Technical Lead - Games Programming

pixel movement • United Kingdom
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AI Summary

Lead a team of 8 programmers on a high-profile external co-development project for a growing games studio in Manchester. Own technical direction, code quality, and build stability while collaborating with international publishing partners and senior leadership. Requires 7+ years in games industry, shipped UE4/UE5 title, and strong C++, Unreal Engine, and networking skills.

Key Highlights
Founding hire for new Manchester studio hub with team-building authority
Lead 8-person programming team on co-development project with international partners
Own technical direction, code quality, and build stability for multiplayer PC/console titles
Key Responsibilities
Lead a team of 8 programmers on a high-profile external co-development project
Own technical direction, code quality, and build stability for multiplayer PC/console titles
Collaborate with Production and senior leadership on project execution
Work closely with external international partners and publishing stakeholders
Build and scale your own programming team as a founding hire of the Manchester hub
Technical Skills Required
C++ Unreal Engine Networking
Benefits & Perks
UK Relocation Supported
Nice to Have
Experience in contracted development or co-development for external publishers
Background in multiplayer game architecture at scale
Track record of building or scaling engineering teams

Job Description


Technical Lead | Manchester (In-Office/Hybrid)


Location: Manchester (UK Relocation Supported)

Type: Full-time, Permanent

Sector: Games | Multiplayer | PC/Console


About the Studio

A well-established independent games studio with a proven track record shipping high-quality multiplayer PC/console titles with global player bases. Known for their passionate team culture and their commitment to craft, they are now expanding with a brand new studio hub in Manchester. This is a rare ground-floor opportunity to be part of something being built from scratch.


About the Role


This is not a pure management role. The studio wants someone hands-on, technically sharp, and genuinely hungry. You'll step in to lead a team of 8 programmers on a high-profile external co-development project, working with international publishing partners, with an opportunity to work on original IPs. You'll be one of the founding hires of the new hub, with the authority and expectation to build your own programming team around you.


You'll own technical direction, code quality, and build stability while working closely with Production and senior leadership. Regular collaboration with external international partners means client-facing confidence is essential.


High ownership. Real team-building authority. No micromanagement.


What You'll Need

  • 7+ years in the games industry engineering, with experience leading a team on a shipped project
  • At least one shipped UE4/UE5 title, ideally a multiplayer
  • Strong C++, Unreal Engine, networking, and optimisation skills
  • Hands-on technically, while being able to manage and mentor your team
  • Experience collaborating with external co-development partners or international stakeholders
  • Clear communicator, decisive under pressure, pragmatic mindset
  • UK-based with the ability to relocate to or commute to Manchester


Bonus Points For

  • Experience in contracted development or co-development for external publishers
  • Background in multiplayer game architecture at scale
  • A track record of building or scaling engineering teams


A Note on Culture

This studio moves fast, ships smart, and hires people with genuine spark. They want someone who still loves the craft, not someone looking for a comfortable seat. Whether you're a Lead Programmer ready to take the next step up, or a Tech Lead who thrives in a close-knit, ambitious environment, this is worth a conversation.


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