Hire the Top 3% of Freelance Unreal Engine Developers
Toptal is a marketplace for top Unreal Engine developers and coders. CEOs, CTOs, and management at top companies and startups work with Toptal Unreal Engine freelancers to augment their development teams for Unreal Engine development, app development, web development, and other software development projects to achieve their business needs.
Jerome is a software developer with 25+ years of experience on a wide range of platforms. He currently focuses on TypeScript, React, Redux, Electron, and Node.js, as well as C++ on Unreal Engine 5. Jerome is also researching building custom tools working with large language models using OpenAI and Antrophic.
FX is a senior 3D software developer with a Ph.D. in computer science and 15+ years of experience building interactive applications, including car simulations, video games, and VR experiences. He specializes in Unreal Engine 4 and 5 using Blueprint and C++. FX has mastered Unreal Engine's assets, including replication, UI, behavior trees, profiling, materials, animation blueprints, Control Rig, the Niagara visual effects system, and the Gameplay Ability System (GAS).
Marcin is a highly skilled software engineer with over 10 years of experience in various technologies. His flexibility and adaptability in a work environment are valuable assets in any software project. He is currently focused on C++ and Unreal Engine (UE5). With his extensive experience in delivering UE gameplay features, engine tools, and tech art techniques, Marcin is an excellent fit for roles requiring someone who can provide value immediately.
Vanja is a passionate game developer specializing in Unity and Unreal Engine 4. She is proficient in C# and C++ and has successfully worked on multiple projects as a developer and manager. For the past seven years, Vanja has gained solid experience and extensive knowledge in game design and project management for gaming.
A professional developer for over 13 years, Ricardo focuses on game development, computer graphics, including rendering, computer vision, and VR/AR, artificial intelligence, and client-server systems. He is also an Unreal Engine expert with eight years of experience. Ricardo is passionate about cutting-edge technology, optimizing complex systems, and creating real-time, high-performance software.
Ana is a software engineer with a master's degree in computer science, focusing on game development in Unreal Engine 4. In addition to game development, her previous experience ranges from big data engineering and analytics to DevOps, CI/CD, and team leadership. In Ana, you'll find a perpetually curious lifelong learner eager to jump into new problems, a kind and intentional communicator, comfortable leading and being led, and an enthusiastic collaborator.
Vladimir is a game developer with experience in Unity, Unreal Engine 4, game development, VFX, animation, modeling, marketing, and entrepreneurship—publishing many games. He's worked as a lead engine developer at Ubisoft and has helped create the AR/VR specialization at Toptal.
Ed is a seasoned technical designer and game developer with over a decade of hands-on experience. His expertise includes leading client-based projects and working as a solo developer and a senior lecturer in games education. Ed is proficient in Unreal Engine, Unity, C#, virtual production, as well as 3D asset production and implementation.
Roger is a games industry veteran with over a decade of experience as a software engineer and a leader. He is an expert in C++ and specializes in games using proprietary engines or Unreal Engine. As a person, Roger is inspiring and optimistic, powered by a deeply analytical mind and a firm grasp of the entire product and not just the tech stack. As such, Roger thrives in collaborative environments that include cross-discipline work.
Huda entered the game industry in 2011, gaining experience across multiple genres and platforms. She is proficient in Unity 3D and Unreal Engine and has extensive experience using Git and pipelines with various tools. Huda has strong knowledge and experience in game design, including writing game design documents (GDD).
Mattia is a software engineer dedicated to crafting high-quality code that is functional, efficient, and readable. He has experience in diverse fields, such as autonomous driving, embedded systems, back-end development, and Unreal Engine, with a strong skillset in C++ and Python. Mattia prefers working on Linux and uses Git for version control to ensure seamless software development. His unwavering commitment to excellence sets him apart in the industry.
Unreal Engine developers are experts in creating highly customizable and sophisticated game worlds. This hiring guide defines the essential skills and technologies for an Unreal Engine developer, features tips on writing a job description to attract ideal candidates and offers insights on conducting interviews.
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I am more than pleased with our experience with Toptal. The professional I got to work with was on the phone with me within a couple of hours. I knew after discussing my project with him that he was the candidate I wanted. I hired him immediately and he wasted no time in getting to my project, even going the extra mile by adding some great design elements that enhanced our overall look.
