Senior AI Programmer - F/M/NB

  • Paris, Montréal
  • Full-Time
  • Start Date: 02 June 2025
  • Apply Now

About

Novaquark is dedicated to bringing people from across the globe together to breathe life into worlds of their own making. Our first game, Dual Universe, grandly showcases the power of next-generation voxels. Players and game makers alike are empowered to let their wildest imaginings soar to create stunning buildings and contraptions, fully-functioning vehicles of every shape and size, and awe-inspiring pieces of art.

We’re just getting started! We are working on several ambitious games that span across multiple genres, that leverage our technology driven mindset. proven engines such as Unreal 5, and industry-standard workflows. With the NQ way we mean that as game makers our collective potential can be brought to new heights leveraging technology. We are looking for talented and passionate people to join our growing team and help us make these forward-thinking games a reality.

With a mix of industry veterans and promising young talents, Novaquark is a place where individual contributions matter above else in an inclusive workplace. We have offices in Paris and Montreal, both in central and easily accessible locations, and the coffee pot is always on. Want to work from home in your favorite fuzzy slippers? No problem: we have a fully flexible work policy. Oh, and did we mention that we like to have fun while we’re at it? We’re making games, after all! Novaquarkians often meet up, in-person and online, to share food, games, and good times. Come as you are! Visit the Novaquark website to learn more. If you like what you see and want to be a part of it, get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.

The NQ Way:

  • We prioritize results rather than seniority.

  • We work from anywhere.

  • We come as we are.

  • We go where no other game has gone: we started with Dual Universe, and we are all game creators, pushing innovation and creativity.

  • We leverage all technologies (Unreal engine, procedural, AI, UGC, data, server, voxel...) because we love, as a team, to do more with the power available at our fingertips.

  • And we believe it is a transmission of the future. Inclusion, innovation, progression. The future will tell us if we are right.

Regarding our company culture and rituals, we host "Weekly Team Games" every Monday. Participation is optional, and it's a great opportunity to play online games with fellow Novaquarkians. We also have a mandatory meeting every three weeks, on Mondays, to discuss the progress of our internal projects.

To keep everyone up-to-date, we regularly dispatch newsletters that cover the latest developments of our project.

In Paris, our office is situated in the 3rd arrondissement, just a stone's throw from the Arts et Métiers metro station, on Beaubourg Street. For those coming to the office, the area offers a diverse array of dining options, catering to all tastes and preferences.

At Novaquark, we are dedicated to fighting discrimination in all its forms and fostering an inclusive environment including those from individuals with disabilities. We welcome applications from all candidates, as we strive to build a team that reflects the rich diversity of our global community.

Job Description

Context

  • Are you passionate about crafting intelligent and dynamic AI systems that react seamlessly to player actions and the game environment?

  • Do you have expertise in Unreal Engine 5, AI navigation, behavior trees, and decision-making systems, along with a strong technical foundation in optimization and debugging?

  • Ready to collaborate with designers, animators, and engineers to build adaptive, immersive AI behaviors that elevate gameplay experiences?

Why do we need a Senior AI Programmer ?

As our studio develops a AAA action-adventure combat game inspired by Indian mythology, we need a Senior AI Programmer to design, refine, and optimize AI systems that bring our world to life. Your role will be crucial in developing responsive AI behaviors, optimizing decision-making frameworks, and ensuring seamless AI integration within Unreal Engine 5.

Your future team

You will join a project with 100 people (Gameplay Programmers, Designers, Artists, etc.) from multiple countries (Europe, Canada, USA...). The team is set to grow in the future!

All techs are supervised by Colin (Lead Tech) and you will work closely with him.

Key information

  • Accepting permanent staff and freelance candidates

  • Availability: ASAP (if available later, do not hesitate to apply!)

  • Location: Paris or Montreal (Full remote possible)

  • Compensation and Benefits (Other country):

    We partner with Deel to facilitate hiring globally, ensuring compliance with local labor laws and providing tailored benefits for each country. This collaboration allows us to offer competitive packages and seamless onboarding for our international team members, enhancing their employment experience no matter where they are located.

    Few links about us

Preferred Experience

Your future impact

  • Advanced AI Development:

    As a Senior AI Gameplay Programmer, you will design and implement sophisticated AI systems, including pathfinding, decision-making, and behavior trees, to create lifelike and challenging NPC interactions.

  • Collaboration & Innovation:

    You will work closely with game designers, animators, and physics programmers to ensure that AI reacts dynamically to player actions and the game world, enhancing immersion and strategic depth.

  • Optimization & Debugging:

    You will be responsible for debugging and optimizing AI performance to ensure smooth, real-time interactions across multiple platforms, maintaining a balance between intelligence and efficiency.

  • Scalability & Integration:

    You will contribute to the seamless integration of AI systems with gameplay mechanics, animation, and physics, ensuring that AI behaviors feel cohesive and responsive.

    Impact Overview:

    • Players will experience lifelike, engaging AI behaviors that enhance combat, exploration, and strategic gameplay.
    • The Game will benefit from optimized, scalable AI systems, making every NPC encounter feel immersive and dynamic.
    • Internal Teams will thrive with your AI expertise, ensuring seamless collaboration between AI, gameplay, and animation teams.
    • By exploring cutting-edge AI techniques, you will drive innovation in AI-driven gameplay experiences at Novaquark.

Recruitment Process

1. First conversation (20 min) by video call with Arthur (Recruiter): To learn more about your experience, your expectations and Novaquark

2. Technical test (30 min) sent 30min before the Technical Interview.

3. Technical interview (45 min) via video call with Vincent (Lead Gameplay Programmer) and Romain (Associate Lead Gameplay Programmer): To assess your technical skills and talk about your test

Throughout the entire recruitment process, Arthur will ensure follow-up and coordination. Do not hesitate to send your portfolio in addition to your CV to showcase your creations!

Additional Information

  • Contract Type: Full-Time
  • Start Date: 02 June 2025
  • Location: Paris, Montréal
  • Experience: > 7 years
  • Possible full remote
  • Salary: between 44000€ and 54000€ / year