Software Engineer (Unreal Engine 5 – Multiplayer)

Blackbird Interactive is a creative-fueled, future-driven, independent game studio where the best talent in the industry can find long-term careers to help grow their abilities while working on a wide range of projects, which encompass world-class IPs as well as our own creations across multiple genres.

In 2022, we announced that our studio is implementing a four-day work week as well as supporting in-studio, remote within Canada, and hybrid work arrangements as permanent options to our employees.

Intermediate Software Engineer (Unreal Engine 5 – Multiplayer)

We’re seeking a passionate engineer to drive our multiplayer initiatives, building cutting-edge networked experiences that elevate our established IP into new, immersive realms.

Multiplayer Systems Development:

• Design, implement, and maintain robust multiplayer networking systems using Unreal Engine 5.
• Develop network replication, synchronization, and state management for smooth, low-latency multiplayer experiences.
• Rapidly prototype new multiplayer mechanics and features in both Blueprints and C++ to test and iterate innovative gameplay ideas.

Collaborative Problem-Solving:

• Work closely with designers, artists, and senior engineers (including network specialists) to translate creative multiplayer concepts into functional, polished experiences.
• Participate in code reviews and technical discussions, contributing insights and best practices specifically around multiplayer and networking challenges.

Technical Growth & Ownership:

• Lead the design and integration of multiplayer gameplay systems that are scalable and maintainable.
• Experiment with and adopt new networking tools and processes, pushing the technical boundaries under the guidance of senior team members.
• Take ownership of the network architecture, ensuring its robustness under various gameplay scenarios.

Continuous Optimization & Troubleshooting:

• Profile and optimize both gameplay and network code for performance, memory usage, and bandwidth efficiency.
• Diagnose and resolve complex bugs related to multiplayer functionality, ensuring a stable and consistent experience for players across different platforms.

Planning & Estimation:

• Provide accurate estimates for tasks related to multiplayer systems, aligning development timelines with technical feasibility.
• Maintain clear and proactive communication with stakeholders about progress, challenges, and solutions, especially in areas impacting online play and network stability.

What You Bring:

• 3+ years of professional game development experience, with a strong background in Unreal Engine 4 or 5.
• Proven expertise in modern C++ and a solid understanding of multiplayer networking principles and gameplay programming fundamentals.
• A Bachelor’s degree or diploma in computer science (or equivalent hands-on experience).
• A collaborative mindset with a willingness to tackle cross-disciplinary challenges, particularly in the realm of online multiplayer systems.
• Experience working on at least one shipped title for PC, console, or mobile, with a demonstrable focus on multiplayer components.

Pluses:

• Experience with listen server architectures, and/or cloud-based multiplayer solutions.
• Familiarity with performance profiling, latency optimization, and network debugging techniques.
• Familiarity with mobile development practices and optimization techniques for Android platforms is highly desirable.

$110,000 - $120,000 a year

Why Join Blackbird Interactive?

Become a key player in shaping the future of our multiplayer projects. At Blackbird Interactive, you’ll have the opportunity to create immersive, networked gameplay experiences, enjoy a flexible four-day work week, and collaborate with a team dedicated to innovation and excellence. If you’re ready to bring your networking expertise, creative problem-solving skills, and passion for multiplayer development to our ambitious projects, we want to hear from you!