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The developers I was paired with were incredible -- smart, driven, and responsive. It used to be hard to find quality engineers and consultants. Now it isn't.
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Toptal understood our project needs immediately. We were matched with an exceptional freelancer from Argentina who, from Day 1, immersed himself in our industry, blended seamlessly with our team, understood our vision, and produced top-notch results. Toptal makes connecting with superior developers and programmers very easy.
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How to Hire Unreal Engine Developers Through Toptal
1
Talk to One of Our Industry Experts
A Toptal director of engineering will work with you to understand your goals, technical needs, and team dynamics.
2
Work With Hand-Selected Talent
Within days, we'll introduce you to the right Unreal Engine developer for your project. Average time to match is under 24 hours.
3
The Right Fit, Guaranteed
Work with your new Unreal Engine developer for a trial period (pay only if satisfied), ensuring they're the right fit before starting the engagement.
Find Experts With Related Skills
Access a vast pool of skilled developers in our talent network and hire the top 3% within just 48 hours.
How much does it cost to hire an Unreal Engine developer?
The cost associated with hiring an Unreal Engine developer depends on various factors, including preferred talent location, complexity and size of the project you’re hiring for, seniority, engagement commitment (hourly, part-time, or full-time), and more. In the US, for example, Glassdoor’s reported average total annual pay for Unreal Engine developers is $80,000 to $144,000 as of March 2024. With Toptal, you can speak with an expert talent matcher who will help you understand the cost of talent with the right skills and seniority level for your needs. To get started, schedule a call with us — it’s free, and there’s no obligation to hire with Toptal.
How do I hire an Unreal Engine developer?
To hire the right Unreal Engine developer, it’s important to evaluate a candidate’s experience, technical skills, and communication skills. You’ll also want to consider the fit with your particular industry, company, and project. Toptal’s rigorous screening process ensures that every member of our network has excellent experience and skills, and our team will match you with the perfect Unreal Engine developers for your project.
How in demand is Unreal Engine?
Unreal Engine is in high demand across various industries. Initially popularized in gaming, its high-quality rendering and robust features have made Unreal Engine a preferred choice for AAA game creation. Unreal Engine has also gained traction in film, virtual production, architectural visualization, automotive design, and VR/AR applications.
Continuous innovations and broadening use cases ensure that Unreal Engine remains a sought-after skill, with companies actively seeking professionals proficient in this engine for diverse projects.
How quickly can you hire with Toptal?
Typically, you can hire an Unreal Engine developer with Toptal in about 48 hours. For larger teams of talent or Managed Delivery, timelines may vary. Our talent matchers are highly skilled in the same fields they’re matching in—they’re not recruiters or HR reps. They’ll work with you to understand your goals, technical needs, and team dynamics, and match you with ideal candidates from our vetted global talent network.
Once you select your Unreal Engine developer, you’ll have a no-risk trial period to ensure they’re the perfect fit. Our matching process has a 98% trial-to-hire rate, so you can rest assured that you’re getting the best fit every time.
What makes Unreal Engine a powerful tool for game and application development?
Unreal Engine is a cutting-edge game engine that provides developers with a robust tool set for building high-quality games and applications for a variety of platforms. Unreal Engine features advanced technologies such as Nanite and Lumen, which allow for incredible levels of detail and realism in graphics where developers can create immersive environments, realistic physics, and seamless multiplayer experiences.
Unreal Engine is built on C++ and also offers a visual scripting system called Blueprints. With support for PCs and consoles, such as the latest PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo machines, as well as mobile devices, including iOS and Android, Unreal Engine offers a versatile solution for the development of games. Toptal developers are experts in using Unreal Engine to bring visions and AI-controlled nonplayable characters to life. Unreal Engine experts deliver impactful games and simulations with unparalleled performance and visually stunning experiences to challenge players.
How are Toptal Unreal Engine developers different?
At Toptal, we thoroughly screen our Unreal Engine developers to ensure we only match you with the highest caliber of talent. Of the more than 200,000 people who apply to join the Toptal network each year, fewer than 3% make the cut.
In addition to screening for industry-leading expertise, we also assess candidates’ language and interpersonal skills to ensure that you have a smooth working relationship.
When you hire with Toptal, you’ll always work with world-class, custom-matched Unreal Engine developers ready to help you achieve your goals.
