At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a small team to develop a narrative deck builder game using Unity.
- Company: Join an award-winning indie studio with a passion for high-quality games.
- Benefits: Flexible remote work, creative freedom, and a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team focused on innovation and quality.
- Why this job: Make your mark on an exciting project and lead a talented team.
- Qualifications: Experience in Unity/C# and a passion for 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 Unity Software Engineer (Games) in Southampton employer: Dream Reality Interactive
Dream Reality Interactive is an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a significant impact in the gaming industry. With a focus on creativity and collaboration, our remote team based in London fosters a flexible work culture that prioritises personal growth and innovation. Join us to work on exciting projects with a passionate group of veteran developers dedicated to crafting high-quality games that resonate with players.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Unity Software Engineer (Games) in Southampton
✨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 introduction can make all the difference in getting noticed.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you have any projects or games you've worked on, make sure to highlight them in your conversations. A portfolio that showcases your Unity expertise and clean coding style will definitely catch their eye.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for a chat! Prepare to discuss your experience with scalable systems and Steam integration. They want to see that you can lead a team while still being hands-on, so be ready to share examples of how you've done this before.
✨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 making high-quality games and your fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Unity Software Engineer (Games) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to highlight your Unity and C# expertise in your application. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on, especially if you've shipped a PC title. We want to see what you can do!
Keep It Clean and Clear:Just like we value clean code, we appreciate clear communication in applications. Avoid jargon and corporate fluff; be direct and to the point about your experience and what you bring to the table.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your cover note to reflect your passion for narrative games and how your skills align with our needs. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for our indie studio.
Include Your Portfolio: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. Apply through our website or email us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dream Reality Interactive
✨Know Your Code Inside Out
As a Lead Unity Programmer, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in Unity and C#. Make sure you can discuss your previous projects in detail, especially the technical challenges you faced and how you overcame them. Be ready to showcase your clean coding practices and any innovative solutions you've implemented.
✨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 led a project. Highlight your ability to conduct effective code reviews and how you ensure a collaborative environment within your team.
✨Understand the Game Mechanics
Familiarise yourself with the mechanics of deck-building games and be ready to discuss how you would approach building scalable systems for card logic and turn-based state machines. Showing that you understand what makes a game engaging will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to Unity’s UI systems, Addressables, and Steam integration. Brush up on these topics and think through potential scenarios they might ask about. Being able to articulate your thought process clearly will demonstrate your technical chops and problem-solving abilities.
