Senior Software Architect

Code Wizards is a 60-person UK games technology company specializing in work-for-hire services for game studios. We deliver cutting-edge technical solutions that power some of the industry's most ambitious gaming projects.

We are seeking an experienced Solutions Architect to design and deliver scalable cloud infrastructure for AAA game studios. This role combines technical leadership, client engagement, and pre-sales support, with a strong focus on AWS and multiplayer gaming platforms.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Solutions Architecture & Technical Leadership

• Design scalable, secure, and cost-efficient cloud architectures for AAA gaming clients
• Translate business requirements into robust technical solutions
• Provide technical leadership and best practices across the project lifecycle
• Produce architecture designs, diagrams, and technical documentation
• Evaluate and recommend appropriate tools, platforms, and services
• Ensure solutions meet performance, scalability, and reliability requirements
• Lead technical discovery sessions, workshops, and client assessments
• Develop and present solution proposals, architectures, and proof-of-concepts
• Act as technical authority during pre-sales engagements
• Collaborate with business development teams on project scoping and estimation
• Build strong relationships with client stakeholders

AWS Migration Acceleration Program (MAP)

• Lead migration assessments, including discovery, portfolio analysis, and business case development
• Define migration strategies aligned with AWS MAP methodology
• Manage the delivery of MAP engagements and ensure compliance with program requirements
• Coordinate with AWS partner teams and track migration progress

Amazon GameLift & Multiplayer Architecture

• Architect and implement GameLift-based multiplayer backends
• Design matchmaking, session management, and scaling strategies
• Integrate GameLift with AWS services (Lambda, DynamoDB, API Gateway, etc.)
• Optimise cost, performance, and multi-region deployments
• Implement monitoring, logging, and observability solutions

Qualifications

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional (required)

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience in solutions architecture or senior technical roles
• Strong background in gaming (preferably AAA or gaming platforms)
• Track record delivering scalable cloud-based solutions
• Experience leading client-facing workshops and pre-sales activities
• Familiarity with AWS MAP processes

Technical Skills

• AWS: EC2, S3, RDS, Lambda, VPC, IAM, CloudFormation/CDK
• GameLift: Fleet management, matchmaking, scaling, cost optimisation
• Infrastructure as Code: Terraform, CloudFormation, AWS CDK
• Game Development: Unreal/Unity basics, backend integration patterns
• Multiplayer Systems: Backend architecture, session management, real-time systems
• Observability: CloudWatch, Prometheus, Grafana, or similar

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Ability to engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capability
• Collaborative, self-driven, and adaptable
• Experience with server-authoritative multiplayer architectures
• Knowledge of gaming security and anti-cheat systems
• Familiarity with LiveOps and analytics platforms
• Database experience (DynamoDB, Aurora, Redis)
• Programming experience (C++, Python, Node.js)

What We Offer

• Work with leading AAA studios on cutting-edge projects
• Collaborative, high-performing team environment
• Exposure to diverse and complex technical challenges
• Professional development and AWS certification support
• Involvement in pre-sales and strategic initiatives

Location

UK-based (hybrid) - Studio locations: Theale (Berkshire) and Elgin (Moray)

Code Wizards is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.