Netcode / Multiplayer Engineer

Lightfold Games · Atlanta, GA Lightfold is a creator-first entertainment studio bringing fans and creators together to build original worlds across animation, comics, games, and more. We believe great stories come from giving talented people the freedom, ownership, and support to do their best work, then inviting audiences to come along for the ride. Now, we’re building Lightfold Games . Come in on the ground floor, we're hiring to bring our 3D game development and asset production in-house and create a team that can help define not only this game, but what Lightfold Games becomes. These are hybrid positions based in Atlanta, GA (Old Fourth Ward) , with health benefits. We’re looking for collaborative, ambitious people who want the rare opportunity to get in early, help establish how a new studio works, and build something from the beginning. Our first game: building a co-op horde shooter with a stylized look tied to a 2D cartoon. We're hiring the full founding team at once, 11 roles in parallel, so we can move all 3D asset production in-house. As a Netcode / Multiplayer Engineer at Lightfold, you will design, implement, and maintain robust networking systems that power multiplayer game experiences. On a day-to-day basis, you will build and optimize netcode for real-time gameplay, manage client-server communication, and ensure synchronization and latency mitigation across various platforms. You will collaborate closely with gameplay engineers, designers, and artists to integrate multiplayer features, debug complex network issues, and maintain high performance and reliability for online sessions. This is a full-time, on-site role based in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area, requiring regular collaboration with the studio team and participation in playtests and technical reviews. Details Design and implement replication systems for large numbers of concurrent AI enemies Handle player state sync across co-op sessions Diagnose and fix latency issues tied to core gameplay systems (decontamination grid, combat state) Work closely with gameplay programmers so netcode and game feel stay in sync Comfortable in a small, fast-moving studio where you're responsible for your systems from start to finish Qualifications Proven experience shipping networked multiplayer systems (Unreal Engine strongly preferred) Deep understanding of replication, prediction, and lag compensation techniques Strong experience with multiplayer game networking, including client-server architectures, replication, and synchronization. Proficiency in one or more relevant programming languages (such as C++, C#, or similar) and familiarity with modern game engines. Knowledge of networking protocols, latency optimization, bandwidth management, and security considerations for online games. Ability to profile, debug, and optimize networked gameplay systems and tools. Experience working in cross-functional teams, communicating technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent professional experience or game development specific degree. Prior experience shipping or maintaining multiplayer titles is highly beneficial. Interest in animation, comics, or games and enthusiasm for fan-influenced storytelling.