Principal Engineer

2k· Game Programming - Firaxis
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About this role

Firaxis Games is seeking a motivated Lead Programmer to direct our development team. We're looking for an engineer with a strong foundation in software development who enjoys working on a diverse set of challenging problems. In this role, candidates will serve as a domain expert in Unreal Tech. We need candidates that bring a passion for teaching, sharing and mentoring. Firaxis is a highly collaborative and iterative environment. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to communicate easily and effectively with fellow coders, designers and artists.

What You Will Do

  • Consult with departments to understand project goals and requirements.

  • Provide direction and advice on technical decisions, architecture, and workflow optimization to ensure successful Unreal5 Engine integration

  • Set high standards for code quality, performance, and maintainability

  • Assist team to resolve difficult technical issues and address Unreal Engine-related challenges

  • Design and implement modifications, reorganizations, extensions, and optimizations to existing code base.

  • Actively maintain skill-set and knowledge base by keeping track of the latest innovations from the industry.

  • Lead optimization across several platforms.

Who We Think Will Be A Great Fit

  • 3+ years of engineering experience using Unreal Engine

  • Some leadership capacity

  • A broad knowledge of Unreal's internals

  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and mentoring skills

  • Highly proficient in C++ programming language.

  • Comfortable with multi-threading, templates, and optimizing

  • Strong problem solving and debugging skills.

  • Experience with multiple languages, frameworks and tools a plus.

  • Self-motivated and passionate about games.

  • Good team communication skills, able to translate rough ideas into concrete implementations

As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to ensuring that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform their essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us if you need reasonable accommodation.

The pay range for this position in Maryland  at the start of employment is expected to be between $147,100 and $195,000 per year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program.
Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company’s discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year; paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support;
family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness-related expenses.

Please note that 2K Games and its studios never uses instant messaging apps or personal email accounts to contact prospective employees or conduct interviews and when emailing, only use 2K.com accounts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Principal Engineer position at 2k?
The salary for this Principal Engineer role at 2k is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Principal Engineer position at 2k located?
This Principal Engineer role at 2k is based in Sparks Glencoe, Maryland, United States. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Which team or department does the Principal Engineer at 2k belong to?
This Principal Engineer position is part of the Game Programming - Firaxis department at 2k. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Principal Engineer position at 2k?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to 2k's official application portal hosted on greenhouse where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Principal Engineer job at 2k posted?
This Principal Engineer position at 2k was posted on Oct 20, 2025. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Principal Engineer
2k
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