Senior UI Programmer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UI Programmer Company: Epic Games Location: Cary, North Carolina, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Game Development / Software Engineering (UI Focus) Date Posted: 2025-11-10T21:04:34 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years recommended) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and implement cutting-edge User Interface (UI) features for a new persistent universe, collaborating closely with design, art, and engineering teams.
• Craft intuitive and powerful interfaces that enhance player engagement across various platforms within the Fortnite ecosystem.
• Write clean, maintainable, and scalable C++ code, optimizing and debugging both new and legacy systems to ensure seamless player experiences.
• Integrate backend systems to support dynamic UI functionalities and align with backend developers on client and service goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core responsibilities are clearly defined, this role's "Senior" title in a company like Epic Games, coupled with the mention of a "persistent universe" and collaboration across "Fortnite ecosystem," implies a significant level of technical leadership, architectural input for UI systems, and a deep understanding of live-service game development complexities. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not just coding proficiency but also strategic thinking around UI scalability and player engagement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Envision, plan, and implement new UI features, including but not limited to HUD widgets, minimaps, mission flow systems, activity feeds, and complex interaction menus.
• Write robust, maintainable, and scalable C++ code, adhering to best practices for game development and large-scale software systems.
• Optimize and debug existing and new UI systems to ensure high performance, stability, and responsiveness across multiple platforms.
• Integrate backend systems and services to support dynamic UI functionalities, ensuring a seamless and connected player experience.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-disciplinary teams, including game designers, artists, backend engineers, and other frontend engineers, to deliver cohesive and high-quality features.
• Partner closely with art and design leads to translate aesthetic and functional requirements into polished, user-friendly interfaces.
• Contribute to technical design discussions and provide input on UI architecture and best practices within the team and broader project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on programming role with a strong emphasis on UI development. The mention of "Fortnite ecosystem" suggests that experience with live-service games, iterative development, and potentially large-scale player bases is highly valued. Candidates should highlight experience in areas like performance optimization for complex UIs and integration with backend services relevant to online gaming.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Game Design, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. Experience: 5-10 years of professional experience in game development, with a significant focus on UI programming.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional and robust C++ programming skills, with a strong understanding of object-oriented design principles and memory management.
• Proven experience developing features for games across multiple platforms (PC, consoles, mobile).
• Demonstrated background in online multiplayer or real-time interactive technology, understanding the challenges of networked gameplay and UI synchronization.
• Strong empathy for players and a drive to create outstanding, intuitive, and accessible user experiences.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to identify, debug, and resolve complex technical issues.
• A highly collaborative mindset, with the ability to effectively give and receive constructive feedback in a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Unreal Engine, including its UI frameworks (UMG) and C++ integration.
• Familiarity with frontend systems, social features, and gameplay-adjacent systems that impact player interaction.
• Experience with UI performance optimization techniques for real-time applications.
• Knowledge of UI/UX design principles and best practices in game development.
• Experience working on large-scale, live-service games or persistent online worlds.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" experience level, combined with the "Senior" title and the complexity of the project (new persistent universe, collaboration with Disney IP), suggests that candidates should possess not just coding skills but also experience in system design, architecture, and potentially mentoring junior developers. Unreal Engine experience is explicitly preferred, making it a significant advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate at least two (2) significant UI feature implementations from past game development projects, showcasing complex HUD elements, menu navigation, or interactive systems.
• Provide code samples (e.g., GitHub repository, private link) that highlight clean, maintainable, and efficient C++ code, with clear explanations of design choices and problem-solving approaches.
• Include case studies or detailed descriptions of UI systems you've designed or significantly contributed to, focusing on architecture, scalability, and performance considerations.
• Showcase experience with integrating UI elements with backend services or gameplay logic, explaining the data flow and interaction patterns.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your process for designing, implementing, and iterating on UI features, from initial concept to final polish.
• Detail your approach to debugging and performance optimization of UI systems, including tools and methodologies used.
• Explain how you collaborate with designers and artists to ensure UI implementation accurately reflects functional and aesthetic goals.
• Articulate your understanding of version control systems (e.g., Perforce, Git) and their role in collaborative game development workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UI Programmer role at Epic Games, a robust portfolio is critical. It needs to go beyond just showcasing finished products; it must demonstrate a deep understanding of the process behind creating high-quality, performant UI systems within a collaborative, iterative game development environment. Emphasis should be placed on C++ code quality, system design, and integration challenges.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UI Programmers in the Research Triangle Park area (Cary, NC), a competitive salary range is estimated to be between $120,000 - $180,000 annually. This range accounts for the "Senior" title, the specific technical skills required (C++ expertise, Unreal Engine), and the high demand for experienced game developers in this specialized field.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: 100% premium coverage for Medical, Dental, and Vision (via Vision HRA) for employees and dependents.
• Financial Security: Long-Term Disability insurance, Life Insurance, and a 401k plan with a competitive employer match.
• Mental Well-being: Robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, offering free therapy and coaching for employees and dependents.
• Work-Life Balance: Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) and sick time, allowing for flexibility and personal time.
• Recognition & Rewards: Company-wide paid breaks, employee events, and a paid sabbatical for 7 years of employment.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility often available as needed for project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for Senior Software Engineers specializing in game development in the Cary, NC area, considering Epic Games' reputation and the specific demands of a UI programming role on a major project. The benefits package is derived directly from the provided text and highlights Epic's commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Video Game Development & Engine Technology. Epic Games is a leader in creating award-winning games and the industry-standard Unreal Engine, powering visually stunning interactive experiences across multiple platforms and industries. Company Size: Over 4,500+ employees globally, with 46 studios across 25 countries. This indicates a large, established company with significant resources and a global presence, yet it maintains a focus on individual impact. Founded: Over 25 years ago. This long history signifies stability, deep experience in the gaming industry, and a proven track record of innovation.

