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
Key Responsibilities
Technical Skills Required
Benefits & Perks
Nice to Have
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.
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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
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- 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
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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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