Lead Gameplay Engineer

$170,000 - $195,000/Yr

Nexon America - El Segundo, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - El Segundo, CA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

Nexon America is seeking experienced gameplay engineers to join the Western MapleStory Development team for an exciting new project. The role involves designing, developing, and implementing game features that enhance the MapleStory experience, collaborating closely with game designers, artists, and other engineers to ensure technical excellence. The position supports a hybrid work model, requiring in-office attendance 2-3 times a week.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain core game features for MapleStory, including character abilities, quest systems, and user interface enhancements
• Collaborate with designers, artists, and the Korean dev team to bring creative visions to life within the game's engine
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members
• Respond to technical issues in live service situations
• Optimize game performance and resolve bugs to ensure a seamless player experience
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in software online game development or related field
• Experience as a software engineer in the game industry, online game development, or a related field
• Shipped three or more new game title(s) or experienced live game service over many years
• Management experience of 3 years or more is required
• Bachelor's degree in computer science/engineering, or equivalent experience
• Proficient in C++ language
• Strong understanding of the online game development process and related skillsets
• Understanding of game mechanics and user experience in online games, as well as backend development experience with servers and databases
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work under tight deadlines
• Proven leadership experience and strong expertise in code/tech review

Nice-to-haves

• Passionate about MapleStory, with deep familiarity with its gameplay, history, and community
• Prior experience working on live online games with large user bases
• Experience with scripting languages such as Lua or Python
• Proficient in Korean

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision plans for employees and their families
• Annual employer contribution to a health savings account for high deductible health plan enrollees
• Company paid life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability benefits
• Access to voluntary life and AD&D for employees and dependents
• Flexible spending accounts
• 401(k) savings plan with company match
• Pet insurance
• Monthly wellness credit and lunchtime yoga
• Bi-monthly catered lunches and monthly happy hours
• Well-stocked snack bar
• Paid time off, sick days, company holidays, and a year-end break