Director, AI Engineering (NPC Behavior)

Key Skills

Aartificial intelligence, C++, Design, Effective communication skills, Leadership Skill, Python Programming

Job Description

You will help in crafting the most technologically advanced AAA titles. This is an opportunity to work on cutting edge AI technologies. We’re looking for someone who comes to the table with new ideas, but has the pragmatism required to ship a video game.

As a leader on the project, you’ll help take the studio and our game from great to even better—with a focus on inclusivity, mutual respect (for ourselves and our players), thoughtfulness, empathy, professionalism, and collaboration. 

If you’re a passionate writer and a positive, respectful collaborator who enjoys cross-department communication and creative problem-solving as a part of your workflow, we’d love to talk to you!

You’ll help us by…

• Work with and lead the AI engineering team to craft best-in-class AI technology for our next AAA title.

• Work closely with the design and content teams to bring new AI characters and behaviors to life.

• Contribute ideas for new AI architectures and technologies.

• Design, plan, and implement performant and optimized AI systems.

You’re awesome because you have…

• 10+ years of experience in games, military simulation, or real-time AI.

• Previous experience working as an AI or Gameplay Engineer.

• Worked with AI decision frameworks.

• Strong design sensibilities and outstanding communication skills.

• Excellent debugging and performance analysis skills.

• Strong 3D math and algebra skills as they relate to game programming.

• Strong knowledge of C++ programming and practices.

• Experience leading a team (department lead, strike team lead, feature lead, or any comparable management experience of a small team)

• One or more shipped titles

Bonus points for…

• Use of analytics to guide behavior.

• Networking and Server experience

• Single-player AI systems.

• Working in and extending an established code base.

• Experience with animation technology – blend trees, IK, motion matching.

• Experience with C#.

• Previous experience with scripting languages such as Lua, Python.

• Major recognition in your field of work

• Familiarity with all major RPGs released in the last decade

• Experience in adjacent disciplines such as quest design, environment art, programming, etc.

Not sure you meet all qualifications? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other under-represented groups tend to not apply to jobs when they think they may not meet every qualification, when, in fact, they often do! At Activision, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourage you to apply.

Our World

At Activision, we strive to create the most iconic brands in gaming and entertainment. We’re driven by our mission to deliver unrivaled gaming experiences for the world to enjoy, together. We are home to some of the most beloved entertainment franchises including Call of Duty®, Crash Bandicoot™, Tony Hawk’s™ Pro Skater™, and Guitar Hero®. As a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and products, our “press start” is simple: delight hundreds of millions of players around the world with innovative, fun, thrilling, and engaging entertainment experiences.