Principal Research Programmer

PROGRAMMING - SPECIAL PROJECTS

What We Do

The Special Projects team at Epic is responsible for executing high-impact projects that push the envelope to define the future of real-time graphics and gaming technology (The Matrix Awakens, Lumen in the Land of Nanite). In collaboration with the Unreal Engine team, we strive to put our technology and knowledge into the hands of users, empowering developers and content creators with the most powerful suite of real-time tools in the world.

What You'll Do

The Walt Disney Company and Epic Games are collaborating on an all-new games and entertainment universe.

In addition to being a world-class games experience, this new persistent universe will offer a multitude of opportunities for consumers to play, watch, and engage with content, characters, and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, Avatar, and more.

Players, gamers, and fans of all kinds will be able to create their own stories and experiences, express their fandom in a distinctly Disney way, and share content with each other in ways that they love. Come join us in creating the future of interactive entertainment.

We are seeking a Principal Research Programmer to join the research team for a main internal project in the Fortnite ecosystem. They will be responsible for driving core algorithms and research, collaborating, and iterating between programmers, designers, and artists. They will play a critical role in making the next generation of technology used in games within the Fortnite ecosystem.

In this role, you will

• Experiment with new and existing research techniques and use rapid prototyping while ensuring that strong architectural and algorithmic decisions are made
• Work closely with art and design to create and iterate on engine and game features
• Contribute deep expertise and actionable knowledge in collaboration with other researchers, programmers artists and designers at Epic Games
• Guide and mentor junior programmers
• Write robust, maintainable code

What we're looking for

• Experience developing games professionally, and shipping AAA titles (on multiple platforms preferred)
• Strong analytical abilities with creative problem-solving skills, excelling in thinking innovatively and finding unique solutions
• Strong C++ skills and the ability to code and architect gameplay mechanics and tools
• Experience using Unreal Engine 5
• Well-versed in research methods and the ability to articulate what is strong/weak about the design of existing algorithms (an interest in machine learning is preferred)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Self-motivated, strong work ethic, and able to work independently

EPIC JOB + EPIC BENEFITS = EPIC LIFE

We pay 100% for benefits for both employees and dependents and offer coverage for supplemental medical, dental, vision, critical illness, telemedicine, Life and AD&D, long term disability insurance as well as weekly indemnity (short term disability) and a retirement savings plan with a competitive employer match. In addition to the EAP (employee assistance program), we also offer a robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, which provides free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents.

Pay Transparency Information

The expected annual base pay range(s) for this position are detailed below. Each base pay range is relevant only for individuals who are residents of or will be expected to work within the specified locale. Compensation varies based on a variety of factors, which include (but aren’t limited to) things such as skills and competencies, qualifications, knowledge, and experience. In addition to base pay, most employees are eligible to participate in Epic’s generous benefit plans and discretionary incentive programs (subject to the terms of those plans or programs).