Team Structure:

• The UI Programmer will be part of the "ENGINEERING - GAMES" division, specifically working on a collaborative project with The Walt Disney Company.
• The team is cross-functional, involving close collaboration with designers, artists, backend developers, and potentially leads from both Epic Games and Disney.
• Reporting is likely to a Lead UI Programmer or Engineering Manager within the game development team.

Methodology:

• Epic Games emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and a user-centric approach, as highlighted by their mission to "raise the bar of engine and game development."
• Development processes likely involve agile methodologies, iterative design, and a strong focus on code quality, performance, and scalability, especially given the scale of their projects.
• Emphasis on creating "something truly magical" and "redefining how the world plays and connects" suggests a culture that values creativity, ambition, and pushing technological boundaries.

Company Website: https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/

📝 Enhancement Note: The collaborative nature of this role, involving Disney IP and the Fortnite ecosystem, suggests a dynamic and potentially fast-paced environment. The company culture prioritizes innovation, user experience, and cross-functional teamwork, essential for building complex interactive worlds.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level role, indicating a need for significant technical expertise, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to contribute to architectural decisions. Senior roles often involve mentoring junior team members and taking ownership of complex features or systems. Reporting Structure: The Senior UI Programmer will report to a Lead UI Programmer or Engineering Manager. They will work closely with game designers, artists, and other engineers, implying a highly collaborative and matrixed reporting structure common in game development. Operations Impact: The UI is a critical component of the player experience. This role directly impacts player engagement, satisfaction, and retention by creating intuitive and visually appealing interfaces that facilitate interaction with the game's features and content. Success in this role is measured by the quality, performance, and usability of the UI systems developed, contributing directly to the overall success of the game and its ecosystem.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Unreal Engine's UI systems, C++ optimization, and advanced frontend development for large-scale games.
• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into a Lead UI Programmer, Technical Director, or Engineering Manager role, taking on more responsibility for team direction, architecture, and project management.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Opportunities to learn about game design principles, art pipelines, and backend system integrations, broadening understanding of the full game development lifecycle.
• Project Impact: Contribute to a high-profile, innovative project with significant potential for industry impact and personal recognition.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a pathway to leadership and greater technical influence. Epic Games' focus on innovation suggests that opportunities for learning and growth in cutting-edge technologies are abundant. The collaborative nature also fosters cross-functional skill development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site. The role is based in Cary, North Carolina, suggesting a dedicated office environment designed for collaborative game development. Office Location(s): Cary, North Carolina, United States. This location is part of the Research Triangle Park area, known for its tech industry presence. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with teams working in close proximity. This includes dedicated spaces for design, art, and engineering to facilitate seamless communication and iteration.
• Access to Epic Games' proprietary tools, including Unreal Engine, and potentially specialized UI development software and hardware.
• Opportunities for regular interaction with a diverse team of highly skilled professionals, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning.

