> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3054685-lead-gameplay-programmer-new](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3054685-lead-gameplay-programmer-new). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Lead Gameplay Programmer New - **Company:** Epic Games, Inc. - **Location:** Cary, NC, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** C++ (Programming Language), Unreal Engine - **Published:** September 24, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.gamesjobsdirect.com/job/epic-games/lead-gameplay-programmer/359850 ## About the Role * Experience developing gameplay physics systems (simulation, collision, character/vehicle physics, etc.) * Experience with network replication systems (client-server prediction, state synchronization, lag compensation) * Proven track record delivering live-service games or AAA MMO titles built on Unreal Engine * Proven leadership experience managing high-performing programming teams on shipped AAA titles * Strong C++ skills and the ability to code and design gameplay mechanics and tools * Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to collaborate and communicate to work cross-functionally and give/receive constructive feedback * Experience using AI coding assistants (e.g., Claude Code) to improve development efficiency and streamline programming workflows ## Description * Manage a team of seasoned gameplay programmers and be the primary hub of communication and information for other disciplines * Distill high-level feature requests into meaningful, actionable work items and delegate effectively to the team * Deliver core gameplay features efficiently and on time, and speak up when the team is over- or under-scoped * Lead the vision for different gameplay systems and features and write code and do system design as needed * Propose and review technical design, systems, and technical approaches to ensure that they satisfy requirements and promote a healthy codebase * Work closely with art and design leads to ensure gameplay mechanics meet functional requirements and uphold our high standards * Work closely with other programming disciplines to integrate systems in support of the player experience ## Related Videos - [WeAreDevelopers LIVE - "Fun and games - and all that comes with it", Back to BASIC & more](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1719-wearedevelopers-live-fun-and-games-and-all-that-comes-with-it-back-to-basic-more) - [Modern C#: A Dive into the Community's Most Loved new Features.](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/693-modern-c-a-dive-into-the-community-s-most-loved-new-features) - [The Impact of AI on Game Development and the Industry](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100297-the-impact-of-ai-on-game-development-and-the-industry) - [The Future Past of Technology - A Game Developers POV](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1386-the-future-past-of-technology-a-game-developers-pov) - [The Story of Games](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/226-the-story-of-games) - [Functional Programming in C++](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1409-functional-programming-in-c) ## Related Articles - [10 Coding Games to Teach You How to Code](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/151-10-coding-games-to-teach-you-how-to-code) - [John Romero - What AI Can, Can’t, and Shouldn’t do for Games](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/478-john-romero-what-ai-can-can-t-and-shouldn-t-do-for-games) - [What Developers Can Learn from Indie Games](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/650-what-developers-can-learn-from-indie-games) - [What is Agentic Programming and Why Should Developers Care?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/625-what-is-agentic-programming-and-why-should-developers-care) - [The Prompt Engineer ✍️](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/216-the-prompt-engineer) - [What Jobs Can You Get with a Software Engineering Degree?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/398-what-jobs-can-you-get-with-a-software-engineering-degree)