SENIOR GAME PROGRAMMER SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS
Published: Apr 08, 2025 – The Senior Game Programmer possesses strong expertise in gameplay programming, high-level 3D math, and system optimization, with proven experience in Unreal Engine 4 and at least one released console title. This role requires advanced proficiency in object-oriented C++, consistently producing efficient, secure code while supporting cross-disciplinary teams. The senior programmer shows a deep passion for games, with the ability to quickly analyze, estimate, and solve complex technical challenges through creative and collaborative approaches.
Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout Senior Game Programmer Resume
- C++
- Unreal Engine
- Unity
- Shader Programming
- AI Programming
- Gameplay Systems Design
- Multithreading
- Networking Protocols
- Physics Simulation
- Performance Optimization
- Problem-Solving
- Communication
- Team Collaboration
- Adaptability
- Time Management
- Creativity
- Critical Thinking
- Leadership
- Attention to Detail
- Conflict Resolution

Summary of Senior Game Programmer Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume
1. BS in Applied Computer Science with 3 years of Experience
- Strong professional programming skills in C++
- Knowledge of threading and async models
- Familiarity with software engineering best practices
- A passion for the gaming industry and creating the best products
- Methodical and systems thinking attitude
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Gaming industry work experience
- An understanding of networking methodologies
- Familiar with working in an agile environment
- Previous experience with test automation
- Able to understand a goal, research, and plan the way to achieve it
2. BS in Digital Entertainment and Game Design with 6 years of Experience
- Game industry experience with 1 shipped title
- Experience with implementing network gameplay, AI, animations, or physics
- Experience working with source control and bug tracking software
- Basic 3D Math knowledge
- Console programming experience (Xbox 360, PS3, Xbox ONE, or PS4)
- Experience with implementing network gameplay, AI, or physics
- Capable of working with and creating game scripting systems
- Strong understanding of the coding process, standards, and methodologies
- Ability to judge feature quality compared to other current competing games
- Excellent analysis, problem solving, and rapid deployment of effective solutions with the ability to prioritize, plan, and organize work
- Effective communicator, both verbally and in writing
- Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and the ability to work in a highly collaborative team environment
3. BS in Computer Science with 7 years of Experience
- Experience as a player character programmer or equivalent.
- Experience with the whole animation pipeline, including experience working with animators and developing tailored animation solutions.
- Software development experience with C++ and object-oriented development.
- Experience working on multiplayer games.
- Experience in the design and implementation of various game systems (AI, Online network, User Interface, etc.)
- Experience applying frameworks related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to product development.
- Excellent user experience and player comfort understanding.
- Understanding of the technical considerations and best practices for Games As A Service.
- A highly self-motivated team player with the ability to dive in, understand code, and learn quickly.
- Strong interpersonal skills and can cooperate with different kinds of people
- Comfortable prototyping and working with an iterative development process
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
4. BS in Software Engineering with 5 years of Experience
- Experience with Unreal Engine 4 C++ programming and Blueprints.
- C++ experience and demonstrated knowledge of good software engineering practices.
- Experience developing multiplayer game/training applications.
- Work experience with mobile platform development (iOS, Android).
- Experience with databases (MySQL, SQLite, spatialite) or xAPI LMS integration
- Experience working with VR development
- Experience working with AR development
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
- Great organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to contribute to innovation in game design.
- Experience working in an open and collaborative environment.
- Able to thrive in a diverse, collaborative team working productively and autonomously
5. BS in Interactive Media with 4 years of Experience
- Experience in the video games industry or a related field
- Experience working in low-level software development
- High proficiency in C++ and STL
- Must have solid 3D Math skills
- Deep understanding of two or more of Artificial Intelligence, Animation, Asset Pipelines, Audio, Gameplay, Graphics, Navigation, Physics/Collision, UI/UX, Virtual Reality.
- Demonstrated ability to ship products (not necessarily a game) - One or more shipped game titles
- Experience working in Unreal Engine
- Strong scripting languages (e.g., Lua, Python)
- Experience working with Virtual Reality systems
- The ability to communicate ideas and document all the work
- Passion for working closely with world-class artists, animators and designers, supporting their developing day-to-day needs for game-play technology and associated tools.
6. BS in Computer Engineering with 6 years of Experience
- Strong talent for programming gameplay and mechanics, with a clear understanding of what makes games feel good
- A good degree or post-graduate qualification, or relevant experience, in Computer Science or a related subject
- Fluency in object-oriented C++ with proficient debugging and documentation abilities
- High-level 3D maths and physics capabilities
- Comprehensive understanding of systems optimisation
- Adept at creating a significant volume of efficient, secure code
- Experience in the games industry with Unreal Engine 4 track record on at least one released console game
- A passion for working closely with world-class artists, animators, and designers, supporting their day-to-day needs for gameplay technology and associated tools
- A highly self-motivated team player with the ability to dive in, understand code, and learn quickly.
- A genuine interest in playing games with the ability to provide time estimates for complex programming tasks.
- A keen eye for analysing design documents for risk and providing creative solutions.
- Have strong documentation skills