At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and implement cutting-edge AI systems for immersive gaming experiences.
- Company: Join Side, a global leader in video game development with studios across 15 countries.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for remote work and creative collaboration.
- Why this job: Contribute to exciting projects and enhance gameplay while working with passionate gamers.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in game development with strong C++ skills and AI expertise required.
- Other info: This is a talent pool application for future project-based opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative solutions to many of the largest developers and studios around the world. Founded in Japan in 1994, Side has grown to become a global force in the video game industry, with over 40 studios in 15 countries worldwide and offices across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. Our industry-leading services include codev, art production, localization, audio production, quality assurance, localization QA, player support, community management, and datasets. Help us bring stories to the world. Join Side's global team of passionate gamers and contribute to top-notch game development. Discover opportunities in Asia, North America, South America, Europe, and beyond.
About This Opportunity
Please note, this listing is not for an immediate open position but for our Talent Pool for Co-Development Roles. By applying, you express interest in being considered for future project-based opportunities that align with your skills and experience. These opportunities are contingent on client needs and project availability. As projects are initiated or client proposals are developed, we will review candidates from this pool and contact those who most closely align with the specific requirements of the co-development opportunity.
How We Keep You Engaged
We maintain strong relationships with our talent pool by providing regular updates, industry insights, and information on upcoming opportunities. We will check in to confirm your availability and interest. Our hiring teams carefully vet and select top candidates who best meet project needs, ensuring that you are matched with the right opportunity when it becomes available.
Next Steps
If you are passionate about contributing to cutting-edge projects and want to be considered for future co-development opportunities, we encourage you to apply to this listing. While there may not be an immediate opening, your application ensures that you will be part of our ongoing talent review for upcoming roles.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, architect, and implement core AI systems, including behavior trees, decision-making algorithms, and pathfinding solutions.
- Collaborate with designers, artists, and other engineers to integrate AI features that enhance gameplay experiences.
- Refine and optimize AI systems throughout the project lifecycle to ensure performance and functionality across platforms.
- Provide technical designs and specifications for AI features and tools.
- Write and debug core AI code, ensuring maintainable and scalable solutions.
- Develop tools and utilities to support AI development and testing.
- Mentor junior engineers, sharing technical expertise and promoting best practices.
- Proactively identify and address challenges related to AI development, devising creative and effective solutions.
- Maintain regular communication with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure cohesive development.
Requirements
Experience:
- 3+ years of experience in game development as an AI Engineer or Gameplay Programmer.
- Demonstrated contribution to at least one shipped title on PC, console, mobile, or VR/AR.
Programming Skills:
- Proficiency in C++ programming, with the ability to write clear, maintainable, and portable code.
- Solid understanding of system architecture and design principles.
- Strong debugging and problem-solving skills, particularly for creative AI scenarios.
AI Development Expertise:
- Knowledge of behavior trees, state machines, goal-driven behaviors, and decision-making systems.
- Experience with pathfinding algorithms, influence maps, or similar systems.
- Understanding of performance optimization techniques for AI systems.
Collaboration Skills:
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with experience working closely with designers and artists.
- Ability to adapt to feedback and iterate effectively during development.
- Genuine enthusiasm for crafting immersive AI-driven gameplay experiences.
Preferred Skills
- Familiarity with Modern C++ Standards.
- Experience with proprietary AI technology and tools development.
- Knowledge of open-world AI systems and client/server architecture.
- Familiarity with Havok AI or similar systems for movement and pathfinding.
AI Engineer employer: PTW
Contact Detail:
PTW Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land AI Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Stay updated on the latest trends in AI development within the gaming industry. Follow relevant blogs, forums, and social media channels to understand what technologies and techniques are currently being used by top studios like Side.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the gaming community by participating in game jams or contributing to open-source projects. This not only enhances your skills but also helps you build a network of contacts who might refer you to opportunities at companies like Side.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for gaming and AI by creating a portfolio that highlights your projects. Include any shipped titles you've worked on, especially those that demonstrate your expertise in AI systems and collaboration with other disciplines.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive in reaching out to current employees at Side through platforms like LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any advice they might have for someone looking to join their talent pool for co-development roles.
We think you need these skills to ace AI Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in game development, particularly as an AI Engineer or Gameplay Programmer. Emphasise your contributions to shipped titles and any specific AI systems you've worked on.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for gaming and AI development. Mention specific projects or experiences that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description, and express your enthusiasm for future opportunities with Side.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, clearly outline your programming skills, especially in C++. Provide examples of how you've implemented AI features, optimised performance, and collaborated with cross-disciplinary teams in past projects.
Stay Engaged: After applying, keep an eye on your email for updates from Side. They maintain strong relationships with their talent pool, so be prepared to confirm your availability and interest in upcoming opportunities.
How to prepare for a job interview at PTW
✨Showcase Your AI Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your experience with AI systems, particularly behaviour trees and decision-making algorithms. Highlight specific projects where you've implemented these concepts, as this will demonstrate your expertise and relevance to the role.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with designers and artists, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past projects. Emphasise your communication skills and ability to adapt to feedback during development.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to C++ programming and AI development. Brush up on your coding skills and be ready to solve problems on the spot, as this will showcase your debugging and problem-solving abilities.
✨Express Your Passion for Gaming
Let your enthusiasm for gaming shine through during the interview. Share your favourite games and discuss what you love about their AI features. This will help convey your genuine interest in contributing to immersive gameplay experiences.