location and company size.

What are Lead Programmers?

Lead Programmers, also known as Lead Developers, are senior software engineers responsible for guiding a team of programmers through the development lifecycle of a software project. They make crucial technical decisions, oversee code quality, and ensure that the team meets project requirements and deadlines. In addition to hands-on coding, Lead Programmers often coordinate with project managers and other departments, mentor junior developers, and help resolve technical challenges that arise during development.

What is the difference between Lead Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectLead ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; experience in coding and project leadershipBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; strong coding skills
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project planning, code reviewIndividual coding, feature development
Employer & Industry UsageSoftware companies, tech firms, game developmentWide range of industries including tech, finance, healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in programming teamsFocus on coding and development tasks

The main difference between a Lead Programmer and a Software Developer lies in their responsibilities. Lead Programmers oversee project direction, coordinate teams, and review code, while Software Developers primarily focus on writing code and developing features. Both roles require strong programming skills and relevant education, but Lead Programmers have additional leadership duties within the development process.

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What states have the most Lead Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Programmer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Programmer jobs? For Lead Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lead Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Programmer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, and 75% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,323 per year, or $55 per hour.
Lead Gameplay Programmer

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Epic Games

Cary, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?
At the core of Epic's success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we're always innovating.
Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.
ENGINEERING - GAMES
What We Do
Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and technology that empower content developers worldwide.
What You'll Do
We are seeking an experienced Lead Gameplay Programmer to direct gameplay teams within Rocket League. You'll drive the gameplay engineering team and play a critical role in feature development for upcoming seasons.
In this role, you will
  • Mentor and coach a team of gameplay engineers, serving as the primary communication hub across disciplines
  • Distill high-level feature requests into actionable work items and delegate effectively
  • Deliver core gameplay features on time, flagging when the team is over- or under-scoped
  • Define the vision for gameplay systems and features
  • Propose and review architecture and technical approaches to ensure they meet requirements and support a healthy codebase
  • Write code directly when needed
What we're looking for
  • Professional game development experience, including shipping AAA titles
  • Experience leading a gameplay engineering team on shipped AAA titles
  • Strong C++ skills with the ability to architect and implement gameplay mechanics and tools
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Experience working on a live service game
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Multi-platform development experience is a plus
  • Passion for games is a plus
EPIC JOB + EPIC BENEFITS = EPIC LIFE
Our intent is to cover all things that are medically necessary and improve the quality of life. We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental, a Vision HRA, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance & a 401k with competitive match. We also offer a robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, which provides free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents. Throughout the year we celebrate our employees with events and company-wide paid breaks. We offer unlimited PTO and sick time and recognize individuals for 7 years of employment with a paid sabbatical.
ABOUT US
Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.
Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!
Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.
Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.

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