Senior AI Programmer, Special Projects
Epic Games is seeking a Senior AI Programmer to join its Special Projects team, which focuses on high-impact initiatives that push the boundaries of real-time graphics and gaming technology. This role offers the opportunity to collaborate with the Unreal Engine team to develop cutting-edge interactive experiences and define the future of gaming technology.
In this position, you will be responsible for designing, creating, and maintaining core AI systems for special projects, adopting a systems-level approach to build robust and high-performance architectures. Your day-to-day tasks will include rapid prototyping of game design concepts, iterating on features based on feedback, and writing maintainable code. Collaboration with art, animation, and design teams will be essential to develop and refine gameplay AI features. Additionally, you will work closely with the Fortnite and Unreal Engine teams to enhance core AI systems and their application in games, as well as optimize existing gameplay systems by fixing bugs and improving performance.
The ideal candidate will have professional experience in game development, particularly with Unreal Engine, and a track record of shipping AAA titles featuring gameplay AI. Proficiency in working with gameplay AI systems such as Behavior Trees, Finite State Machines, Hierarchical Task Networks, and Pathfinding is required. Strong C++ programming skills are essential for architecting and building gameplay AI systems and tools. A deep understanding of game design, with the ability to critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of existing games, especially online games, is important. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, self-motivation, and the ability to work independently are also key. Creativity in problem-solving and the capacity to think outside established solutions are highly valued. Knowledge of machine learning and artificial intelligence and their potential applications in gaming is a plus.
Epic Games offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 100% coverage of medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance premiums for employees and their dependents. The company provides a 401(k) plan with a competitive match, a robust mental well-being program offering free therapy and coaching for employees and dependents, unlimited paid time off and sick time, and a paid sabbatical after seven years of employment. Throughout the year, Epic Games celebrates its employees with events and company-wide paid breaks.
Joining Epic Games means becoming part of a team that continually strives to innovate and raise the bar in engine and game development. The company fosters a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment, empowering developers and content creators with the most powerful suite of real-time tools in the world. This role offers significant growth opportunities and the chance to contribute to projects that define the future of gaming technology.