Senior UI Programmer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UI Programmer
Company: Epic Games
Location: Multiple Locations (Remote OK)
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Game Development - Programming
Date Posted: December 15, 2025
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design and implementation of core UI features for an ambitious new persistent universe, integrating iconic Disney properties.
• Develop and maintain robust, scalable, and optimized C++ code for user interfaces, including HUD widgets, minimaps, mission flow, activity feeds, and interaction menus.
• Collaborate extensively with cross-disciplinary teams, including designers, artists, and backend engineers, to deliver cohesive and cutting-edge player experiences within the Fortnite ecosystem.
• Drive the evolution of interactive entertainment by contributing to next-generation gameplay and social systems.
• Focus on creating exceptional user experiences with a strong emphasis on player empathy and intuitive interface design.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a Senior UI Programmer, indicating a need for experienced individuals who can not only implement features but also contribute to architectural decisions and mentor junior team members. The collaboration with Disney properties suggests a focus on brand-appropriate UI and a broad appeal to diverse player bases. The mention of the Fortnite ecosystem implies integration with existing live-service game mechanics and community features.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Envision, plan, and implement new UI features, including but not limited to HUD widgets, minimaps, mission flow, activity feeds, and complex interaction menus.
• Write clean, maintainable, and scalable C++ code, adhering to high-quality standards for game development.
• Optimize and debug existing and new UI systems to ensure peak performance and stability across multiple platforms.
• Integrate backend services and APIs to support seamless player experiences, ensuring data consistency and responsiveness.
• Collaborate closely with cross-disciplinary teams, including game designers, UI/UX artists, and fellow programmers, on cutting-edge features within the Fortnite ecosystem.
• Align with backend development teams on service goals, client requirements, and API specifications to ensure cohesive feature development.
• Partner with art and design leads to ensure the UI meets both aesthetic and functional goals, translating creative vision into interactive reality.
• Contribute to the technical direction and architecture of UI systems within the project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative contribution (envisioning features) and technical execution (writing C++ code, optimization, debugging). The emphasis on cross-disciplinary collaboration and alignment with backend teams is crucial for a senior role in a large-scale, live-service project.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Game Design, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience, is highly beneficial.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of professional experience in game programming, with a significant focus on user interface development.
• Proven track record of shipping features for games across multiple platforms (PC, console, mobile).

Required Skills:

• Exceptional, robust C++ programming skills with a deep understanding of object-oriented design principles.
• Demonstrated experience developing features for games across multiple platforms, understanding platform-specific constraints and best practices.
• Proven background in online multiplayer or real-time interactive technology, with an understanding of network synchronization and low-latency requirements.
• Strong empathy for players and a drive to create outstanding, intuitive user experiences that enhance gameplay.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to give and receive constructive feedback effectively within a team environment.
• Experience with UI frameworks and implementation in game development contexts.

Preferred Skills:

• Unreal Engine experience is highly preferred, including familiarity with its UI systems (UMG/Widgets).
• Interest in social, frontend, and gameplay-adjacent systems, demonstrating a holistic understanding of player engagement.
• Experience with performance profiling and optimization techniques for UI elements.
• Familiarity with C# or other scripting languages for UI tools or workflows.
• Knowledge of animation systems and their integration with UI elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "exceptional robust C++ programming skills" and "proven background in online multiplayer or real-time interactive technology" points towards the complexity and scale of the project. The preference for Unreal Engine experience is a strong indicator of the primary development tool.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A portfolio showcasing a range of UI features implemented in shipped games or significant personal projects.
• Demonstrations of complex UI systems such as dynamic HUDs, interactive maps, inventory management, or dialogue systems.
• Examples of UI optimization and performance improvements, with metrics illustrating the impact.
• Case studies detailing the collaborative process with designers and artists to achieve functional and aesthetic UI goals.
• Evidence of C++ code quality, maintainability, and scalability within UI implementations.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates will be expected to discuss their process for designing, implementing, and iterating on UI features.
• Ability to articulate how they approach debugging and optimizing UI performance.
• Experience in documenting UI system architecture, dependencies, and integration points.
• Understanding of agile development methodologies as they apply to UI feature development cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior role, the portfolio should not just show what was built, but how it was built and the candidate's thought process behind it, including problem-solving and collaborative aspects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UI Programmers in Sweden with 5-10 years of experience, and considering Epic Games' global compensation structure, an estimated annual salary range for this role in Umeå, Sweden, would be approximately 650,000 - 900,000 SEK. This estimate accounts for the cost of living in Umeå, the experience level, and the specialized nature of game development programming.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan/pension contributions.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and access to learning resources.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and stock options.
• Relocation assistance may be available for candidates moving to a studio location.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime during crunch periods common in game development.
• Flexibility in work schedule is often provided, with core hours for collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior software engineers specializing in game development in Sweden. Actual compensation will be determined by factors such as candidate experience, specific skill set, and final location.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, Video Games, Entertainment. Epic Games is a leader in game development and engine technology, known for titles like Fortnite and the Unreal Engine. Company Size: 4,500+ employees globally across 46 studios in 25 countries. This indicates a large, established, and resource-rich organization with a global presence. Founded: Over 25 years ago. This long history suggests stability, deep industry experience, and a proven track record of innovation.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the "Programming - Games" division, specifically focusing on UI development for a new persistent universe project in collaboration with The Walt Disney Company.
• You will be part of a dedicated team of programmers, designers, and artists working on a high-profile, AAA-level project.
• The structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, with direct interaction with leads from art, design, and backend engineering.

