Engine Programmer - Core Tech

Role overview

This position is based in Cambridge, UK and includes flexible working, with most work able to be done remotely. You should already live within a practical commuting range of the office, or be prepared to relocate, so you can attend on-site when needed.

You will join the Game Engine team, which develops and improves RuneTek, the cross-platform engine behind the RuneScape franchise. The work is centered on rendering technology and other core engine systems that support game development and platform capabilities.

As part of this team, you will help deliver complex technical solutions in partnership with production and game development teams, contributing directly to the future of Jagex's game technology.

Key responsibilities

• Improve and support engine technology and shared libraries across the main engine subsystems.
• Write clean, production-ready C++ code that follows team practices and standards.
• Take ownership of moderately complex features from design through delivery.
• Build reliable, scalable systems that can support live games with high availability.
• Find and implement improvements that boost performance and streamline workflows across engine technology.
• Work collaboratively in an agile environment to deliver value for the business and players.
• Assess third-party and internally developed options and help choose the most suitable solution.
• Explore new technologies and turn promising ideas into practical engine enhancements.

Required experience and technical background

• Hands-on experience developing systems in modern C++.
• Exposure to GLSL and scripting languages such as Python for tooling and workflow support.
• Strong ability to profile and optimise CPU, GPU, and memory performance using data-driven decisions.
• Practical knowledge of OpenGL and/or Vulkan, including shader development and debugging in GLSL.
• Experience working with C++ build pipelines; familiarity with CMake would be an advantage.
• Background in test-driven development.
• Java knowledge is helpful but not mandatory.

Benefits

• Private healthcare, including dental cover.
• Discretionary annual performance bonus.
• At least 6% pension contribution.
• Life insurance.
• Enhanced family leave from day one.
• Flexible working hours.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Option to buy or sell holiday days.

About Jagex

Jagex, known as The RuneScape Company, creates long-running community-driven games and online worlds. RuneScape has reached more than 300 million player accounts over 25 years across PC and mobile.

The company is now entering a new phase focused on expanding RuneScape into a wider ecosystem of connected experiences and long-term games, including reduced reliance on monetisation mechanics and the planned launch of RuneScape: DragonWilds into Steam Early Access in 2025.

Headquartered in Cambridge, Jagex brings together creators, engineers, storytellers, and designers with a shared goal of shaping the future of online worlds. The company promotes an inclusive environment built on trust, autonomy, and a strong commitment to quality.

Values and inclusion

Jagex emphasizes collaboration, continuous improvement, honesty, customer focus, and making the most of opportunities. The company offers equal opportunities, considers applicants from all backgrounds, and selects, develops, and promotes people based on merit and ability.

If you need reasonable adjustments during recruitment, you can raise this when you are invited to interview.