Rockstar Games hiring Lead Programmer, United Kingdom in Edinburgh

Rockstar Games North is seeking a seasoned and highly technical Lead Programmer to spearhead the evolution of our Creator Platforms, specifically focusing on the continued growth and integration of the FiveM and RedM ecosystems. Based in our state‑of‑the‑art studio in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, this leadership role is at the vanguard of the “User Generated Content” (UGC) revolution in gaming.

As a Lead Programmer at Rockstar, you will be responsible for the low‑level architecture that empowers millions of players and creators to build, share, and experience custom game modes on dedicated servers. This position requires a rare blend of deep technical “under‑the‑hood” knowledge and sophisticated leadership capabilities. You will manage high‑performing engineering teams while collaborating with global stakeholders to ensure our creator tools remain the most powerful and secure in the entertainment industry.

The Creator Platform team’s mandate is to democratize game development within the Rockstar ecosystem. We build the technology that allows creators to develop their own game modes and modifications using a variety of scripting languages. By joining this team as a Lead Programmer, you are not just building a feature; you are building an engine for community creativity.

• Strategic Architecture: Develop and maintain a comprehensive strategy for the continuous improvement of the FiveM and RedM platforms.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Oversee multiple engineering teams and mentor senior and junior developers.
• SDLC Management: Implement and maintain a rigorous Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
• Integration Strategy: Devise strategies for integrating Creator Platform technology into core Rockstar products.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Act as a bridge between the Creator Platform and other departments.
• Group Scaling: Support the ongoing growth of the technical group.
• Milestone Planning: Work with production and engineering leads to set attainable development milestones.

At Rockstar Games, we believe that an inclusive environment is a fundamental driver of creative excellence. We are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diverse global community that plays our games.

• System Design: At least 5 years of hands‑on experience designing and developing low‑level software systems.
• Leadership Tenure: At least 3 years of experience leading engineering teams of 10 or more people.
• Coding Mastery: Strong proficiency in C++ and at least one scripting language.
• Shipping History: Experience shipping at least one console or PC title.

• Strategic Thinker: Experience crafting and accomplishing technical roadmaps.
• Communication: Ability to tailor complex technical information for non‑technical stakeholders.
• UGC Interest: A keen interest in the modding and user‑generated content communities.

• Proven experience in Reverse Engineering, particularly for interoperability or security auditing.

Rockstar North is one of the most prestigious game development studios in the world. Located in Scotland’s capital, the studio offers a unique blend of historical inspiration and cutting‑edge technology.

We believe the best “low‑level” problem solving happens in person. Our Edinburgh studio is a hub of high‑motivation where you will collaborate with the industry’s most talented developers. Rockstar is committed to a work environment that promotes equal opportunity.