We are a crowdfunded company and have a dedicated and enthusiastic community of backers who are helping us create the “Best Damn Space Sim Ever”. We want to build the best we can deliver and we believe wholeheartedly in the value of exceptional diverse talent.
As a Lead Graphics Programmer in the Manchester Studio, you would be pushing forwards the rendering technology that powers a huge sandbox universe, spanning every conceivable scale from shading interstellar gas clouds, planets and asteroid belts, down to rendering individual human hairs.
You will also advance the core rendering technology that aspires to achieve photo-real visuals, such as physically based light, eye and lens simulations, as well as more low-level engine technologies such as shader building & compilation, content streaming systems, and the multi-threaded and cross-API renderer architecture.
All of this will be achieved using the latest PC hardware, technology and APIs to produce a fast and scalable suite of visual technology to power some of the most ambitious games ever developed.
Founded in 2012, Cloud Imperium Games creates cutting-edge videogames that defy expectations. We’re currently developing Star Citizen, a record-breaking multiplayer online space sim, and Squadron 42, a cinematic single-player adventure set in the same universe.
What does a Lead Graphics Programmer at Cloud Imperium Games do?
In short, on a daily basis you will:
- Lead the technical direction of graphics and rendering systems within your domain.
- Drive research and implementation of new cutting-edge graphics technology and tools.
- Own major rendering features and systems from design through to delivery and long-term maintenance.
- Analyse, refactor and improve upon existing graphics technology.
- Manage a team of graphics programmers, including performance reviews, development planning, and day-to-day support.
- Coordinate workload and priorities within the graphics team in collaboration with production and engineering leadership.
- Work closely with art, design, and engineering teams to align visual goals with technical solutions.
- Assist and advise other software developers in use of graphics/rendering features, while debugging and fixing complex problems.
- Profile and optimise the entire rendering pipeline, including lighting and shading components of the game.
- Help define technical standards, workflows, and performance targets for the rendering team.
- Keep up to date with the latest graphics and rendering techniques and tools, helping us to innovate, plan, and deliver full features.
What do we expect from our Lead Graphics Programmers?
- Expert-level C++ skills in a large shared codebase, including architecture, code reviews, and performance-critical systems.
- Strong experience with shader languages and modern graphics APIs.
- Deep knowledge of 3D rendering, 3D math, and optimisation of the complete rendering pipeline.
- Proven experience owning significant graphics or engine-level systems.
- Experience managing engineers, including performance management and career development.
- Strong software debugging skills to effectively track, diagnose and solve complex issues.
- Work well in a cooperative, cross-functional team environment; ability to translate technical jargon to non-technical audiences.
Diversity Statement
CIG is a global company, staunchly committed to cultivating a culture and workplace that celebrates all backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives. Together, we are creating a space where authentic recognition, appreciation, and understanding of the importance of diversity is fostered by everyone. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strive to build a team that represents all walks of life, and we want every employee to bring all the things that make them unique to the work environment. The universe is as vast and varied as the people in it, and it’s our differences that make it special.
Fraud Statement
We are aware of people receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from CIG. These types of fraud can be carried out through false websites, fake email addresses claiming to be from our company, or social media. We do not ask for your personal info like bank account numbers, identification numbers, etc through social media or chat-based apps, nor do we request or send money for the purchase of business equipment.
If you suspect fraud, please report it to your local authorities, as well as reaching out to us at info[@]cloudimperiumgames.com with any information you may have.*
If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!
Skills Required
- Expert-level C++ skills in a large shared codebase, including architecture, code reviews, and performance-critical systems
- Strong experience with shader languages
- Strong experience with modern graphics APIs
- Deep knowledge of 3D rendering, 3D math, and optimisation of the complete rendering pipeline
- Proven experience owning significant graphics or engine-level systems from design through delivery and maintenance
- Experience managing engineers, including performance management and career development
- Strong software debugging skills to track, diagnose and solve complex issues
- Experience with shader building and compilation, content streaming systems, and multi-threaded/cross-API renderer architectures
- Ability to work cross-functionally with art, design, and engineering and translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences
What We Do
Cloud Imperium Games is a new kind of independent studio dedicated to delivering AAA experiences outside the established publisher system, founded by Chris Roberts, creator of the best selling Wing Commander and Freelancer series, Cloud Imperium is currently developing Star Citizen, a record-shattering crowd funded title that combines classic space sim gameplay with Hollywood-caliber visuals. Cloud Imperium aims to pave new ground in game development by sharing the process with the players. Where game development was once hidden, Cloud Imperium has opted to share the process with those backing Star Citizen. Supporters come to know the team and follow them every step of the way as the game created. The community is closely engaged and their feedback Is considered in all aspects of game development, avoiding standard publicity to put Roberts’ epic vision directly in players’ hands. Cloud Imperium has studios in Los Angeles, California ; Austin, Texas ; Manchester, UK and Frankfurt, Germany.
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