Can you hire Unreal Engine developers on an hourly basis or for project-based tasks?
You can hire Unreal Engine developers on an hourly, part-time, or full-time basis. Toptal can also manage the entire project from end-to-end with our Managed Delivery offering. Whether you hire an expert for a full- or part-time position, you’ll have the control and flexibility to scale your team up or down as your needs evolve. Our Unreal Engine developers can fully integrate into your existing team for a seamless working experience.
What is the no-risk trial period for Toptal Unreal Engine developers?
We make sure that each engagement between you and your Unreal Engine developer begins with a trial period of up to two weeks. This means that you have time to confirm the engagement will be successful. If you’re completely satisfied with the results, we’ll bill you for the time and continue the engagement for as long as you’d like. If you’re not completely satisfied, you won’t be billed. From there, we can either part ways, or we can provide you with another expert who may be a better fit and with whom we will begin a second, no-risk trial.
Amer is an accomplished game developer with expertise in Unreal Engine, C++, and Unity3D. His contributions to Bygone Dreams—a renowned AAA title by Prime Time Studio—include the implementation of effects such as physical water simulations and environmental interactions. He holds a master’s degree in information technologies and the Internet of Things from International Burch University.
Demand for Unreal Engine Experts Is Booming Around the World
The gaming industry is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by trailblazing technological advancements and an unending influx of users eager to enter the gaming world. According to the Games Engine Market report from Research and Markets, the global game engine market, which was valued at about $3 billion in 2022, is forecasted to nearly triple to $8.26 billion by 2030.
Unreal Engine has established itself as the dominant force in the gaming industry and has been used in the development of high-profile games, such as Fortnite and The Matrix Awakens. Moreover, its user base is only growing: its total active monthly users rose by 23% in 2022 compared with the previous year, surging at an impressive 40% increase in users in North America. Unreal Engine has even branched out beyond gaming into industries such as virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), film, architecture, automotive, and virtual production.
The surge in demand for Unreal Engine—and consequently, its developers—impacts the hiring process for and availability of qualified candidates. Compounding the challenges in hiring Unreal Engine developers is the platform’s steep learning curve, which necessitates significant and nonnegotiable prerequisites to becoming an Unreal Engine developer: knowledge of C++ programming and 3D modeling, plus an understanding of physics and mathematics.
This guide aims to ease the hiring process for organizations seeking to hire an Unreal Engine developer in this competitive market. We explain how Unreal Engine works, how to identify the appropriate skill set required, and how to best source and evaluate candidates. By following the best practices and strategies presented in this guide, you can streamline the hiring process and secure the ideal talent for your company.
What attributes distinguish quality Unreal Engine Developers from others?
A proficient Unreal Engine developer should have a foundational understanding of the engine’s core features. They must be comfortable navigating the Unreal Editor, have a firm grasp of the visual scripting system (Blueprints), and, ideally, have some experience with C++, which underpins the engine. Basic knowledge of rendering, animation, and AI logic is also expected. Proficiency in importing assets, setting up scenes, and understanding the design pipeline—from concept to playable prototype—are all aspects of this foundational skill set.
Outstanding developers exhibit a deep understanding of performance optimization techniques, enabling them to guarantee that games and applications run smoothly across different platforms, and are well-versed in advanced features, such as complex shader programming, physics simulations, and dynamic lighting.
What are the relevant industry skills of a quality Unreal Engine developer?
Visual scripting – A professional developer uses Blueprints—Unreal Engine’s visual scripting system—for prototyping and creating gameplay elements without needing to write code.
Materials and texturing – Understanding how to create and apply materials and textures is central to rendering realistic scenes.
An understanding of physics and mathematics – A developer’s calculations contribute to the creation of realistic movements and interactions within the game. An aptitude in physics is especially important in simulations and action games.
Level design – Knowledge of level design is crucial for Unreal Engine engineers to create engaging and well-structured game environments.
Virtual and augmented reality – For projects involving virtual or augmented reality, a developer uses specialized skills in VR/AR development. AR superimposes digital information into the real world, enhancing user experiences with interactive and dynamic elements. Unreal Engine has robust support for both VR and AR development, enabling the creation of immersive virtual environments, simulations, and games with realistic user interactions.