Methodology:

• Epic Games utilizes an agile development methodology, prioritizing iterative development, continuous feedback, and rapid prototyping.
• A strong emphasis is placed on data-driven decision-making, using player feedback and analytics to inform design and development choices.
• The company fosters a culture of innovation, encouraging experimentation and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.

Company Website: epicgames.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Epic Games is renowned for its innovative culture and its role in shaping the gaming industry. The collaboration with Disney underscores the ambition and scale of this particular project, suggesting a dynamic and fast-paced work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Programmer. This level signifies a subject matter expert responsible for complex feature development, technical leadership, and potentially mentoring junior engineers. Reporting Structure: You will likely report to a Lead UI Programmer or a Programming Director, with direct collaboration across multiple disciplines. Operations Impact: As a Senior UI Programmer, your work will directly influence the player's primary interaction point with the game world, impacting engagement, retention, and overall player satisfaction. Your contributions are critical to the success of this new universe and its integration with beloved Disney franchises.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in Unreal Engine UI development, C++ optimization, and advanced UI/UX principles.
• Technical Leadership: Opportunity to lead specific UI features, mentor junior programmers, and contribute to architectural discussions.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain in-depth experience working with world-class talent across art, design, and backend engineering on a AAA title.
• Industry Recognition: Contribute to a high-profile project that will reach a massive global audience, offering significant professional recognition.
• Career Path: Potential progression to Lead UI Programmer, Programming Director, or specialization in other advanced engine systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a trajectory beyond individual contribution, suggesting opportunities for leadership and mentorship within the operations (programming) team.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is listed as "Remote OK," with a note that it's open to multiple locations in North America (excluding CA, NY, & WA). This suggests a hybrid or fully remote work model is supported, with options for candidates in various regions. Office Location(s): While the primary posting mentions North America, the derived location is Umeå, Sweden. This discrepancy may indicate a global search or specific needs for certain regions. Candidates should clarify their specific location's status.

Workspace Context:

• A remote-friendly environment that leverages collaboration tools for seamless communication and teamwork.
• Access to Epic Games' proprietary tools, including Unreal Engine, and other industry-standard development software.
• A culture that encourages open communication and knowledge sharing among team members, facilitating problem-solving and innovation.
• Opportunities to connect with other remote employees and participate in virtual team-building activities.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week is typical, with flexibility in start and end times to accommodate different time zones and personal needs, as long as core collaboration hours are met.
• Potential for extended hours or "crunch time" during critical development phases, a common practice in the gaming industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Multiple Locations" and "Remote OK" status, coupled with the derived Swedish location, requires clarification for the candidate regarding their specific work arrangement and location eligibility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume and portfolio showcasing relevant UI programming experience.
• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications to assess qualifications and fit.
• Technical Interview(s): Expect one or more interviews focusing on C++ programming, game development principles, and UI-specific challenges. This may involve live coding exercises or in-depth discussions of your portfolio projects.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through your portfolio, discussing your contributions, technical decisions, and problem-solving approaches.
• Cross-Disciplinary Interview: An interview with members of the art and design teams to assess collaboration skills and understanding of UI/UX principles.
• Final Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager or a senior lead to assess overall fit, leadership potential, and strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Impact: Clearly articulate your role and contributions to each project. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "improved loading times by 20%," "reduced UI memory footprint by 15%").
• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the C++ code, architectural decisions, and optimization strategies behind your UI implementations.
• Problem-Solving: Highlight challenging UI problems you encountered and how you overcame them.
• Collaboration: Provide examples of how you worked with designers and artists to achieve project goals.
• Unreal Engine Focus: If you have Unreal Engine experience, ensure your portfolio highlights relevant projects and your proficiency with UMG/Widgets.