Work Schedule: While standard full-time hours (40 hours/week) are expected, the industry often involves periods of intense work ("crunch time") leading up to major milestones or releases. However, Epic Games also promotes "unlimited PTO" and "paid breaks," suggesting an effort to balance demanding development cycles with employee well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles requiring high levels of collaboration and access to specialized development environments. The emphasis on "unlimited PTO" and "paid breaks" indicates a company culture that, while demanding, also values employee well-being and aims to prevent burnout.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and resume. Prepare to articulate your relevant experience concisely.
• Technical Interview(s): Expect one or more in-depth interviews focusing on C++ programming, data structures, algorithms, and game UI development principles. This may include live coding challenges or whiteboard exercises.
• Portfolio Review: Be ready to walk through your portfolio, explaining your contributions, technical challenges, and problem-solving approaches for key UI projects. Focus on demonstrating your C++ skills, system design, and understanding of player experience.
• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meet with potential team members and leads to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with Epic Games' culture.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss your overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight C++ Proficiency: Showcase code samples that demonstrate clean, efficient, and well-documented C++. Focus on complex UI implementations, performance optimizations, and system architecture.
• Demonstrate UI Systems Thinking: Explain the design and architecture of UI systems you've built. Discuss how you handled state management, data binding, event handling, and integration with backend services.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your UI work. For example, improvements in load times, user satisfaction scores, or reduction in player complaints related to UI usability.
• Showcase Collaboration: Be prepared to discuss how you worked with designers and artists, how you translated their vision into functional UI, and how you resolved design or technical disagreements.
• Unreal Engine Focus: If you have Unreal Engine experience, specifically highlight projects built with it, demonstrating familiarity with UMG, Blueprint, and C++ integration within the engine.

Challenge Preparation:

• C++ Fundamentals: Brush up on core C++ concepts, including memory management, templates, STL, and common design patterns.
• Data Structures & Algorithms: Be prepared for questions on common data structures (arrays, lists, trees, hash maps) and algorithms (sorting, searching), and how they apply to UI implementation.
• UI/UX Principles: Understand basic UI/UX principles relevant to games – usability, accessibility, visual hierarchy, and feedback mechanisms.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Practice thinking through hypothetical UI challenges, breaking them down into smaller parts, and articulating your thought process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies that interviewers will probe deeply into your technical decision-making, system design capabilities, and ability to mentor. The portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of these skills. Be ready to defend your technical choices and explain trade-offs.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• C++: The primary programming language. Proficiency in modern C++ (C++11/14/17/20) is expected.
• Unreal Engine: Highly preferred. This includes familiarity with its C++ API, UMG (Unreal Motion Graphics) UI Designer, and Blueprint visual scripting for UI prototyping and integration.
• Version Control Systems: Perforce is commonly used in game development for large codebases; Git is also a possibility.
• Debugging Tools: Visual Studio Debugger, Unreal Engine's built-in debugging tools, and performance profiling tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly specified for this role, understanding how UI impacts player behavior will be key. Familiarity with in-game analytics platforms (e.g., custom solutions, third-party SDKs) that track UI usage and player interaction is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, but understanding how UI features integrate with backend player accounts, progression systems, and in-game economies is crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: C++ and Unreal Engine are the core technical requirements. Proficiency in these is paramount. Experience with debugging and performance profiling tools specific to game development will be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork and cross-functional cooperation is evident, with close partnerships between engineers, designers, and artists.
• Innovation: A drive to "raise the bar" and create "something truly magical" indicates a culture that values pushing boundaries and exploring new technological frontiers.
• User Focus: "Strong empathy for players and a drive to create outstanding user experiences" highlights a commitment to player satisfaction and intuitive design.
• Excellence: The pursuit of "world-class talent" and "award-winning games and engine technology" signifies a dedication to high-quality output and professional achievement.
• Inclusivity: Epic Games explicitly values "diverse teams and an inclusive work culture" and is a proud Equal Opportunity employer.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a highly collaborative environment where ideas are shared openly, and feedback is actively sought and given.
• Communication will be frequent and cross-disciplinary, requiring strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse roles and perspectives.
• A culture of shared ownership and problem-solving, where team members contribute to overcoming challenges together.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of technical excellence, creative ambition, and a strong focus on the end-user (player). The collaborative style suggests an environment where open communication and constructive feedback are integral to the development process.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Technical Complexity: Developing UI for a new, persistent universe with potentially vast amounts of content and player interaction presents significant technical challenges in terms of performance, scalability, and maintainability.
• Cross-Platform Consistency: Ensuring a cohesive and high-quality UI experience across multiple platforms (PC, consoles, mobile) requires meticulous attention to detail and platform-specific optimizations.
• Integration with Diverse IPs: Integrating UI elements that seamlessly fit with characters and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars demands careful design and implementation to maintain brand integrity and player immersion.
• Live Service Demands: If this universe is a live service, the UI will need to support ongoing updates, events, and new feature integrations, requiring flexible and robust system design.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Unreal Engine Mastery: Deepen expertise in Unreal Engine's advanced features, particularly its UI and networking capabilities.
• Cross-IP Integration: Gain experience working with and representing diverse, iconic intellectual properties, understanding the nuances of adapting them into interactive experiences.
• Scalable Systems Design: Develop skills in designing and implementing UI systems that can scale to support millions of concurrent users and a vast array of content.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior programmers, refining leadership and communication skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the ambitious nature of the project. The growth opportunities are significant, offering deep dives into cutting-edge game development technologies and high-profile IP integration.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UI system you designed and implemented. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them? What trade-offs did you make?" (Focus on C++, architecture, performance, and player experience).
• "How do you approach optimizing UI performance in a demanding environment like a game engine? Walk me through your debugging process for UI issues." (Demonstrate technical depth and problem-solving methodology).
• "Imagine you're given a new UI feature request from a designer that seems technically infeasible within the current architecture. How would you handle this conversation and find a solution?" (Showcase collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills).
• "What are your thoughts on the UI for [a specific Disney IP, e.g., Star Wars RPG]? How would you approach designing an interface that respects that IP while being functional for gameplay?" (Assess understanding of IP integration and player empathy).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why do you want to work at Epic Games, and specifically on this Disney collaboration project?" (Show you've researched the company and project).
• "How do you handle constructive criticism on your code or designs from teammates?" (Assess collaboration and receptiveness to feedback).
• "Describe a time you had to work closely with artists or designers who had different priorities than your engineering team. How did you align on a solution?" (Evaluate cross-functional collaboration skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your role and responsibilities on each project.
• Technical Deep Dive: For 1-2 key UI features, explain the technical implementation in C++, including any architectural patterns, performance optimizations, or complex logic. Use code snippets to illustrate your points.
• Problem/Solution: Clearly articulate the challenges you faced (e.g., performance bottlenecks, integration issues, design constraints) and the solutions you implemented.
• Impact: Discuss the outcome of your work. If possible, quantify it (e.g., improved frame rates, reduced loading times, positive player feedback).
• Unreal Engine Focus: If applicable, demonstrate your use of Unreal Engine's UI tools (UMG) and C++ integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared for in-depth technical questions. Your portfolio is your primary tool to showcase practical application of your C++ skills and system design capabilities. Emphasize your problem-solving process and collaborative approach.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UI Programmer position:

• Submit your application through the Epic Games careers portal (https://epicgames.com/careers/jobs/5657912004?gh_jid=5657912004).
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your most impactful UI development projects. Ensure they clearly demonstrate your C++ proficiency, system design for UI, and ideally, experience with game engines like Unreal Engine. Prepare detailed explanations of your role, technical challenges, and solutions.
• Optimize Your Resume: Highlight your C++ experience, game development background, UI programming accomplishments, and any experience with Unreal Engine or similar technologies. Quantify achievements where possible and use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare for Technical Assessments: Review C++ fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, and common game UI patterns. Practice explaining your thought process for problem-solving.
• Research Epic Games & the Project: Understand Epic's culture, their commitment to innovation, and the scope of the Disney IP collaboration. Be ready to articulate why you are a strong fit for their team and this specific role.

⚠️ 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.