Networking and multiplayer logic – For multiplayer games, it is mandatory that an expert developer understand networking concepts and be able to create and optimize synchronized multiplayer experiences.
Optimization techniques – A high-quality Unreal Engine developer optimizes performance, ensuring smooth gameplay even on less powerful systems.
Environmental Query System (EQS) – A highly skilled Unreal Engine developer has mastered EQS, a pivotal AI tool in Unreal Engine. EQS enables AI to make complex decisions based on environmental data for dynamic, intelligent game character behaviors.
Behavior trees (AI tree) – Vital for AI development, an expert Unreal Engine developer implements an AI tree to enhance the realism of character interactions. An AI tree offers a modular approach to crafting sophisticated AI behaviors.
What are the skill requirements for various types of real-world projects?
Single-player shooting games – For engaging, smoothly running single-player experiences, a developer may specialize in game design, optimization skills, and level design.
Multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games – Strong networking, multiplayer logic, and game mechanics optimization skills enable an Unreal Engine developer to manage simultaneous player interactions and server communication in MOBA games.
Virtual reality exploration games – VR developers may focus less on complex gameplay mechanics and more on creating immersive, interactive VR environments through level design inclusive of storytelling.
Educational simulations – To create realistic and engaging educational content that facilitates interactive learning, an Unreal Engine developer relies on their command of physics and mathematics. AR/VR development experience may come in handy for educational simulations or other immersive use cases.
What are the programming languages and common complementary technology skills of a quality Unreal Engine developer?
C++ – This language is the foundation of Unreal Engine. Proficient developers harness C++ to write high-performance code, customize engine components, and create intricate gameplay mechanics. A thorough understanding of C++ elevates gaming development.
Python (optional) – More than just an auxiliary tool, Python finds its place in Unreal Engine primarily for crafting automation scripts and refining editor extensions. Its adaptability makes it a favorite for streamlining processes and improving efficiency.
Unity – For initiatives requiring collaboration on game development projects that involve assets or components developed in both Unity and Unreal Engine, understanding Unity’s workflow, scripting, and asset management allows for easier transition and integration between the two engines.
3D modeling and animation – Mastery of these domains is crucial for a proficient Unreal Engine developer. 3D modeling breathes life into game environments and characters, while animation bestows movement and emotion. This turns static entities into dynamic beings, enriching the visual and interactive elements of a project.
Version control – Familiarity with version control systems like Git is essential to manage code efficiently and to aid in team collaboration. Git’s branching capabilities facilitate experimentation using multiple versions of code with no impact on the codebase.
How can you identify the ideal Unreal Engine Developer for you?
Begin by defining the scope and requirements of your project. This involves understanding the target audience and the complexity, platforms, and scale of the environments or simulations you aim to create. Align the needed industry skills with the requirements of your project.
Unity vs. Unreal Engine Developers
When deciding between hiring an Unreal Engine expert or a Unity developer, it is essential to understand the key differences between the two engines. Typically, Unity is considered to be better suited to small to mid-sized projects due to its ease of use and lower upfront costs. Unreal Engine is the preferred choice for more extensive, AAA-level projects due to its high-performance rendering, advanced features, and the power of C++.
Unity Developers
Unreal Engine Developers
Graphics and rendering
Although Unity can produce high-quality graphics, Unity developers typically use it for mobile and indie game development.
Despite its added complexity, Unreal Engine developers work with it for its high-fidelity graphics that are suitable for AAA game development.
Assets
Unity developers have access to the Unity Asset Store, which is regarded as having a wider selection of assets that are game-ready and functional.
Unreal developers can access the Unreal Engine Marketplace, which has more professional-looking assets and functional plugins available for purchase.
Learning curve
Unity developers will have an easier time getting started, as the Unity game engine is considered more accessible and beginner-friendly.
Unreal developers are more experienced as a whole because Unreal Engine is a more complex game engine and viewed as challenging for beginners.
Community and support
Unity’s developer community is larger than Unreal’s. An active community can be helpful for troubleshooting and learning.
Though smaller, Unreal Engine boasts an active and strong developer community.
Levels of Unreal Engine Expertise
Depending on your project needs, your Unreal Engine developer will fall into one of the following levels of expertise:
Junior
A junior developer has a basic understanding of C++ and Blueprints, fundamental 3D modeling skills, and elementary Unreal Engine skills. Junior developers are a good fit for smaller projects or as supplementary members of a team, especially in teams where a senior developer is available to provide guidance. Junior developers typically have less than two years of experience and cost less to hire than more experienced developers.
