Advanced AI Gameplay Programmer

Description

As a Senior AI Gameplay Programmer at Certain Affinity, you will build the brain behind our world. You’ll collaborate with designers and artists to define how characters, creatures, and monsters navigate, react, and evolve within the game. We are looking for a veteran engineer who doesn't just "make things work," but builds scalable, performant systems that serve as the backbone for immersive, high-fidelity player experiences.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain robust AI frameworks, including decision-making systems, sensory systems, and spatial reasoning.
• Partner closely with designers and animators to translate creative visions into responsive, believable character behaviors.
• Identify and develop tools that empower content creators, reducing the friction between a design concept and its in-game implementation.
• Diagnose complex, cross-cutting issues that span AI, animation, physics, and gameplay logic.
• Lead by example through code reviews and technical documentation, elevating the engineering standards of the entire team.
• Ensure AI systems are highly performant, squeezing maximum "intelligence" out of the CPU budget.

Technical Requirements

• 6+ years in Software Engineering, specifically within the games industry.
• Proven track record with core AI architectures and navigation systems.
• Deep understanding of the intersection between AI and animation (e.g., root motion, procedural animation, and IK).
• Strong mastery of 3D math and its application in physics-based character movement.
• Expert-level C++ skills with a focus on performance profiling, memory management, and debugging.
• Deep understanding of data structures, algorithms, and architectural patterns relevant to modern game engines.

Non-Technical Requirements

• Ability to turn high-level creative objectives into concrete technical plans.
• A self-starter capable of taking ownership of large-scale systems with minimal oversight.
• Able to explain complex technical constraints to non-technical stakeholders clearly and empathetically.
• A systematic, detail-oriented approach to debugging and long-term system stability.

Extra Credit

• Hands-on experience with Unreal Engine 5’s AI systems.
• Experience with systemic AI or "living world" simulations.
• A passion for narrative-driven action games.

Salary Range: 130K-170K CAD
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