At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a small team to develop a narrative deck builder for PC with Unity.
- Company: Join an award-winning indie studio founded by ex-Sony PlayStation leaders.
- Benefits: Remote work, flexible environment, and the chance to make your mark in gaming.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on clean code and innovative game mechanics.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team creating high-quality games that players love.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Lead or Senior Programmer with Unity/C# and PC game development.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Are you a Senior or Lead Unity Programmer who enjoys writing clean code over navigating corporate red tape? Dream Reality Interactive, an award-winning indie studio founded by former Sony PlayStation London Studio leadership, is looking for a Lead Programmer to own the technical architecture of our new, fully funded narrative deck builder for PC (Steam). Come and join a small, highly experienced team with a massive passion for making high-quality games that players obsess over. No fluff, just a focus on solid mechanics and a polished Steam release.
The Details
- Location: Remote (London, UK base) with ad-hoc team days
- Contract Type: Contract
- Start Date: June 1st, 2026
What You’ll Do
- As our technical lead, you will manage a highly capable, small engineering team while remaining hands-on with the codebase. You will have the autonomy to set the technical standard and keep development moving forward.
- Architecture: Build and scale the core systems, including card logic, turn-based state machines, and deck management.
- Leadership: Manage and mentor the programming team, conduct code reviews, and ensure a scalable codebase.
- Custom Tooling: Build robust tools that empower our design team to tweak card balance without needing a developer every time.
- Steam Integration: Oversee the implementation of Steamworks (achievements, cloud saves, etc.) and ensure Steam Deck verification.
- Refinement: Collaborate closely with Art and Design leads to ensure the game looks, feels, and plays flawlessly on PC.
What You Bring
- Unity/C# Expertise: You have successfully shipped at least one PC title as a Lead or Senior Programmer.
- Systems Thinking: You know how to build a scalable, bulletproof rule engine that won't break when we expand to 500+ game cards.
- Technical Chops: Strong experience with Unity’s UI systems, Addressables, platform support, and proven release management.
- PC Focus: You understand exactly what a Steam audience expects: high-res support, rebindable keys, and optimized performance.
- Good Taste & Directness: You know when to build custom and when it’s smart to use an Asset Store plugin. You prefer clean code over engineering and clear communication over corporate speak.
Why Work With Us?
Founded in 2016, we are a tight-knit team of diverse, veteran developers. We offer a highly social, flexible working environment where you have the freedom to be your best self. If you want to leave the fuss behind and make the best game of your career alongside a talented and ambitious crew, you belong here.
How to Apply
Ready to build an awesome indie game? Apply directly via Linkedin with a brief cover note and a link to your portfolio/GitHub or email us at . Important if emailing in: Please include "Lead Programmer" in the subject line of your email.
Lead Software Engineer in London employer: Dream Reality Interactive
Dream Reality Interactive is an exceptional employer for those seeking a meaningful role in game development, offering a flexible and collaborative remote work environment based in London. With a focus on creativity and innovation, employees enjoy the freedom to express their ideas while working alongside a passionate team of industry veterans dedicated to crafting high-quality games. The company prioritises personal growth and mentorship, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to exciting projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Software Engineer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the gaming industry, especially those who might know someone at Dream Reality Interactive. A personal recommendation can go a long way in getting your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you have a portfolio or GitHub, make sure it’s up-to-date with your best work. Highlight projects that showcase your Unity/C# expertise and any relevant experience with PC titles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss your approach to building scalable systems and how you’ve led teams in the past. We love candidates who can communicate clearly and directly!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Don’t forget to include a brief cover note that reflects your passion for game development and why you’d be a great fit for our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Software Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:When you're applying, make sure to highlight your Unity and C# expertise. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on, especially if you've shipped a PC title. We want to see your technical chops in action!
Keep It Clean and Direct:We love clear communication, so keep your cover note concise and to the point. Avoid corporate jargon and fluff; just tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Lead Programmer role. We appreciate honesty and straightforwardness!
Link Your Work:Don’t forget to include a link to your portfolio or GitHub! This is your chance to showcase your previous work and give us a taste of your coding style. Make it easy for us to see what you can bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website:While you can apply via LinkedIn, we encourage you to submit your application through our website. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Let's make this happen!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dream Reality Interactive
✨Know Your Code Inside Out
As a Lead Software Engineer, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in Unity and C#. Make sure you can discuss your previous projects in detail, especially any PC titles you've shipped. Be ready to explain your thought process behind architectural decisions and how you’ve tackled challenges in your code.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a small team, be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Share examples of how you've mentored junior developers or conducted code reviews. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and maintain a positive team dynamic, as this is crucial for success in a tight-knit environment.
✨Understand the Game Development Process
Familiarise yourself with the entire game development pipeline, from concept to release. Be ready to discuss how you would approach building scalable systems and custom tooling that empowers designers. Showing that you understand the balance between technical needs and creative vision will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions that assess your problem-solving skills and systems thinking. Brush up on topics like card logic, turn-based state machines, and Steam integration. Practising coding challenges or system design scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
