Senior AI Programmer (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Senior AI Programmer (Gamedev): Developing new character AI for a boxing video game using Unreal Engine 5 with an accent on attack, defence, ring movement, and stamina management. Focus on optimizing and maintaining AI systems to AAA fidelity and integrating with existing controls.

Location: Hybrid in Sheffield or Leamington Spa, UK.

Company

Steel City Interactive is creating an authentic and exciting boxing game that does justice to the sport.

What you will do

• Design, implement, and maintain AI systems using Unreal Engine's native tools, such as State Trees and Blackboards.
• Create believable boxing opponents with advanced decision-making for attack, defense, ring movement, and stamina management.
• Collaborate with designers to define and refine AI designs into manageable tools and reliable outcomes.
• Optimize and balance AI systems to deliver reactive, efficient, and fair opponents across difficulty levels and game modes.
• Contribute to code reviews, best practices, and documentation for the combat/gameplay teams.

Requirements

• Proven experience in AI programming for games.
• Experience with Unreal Engine 4 or 5 AI systems (Behavior/State Trees, Perception strongly preferred).
• Strong understanding of the underlying (UE) engine structures and techniques.
• Solid understanding of software architecture and engineering best practices.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.

Culture & Benefits

• Healthy work-life balance with 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service up to 30 days.
• Flexible working hours & pattern (Certain Hybrid models available).
• Great office environment with studios in Sheffield and Leamington Spa, with free snacks, fruit and drinks available.
• Private Healthcare which includes Optical & Dental.
• Discretionary Bonus.