Challenge Preparation:

• C++ Fundamentals: Brush up on core C++ concepts, data structures, algorithms, and memory management.
• UI/UX Principles: Understand common UI patterns, accessibility considerations, and best practices for user experience in games.
• Unreal Engine UI: Familiarize yourself with Unreal Engine's UMG (Unreal Motion Graphics) system, Blueprint visual scripting for UI, and C++ integration.
• System Design: Be ready to discuss how you would design or improve specific UI systems, considering scalability, performance, and maintainability.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior role, the portfolio review is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to defend their technical decisions and articulate the impact of their work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• C++: The core programming language for game logic and UI implementation.
• Unreal Engine: The primary game engine, including its UI system (UMG - Unreal Motion Graphics).
• Version Control Systems: Git (or similar) for source code management and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Analytics Tools: Likely proprietary systems for tracking player behavior, UI engagement, and feature performance.
• Debugging Tools: Integrated debuggers within Visual Studio (or IDE of choice) and Unreal Engine's profiling tools.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Tools: Jira, Asana, or similar for task tracking and workflow management.
• Collaboration Platforms: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Discord for real-time communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in C++ and Unreal Engine's UI framework (UMG) is critical. Familiarity with version control and debugging tools is standard for any programming role at this level.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Player First: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the player community by creating engaging and intuitive experiences.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in both game development and technology, pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective success is prioritized.
• Innovation: Encouraging creativity, experimentation, and the adoption of new technologies to solve complex problems.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all aspects of development and business operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork between programming, art, and design.
• Open communication channels are encouraged, with regular feedback loops and knowledge-sharing sessions.
• A culture that values constructive criticism and mutual respect among team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Epic Games is known for its collaborative and innovative culture. The integration with Disney properties likely adds an emphasis on brand alignment and delivering experiences that resonate with a broad, global audience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale and Complexity: Developing UI for a persistent universe with deep integration of multiple IP's presents significant technical and design challenges.
• Cross-Platform Consistency: Ensuring a seamless and high-quality UI experience across various platforms (PC, console, mobile) requires careful planning and execution.
• Performance Optimization: Maintaining smooth UI performance in a complex real-time environment, especially with demanding graphical elements and live data feeds.
• Balancing Player Needs and Brand Identity: Integrating diverse Disney characters and worlds into a cohesive UI that satisfies both player expectations and brand guidelines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Unreal Engine Features: Opportunities to learn and implement cutting-edge features within Unreal Engine's UI and rendering pipelines.
• Large-Scale Project Management: Experience in managing complex feature development within a large, distributed team and a live-service environment.
• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to AAA game development workflows and best practices from a leading company in the industry.
• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by seasoned industry veterans or to mentor junior developers, fostering leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to developing a AAA game, especially one with such high-profile intellectual property. The growth opportunities are significant due to the scale and ambition of the project.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UI system you designed and implemented. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on C++ architecture, problem-solving, and collaboration.)
• "How would you approach optimizing a slow-loading UI screen in Unreal Engine?" (Demonstrate understanding of performance profiling and optimization techniques.)
• "Imagine you need to integrate a new feature that requires real-time data updates into the HUD. What are the key considerations for backend integration and client-side implementation?" (Assess understanding of system integration and client-server communication.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you most about working on a project that integrates Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars properties?" (Showcase enthusiasm for the IP and the project's vision.)
• "How do you ensure your UI design is both functional and aesthetically aligned with established brand guidelines?" (Demonstrate understanding of UI/UX principles and brand sensitivity.)
• "Describe a time you had to give or receive difficult feedback on a UI feature. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?" (Assess collaboration and communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio pieces as mini-case studies, explaining the problem, your solution, your role, and the impact.
• Technical Deep Dive: Be ready to show code snippets (if appropriate and non-confidential) and discuss technical decisions in detail.
• Collaboration Examples: Highlight instances where you worked closely with artists and designers, showing how you translated their vision into functional UI.
• Unreal Engine Specifics: If applicable, demonstrate your proficiency with UMG, Blueprints, and C++ integration within Unreal Engine.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your work in detail, focusing on technical execution, problem-solving, and collaborative contributions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UI Programmer position:

• Submit your application through the Epic Games careers portal, ensuring your resume and portfolio link are up-to-date.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight C++ UI development experience, Unreal Engine proficiency, and examples of complex interactive systems. Prioritize projects that demonstrate problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your years of experience in C++ programming and game development, specifically mentioning UI programming, online multiplayer, and any experience with Unreal Engine. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice answering technical questions related to C++, game development, UI/UX principles, and Unreal Engine. Prepare to walk through your portfolio projects with detailed explanations of your contributions and technical decisions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Epic Games' history, its role in the gaming industry, and its approach to game development. Understand the vision for this new persistent universe and its integration with Disney properties.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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