AI Gameplay Programmer

Are you an Unreal Engine Gameplay Programmer with a passion for artificial intelligence and creating realistic, immersive gameplay experiences?

This is an exciting opportunity to join a talented team developing high-fidelity virtual reality training simulations designed to help professionals master complex tasks in safe and engaging environments.

The role...

As a Gameplay Programmer (AI), you’ll design and implement advanced NPC behaviours and AI systems using Unreal Engine 5. You’ll create responsive, intelligent characters that enhance the depth and realism of VR training experiences. Working closely with designers, artists, and animators, you’ll bring virtual characters to life through state-of-the-art AI systems, navigation tools, and performance-optimised code.

This position offers a competitive salary, flexible working options, and the opportunity to work with an international team in a dynamic and supportive environment.

What you'll be doing:

• Design, develop, and implement robust gameplay and AI systems using C++ and Unreal Engine 5.
• Build and refine NPC behaviour, including pathfinding, navigation, state machines, perception, and crowd simulation.
• Create believable and reactive NPCs to support immersive training scenarios.
• Collaborate with 3D artists, animators, and technical artists to achieve high-quality character visuals and animation fidelity.
• Optimise gameplay and AI code for both VR and multiplayer environments.
• Implement analytics and tracking systems to measure player interaction and training performance.
• Write clean, well-documented, and maintainable code that follows industry best practices.
• Share knowledge, mentor colleagues, and contribute to the continuous improvement of the development team.

What we're looking for:

• 3-5 years of professional experience as a gameplay or AI programmer.
• Proficiency in C++ and experience working with Unreal Engine 5.
• Strong knowledge of Unreal Engine’s AI frameworks — behaviour trees, navigation, perception, state machines, and the Environment Query System.
• Experience with Unreal’s Gameplay Ability System, Smart Objects, and crowd simulation.
• Skilled in Unreal Engine Blueprint scripting.
• Strong mathematical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with multiplayer and networked gameplay.
• Familiarity with source control systems such as Perforce or Git.
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.
• A passion for creating realistic and engaging VR simulations or games.

Why join:

• Competitive salary and high growth potential.
• Intensive onboarding and personalised training.
• Flexible working arrangements promoting work-life balance.
• A dynamic, international team that values collaboration and creativity.
• The chance to work on meaningful, innovative VR projects that combine advanced AI with cutting-edge technology.

If you’re an Unreal Engine Gameplay Programmer ready to push the boundaries of AI-driven interaction in VR, this is your opportunity to make an impact on the future of immersive simulation development. Apply now, or email Jack Baxter - jb@skillsearch.com

Years of experience and salary levels are shown purely as a guide. We will only consider applications from candidates that can demonstrate the skills or experience required for the role.

Please be aware that while we would love to respond to every application we receive, due to high numbers we cannot guarantee this. We do however appreciate any time you invest into the application and will make sure to get in touch should anything in future more closely fit your skillset.