Member of Technical Staff

Ego (YC W24)

Job Summary

Ego AI is seeking a Member of Technical Staff to build the future of games with AI characters that evolve. This role involves developing and shipping prototypes and game features using the Character Engine, designing AI character behavior systems, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will work with an open-source stack and fine-tuned behavior models, iterating rapidly based on player feedback to create believable, persistent characters in interactive worlds.

Must Have

  • Build and ship prototypes and game features showcasing the Character Engine.
  • Design and implement systems for AI character behavior.
  • Collaborate with artists, designers, and researchers.
  • Work hands-on with the open-source stack (Character Context Protocol).
  • Strong programming skills (C++ or similar).
  • Experience building gameplay systems, AI systems, or other complex game features.
  • Interest in AI/ML concepts (reinforcement learning, LLMs, or simulation frameworks).

Good to Have

  • Prior research in AI/ML concepts.
  • Experience with multiple game engines (Unity, Unreal, Godot, etc.).
  • Background integrating ML/AI systems into gameplay or tools.
  • Experience with LLMs or reinforcement learning frameworks.

Job Description

The Role

At Ego AI, we're building the future of games: worlds populated by AI characters that feel alive — with memory, personality, and behavior that evolve over time. Our Character Engine blends cutting-edge AI research with game development to create characters who farm, fight, explore, and connect across platforms, from 3D worlds to Discord, Netflix, and beyond.

We're looking for software engineers who are excited to push the boundaries of behavior-driven game design. You'll join a small, world-class team of engineers, designers, and researchers working at the intersection of games and AI.

  • Build and ship prototypes and game features that showcase our Character Engine
  • Design and implement systems for AI character behavior
  • Collaborate with artists, designers, and researchers to bring believable characters into game loops
  • Work hands-on with our open-source stack (Character Context Protocol)

Key Responsibilities

  • Build and ship prototypes and game features that showcase our Character Engine in living, interactive worlds
  • Design and implement systems for AI character behavior — from perception and memory to personality-driven decision making
  • Collaborate with artists, designers, and researchers to bring believable, persistent characters into game loops
  • Work hands-on with our open-source stack (Character Context Protocol) and fine-tuned behavior models
  • Ship early experiments, gather player feedback, and iterate rapidly to bring new ideas to life

Required Qualifications

  • Strong programming skills (C++ or similar; bonus for Unity, Unreal)
  • Experience building gameplay systems, AI systems, or other complex game features
  • Interest in AI/ML concepts (reinforcement learning, LLMs, or simulation frameworks)
  • Comfort working in a fast-moving startup environment where roles overlap and execution speed matters
  • Curiosity, creativity, and a passion for games where characters matter as much as mechanics

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

  • Prior research in AI/ML concepts
  • Experience with multiple game engines (Unity, Unreal, Godot, etc.)
  • Background integrating ML/AI systems into gameplay or tools
  • Experience with LLMs or reinforcement learning frameworks

Project Highlights

  • Help define a new category of AI-driven characters that go beyond chatbots
  • Collaborate with top researchers and industry partners
  • Be part of a team turning research into real playable worlds — not just papers
  • Shape the future of games, simulations, and interactive entertainment

Got what it takes?

In your application we want to see your personal style — what makes you tick and why you think your next opportunity is here with us.

8 Skills Required For This Role

Team Management Cpp Unreal Unity Game Texts Prototyping Reinforcement Learning Godot