Lead Engineer

Lead Engineer

Guildford Full-Time 54000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a talented team in developing an exciting open-world multiplayer game.
  • Company: Join a dynamic indie studio known for innovative gaming experiences.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with flexible on-site days and a creative environment.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of game development, shaping the future of multiplayer gaming.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in game programming with leadership experience and Unreal Engine expertise required.
  • Other info: This role is perfect for those passionate about building strong engineering cultures.

The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.

Skillsearch are working with an indie studio to find an Engineering Lead and work on an open-world multiplayer sandbox developed in Unreal Engine 5. This is a hybrid role with 2 days on-site at the studio in Guilford. Sorry, the studio cannot offer sponsorship including transfers.

Key Responsibilities

  • Project technical owner, setting direction and standards across all systems.
  • Leading and mentoring the engineering team with hands-on code contributions and architectural oversight.
  • Building systems across gameplay, networking, tools, UI and online services.
  • Driving AI/ML tooling adoption and cross-team collaboration.
  • Hiring, onboarding, and growing a high-performing engineering team.
  • Championing a strong, sustainable engineering culture in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

  • 10+ years of professional experience as a game/engine programmer with technical leadership on shipped titles.
  • Shipped titles using Unreal Engine with deep expertise in networking, gameplay systems, Lyra, motion matching, custom tools, and engine extensions.
  • Proven track record in building and scaling engineering teams.
  • Strong background in multiplayer architecture and online integrations (e.g., EOS, Steam).

Does this sound like you? Submit your Resume, portfolio, and a cover letter detailing your experience and why you are applying for this role. You can apply here or send your application to sm@skillsearch.com. Skillsearch is a global market leader in Games recruitment.

Lead Engineer employer: Skillsearch

At our indie studio in Guilford, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. As a Lead Engineer, you will not only lead a talented team but also have the opportunity to shape the future of an exciting open-world multiplayer game developed in Unreal Engine 5. With a strong focus on professional growth, mentorship, and a commitment to maintaining a sustainable engineering environment, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the benefits of a hybrid work model.
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Contact Detail:

Skillsearch Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Make sure to showcase your experience with Unreal Engine 5 prominently. Highlight specific projects where you've contributed to gameplay systems, networking, or AI/ML tooling, as these are key areas for the Lead Engineer role.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in mentoring teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've built and scaled engineering teams in the past, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead at our studio.

✨Tip Number 3

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in multiplayer architecture and online integrations. Being able to discuss your insights on platforms like EOS and Steam will show that you're not just experienced but also up-to-date with industry standards.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with professionals in the gaming industry, especially those who have worked with indie studios. Engaging with others can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Engineer

Unreal Engine 5 Expertise
Game Programming
Technical Leadership
Networking Systems
Gameplay Systems Development
AI/ML Tooling
Multiplayer Architecture
Online Integrations (e.g., EOS, Steam)
Team Mentoring and Development
Architectural Oversight
Custom Tools Development
Project Management
Strong Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability in Fast-Paced Environments

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your 10+ years of experience as a game/engine programmer. Emphasise your technical leadership on shipped titles, especially those developed using Unreal Engine.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, detail your experience with multiplayer architecture and online integrations. Explain why you are passionate about this role and how your background aligns with the studio's needs.

Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a portfolio that demonstrates your work on shipped titles, particularly focusing on gameplay systems, networking, and any custom tools you've developed. This will give the hiring team a clear view of your capabilities.

Highlight Leadership Experience: Since the role involves leading and mentoring an engineering team, be sure to mention any previous experience in building and scaling teams, as well as your approach to fostering a strong engineering culture.

How to prepare for a job interview at Skillsearch

✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise

Be prepared to discuss your experience with Unreal Engine and any shipped titles you've worked on. Highlight specific projects where you contributed to gameplay systems, networking, or AI/ML tooling, as this will demonstrate your technical leadership capabilities.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

Since the role involves mentoring and leading a team, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully built and scaled engineering teams in the past. Discuss your approach to fostering a strong engineering culture and how you handle challenges within a team.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect in-depth technical questions related to multiplayer architecture and online integrations. Brush up on your knowledge of EOS, Steam, and other relevant technologies, as well as your problem-solving strategies in these areas.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the studio's projects, team dynamics, and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values and work style.

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