Senior Backend Engineer (Unreal Engine)

“This expedition, at least, promises success.” –The Ancestor

Red Hook are the creators of the Darkest Dungeon series, which has grown from crowdfunded beginnings to become gaming’s most iconic strategy gothic horror franchise. Darkest Dungeon and Darkest Dungeon II have combined to sell many millions of copies. Red Hook continues to function as an independent studio under its parent company, Behaviour Interactive, with a mandate to continue creating bold titles featuring significant innovation. We strive to maintain a workplace founded upon creativity, respect, transparency, and accountability.

Reporting to the Technical Director, you will be responsible for implementing and connecting game systems and their multiplayer requirements to backend systems.

Why Join Us?

• Clear Vision & Leadership - Work with experienced leaders who know where the project is going and how to get there. Red Hook is led by the original Darkest Dungeon creators.
• Collaborative Culture - Join a team that respects and elevates each other’s craft, knowing that only through our collective efforts can we achieve success.
• Agency - With the game’s vision clearly defined, our team is trusted with real ownership—working without micromanagement and empowered to shape a game the entire team will be proud of.
• Stability - Red Hook is careful about hiring and firing, seeking to avoid boom and bust cycles. We’re in this for the long game.
• Beautiful Vancouver - Live and work in one of the most desirable cities in the world. Relocation assistance available.

Responsibilities

• Architect, build, and oversee the health of systems in Unreal Engine that interface with the backend.
• Integrate and expand our proprietary backend SDK, utilizing TypeScript and OpenAPI standards.
• Create and maintain online functionality, such as:
  • Matchmaking architecture (covering both server-side and peer-to-peer needs).
  • Systems for persistent player data and account progression.
  • Live service elements including inventory, statistics, and in-game events.
• Partner with UI/UX designers to guarantee fluid data transitions between services and the user interface.
• Coordinate with game systems designers to establish data models and backend logic requirements.
• Identify and resolve full-stack technical hurdles spanning from client to backend.
• Produce internal documentation for technical workflows and complex systems.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in backend engineering.
• Extensive expertise in Unreal Engine (UE5 preferred).
• Strong programming skills in C++ (Unreal Engine environment)
• Experience with backend platforms such as Pragma, Playfab, or proprietary solutions.
• Self-motivated and organized with strong communication skills.
• Proven track record with backend environments including Node.js, TypeScript, or related stacks.
• Direct experience developing features powered by the backend, such as profiles, matchmaking, and player inventories.
• Collaborative and friendly–your ability to work with other team members is crucial to success.
  

Red Hook Studios is an inclusive, respectful, and supportive workplace. We encourage candidates of all identities and backgrounds to apply.