Server Engineer - NBA 2K (Onsite)

Irvine, CAOnsiteFull Time$102,900–$137,200 /yrPosted 4 days ago

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Required skills

server-side development
distributed systems
large-scale computing
efficient databases
high-performance backend services
low latency
stability
C++
object-oriented programming
multithreaded programming

Nice to have

Python
javascript/typescript
Perl
Ruby
database optimization
connection management

Role summary

Visual Concepts is seeking a Server Engineer for its NBA 2K team in Irvine, California. This role focuses on backend and server-side development, involving distributed systems, large-scale computing, and efficient databases to build high-performance services for online gameplay. The engineer will design and optimize systems for scalability, reliability, and fault tolerance, handle millions of concurrent players, and ensure low latency and stability. The position requires 3+ years of professional software development experience, strong C++ proficiency, and familiarity with scripting languages like Python or JavaScript. Experience with SQL databases, multithreaded programming, and online gaming architectures is also valued.

At Visual Concepts, we believe great games are made by diverse and empowered teams with a shared passion for play. As one of the world’s top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to critical acclaim and commercial success. Our teams are independent and ambitious. Our studios in Novato, Irvine, Budapest, Shanghai, Austin, Boise, Seoul and Parksville, Canada are committed to artistry and ground breaking technology, offering top candidates the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the hardest working and most creative minds in the industry.

What We Need:

We’re seeking a Engineer with a passion for server-side development to join the NBA 2K team! In this role, you’ll take ownership across a broad technical landscape- working in distributed systems, large-scale computing, and efficient databases to build high-performance backend services. Your work will play a key role in delivering world-class online experiences that power one of the most popular sports game franchises in the world. This role reports into Lead Director of Programming.

What You Will Do:

Work in the backend architecture and services that support NBA 2K’s online features

Design and optimize distributed systems to ensure scalability, reliability, and fault tolerance

Build and maintain large-scale computing solutions that handle millions of concurrent players

Develop efficient database structures and queries to support high-volume, real-time transactions

Deliver high-performance backend services with a focus on low latency and stability

Partner with engineering and design teams to enable seamless online gameplay experiences.

Who Will Be A Great Fit:

3+ years of professional software development experience, with a strong focus on backend and server-side systems

Strong proficiency in C++ with a solid understanding of object-oriented programming principles

Proficiency in one or more scripting languages such as Python, javascript/typescript, Perl, or Ruby, with a strong preference for Python and javascript

Understanding of distributed and scalable systems

Proven experience with multithreaded programming, driving efficiency and stability across large-scale, real-time environments

Demonstrated ability to research, evaluate, and integrate emerging technologies and trends to enhance team capabilities, platform performance, and product innovation

BS in Computer Science or equivalent experience in large-scale software development

Experience developing secure transaction systems, including virtual currency and account-based features, a strong plus

Skilled in database optimization, including connection management and query performance tuning

Familiarity with online gaming architectures and service design for live, connected player experiences

Working knowledge of SQL databases such as MySQL, PostgresSQL, or similar systems

Video game console development experience is highly beneficial

Love for video games (not just ours!)

The pay range for this position in Irvine, California at the start of employment is expected to be between $102,900 and $137,200 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 employees in regular roles may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, provided that temporary or intern roles will not be eligible for many of these payments or benefits. Details of participation in compensation and benefit plans (if applicable) will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website at www.vcentertainment.com

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