Mid-level
Mid-level developers are proficient in C++ and comfortable with Blueprints. They also have some experience with Unreal Engine optimization. Mid-level developers are a great fit for medium-scale projects that demand advanced technical solutions but don’t necessarily need the depth of expertise associated with top-tier specialists. They fuse a commendable skill set with an economically attractive cost. Mid-level developers generally have two to four years of experience.
Senior
Senior-level engineers boast extensive, demonstrable experience in C++ and Blueprints, a strong understanding of physics, and familiarity with advanced optimization techniques. Senior Unreal Engine developers also excel in problem-solving, project management, and mentoring. A senior developer is an essential choice for large-scale and highly complex projects in which performance and attention to intricate details are necessary.
Games with cutting-edge graphics, complex gameplay, or large environments also benefit from a senior developer, as well as games that require a faster development cycle. A senior developer brings in-depth knowledge and ensures the highest quality output, although comes at a higher cost than junior and mid-level developers. Senior-level developers typically have four or more years of experience.
How to Write an Unreal Engine Developer Job Description for Your Project
Once you have defined the scope and requirements of your project and determined the level of expertise appropriate for your project, it is time to create a detailed job post.
When crafting a job description for hiring an Unreal Engine developer, clarity and specificity are key. Start with a clear title. Incorporate job-specific details (e.g., the needed expertise level) into the title. Consider including elements that describe the length of the assignment or the company’s position on remote work. For example, a strong job title might be “Unreal Engine VR/AR Engineer (six-month contract).”
After you nail down the role title, describe the project. Include an overview of the project and its goals. List the required Unreal Engine skills, such as C++ proficiency, extensive experience with Blueprints, 3D modeling, and any relevant complementary skills like Unity or VR development. Indicate what you are looking for in a candidate’s portfolio. Highlight any additional responsibilities, such as team collaboration or mentoring. Lastly, outline the application process and provide contact information.
What are the most important Unreal Engine Developer interview questions?
To get the most out of an interview with an Unreal Engine developer, you’ll need to get the candidate to speak about their experience and proficiencies. Below are interview questions and prompts to help you understand a candidate’s knowledge and approach to Unreal Engine.
Describe the essential game design principles you adhere to.
This question explores the candidate’s overall approach to game design and their thought process during development. Most candidates will focus on a player-centric design, with game mechanics, visuals, and narratives that provide a fulfilling experience; however, there are more specific considerations that developers should think about when designing a game:
Balance and fairness – A well-balanced game is essential to maintain player engagement and prevent frustration. A developer should strive to build a sense of equity into their games by ensuring that challenges are surmountable through player skill, strategy, or both.
Clear feedback loops – Games should provide clear and prompt feedback in response to a player’s actions. Feedback may come in the form of sound effects, visual animations, or changes in the game state. Feedback helps players understand a game’s mechanics and makes the gameplay feel more responsive and rewarding.
Affordances – The incorporation of affordances—self-explanatory features—reduces the need for tutorials. For example, adding flashing lights to a lever lets players know that they are meant to pull it.
Anticipation – Good games give players clues about what’s going to happen next. This can be an enemy telegraphing its next attack or a musical change that precedes a shift in gameplay. Anticipating future events allows players to strategize and make informed decisions.
Describe a complex feature you’ve implemented using Unreal Engine.
The candidate should provide a detailed explanation of the feature, including the tools, techniques, and challenges they encountered in its implementation. Mention of optimization and performance considerations is a plus. The response will give insight into the candidate’s technical skill set and problem-solving approach, as well as communication skills when describing more technical concepts.
What factors should you consider when choosing between Blueprints scripting and C++ programming within Unreal Engine? Share examples where you chose one language over the other.
Although each of the two languages can get you to the finish line, Blueprints should be used for rapid development, while C++ is used in performance-critical sections. The candidate’s response to this question will provide insight into their real-world experience with Blueprints and its advantages and disadvantages compared to C++. The candidate should explain their decision-making process based on relevant scenarios where they used Blueprints for quick iteration and C++ for resource-intensive operations or to access features of the engine not available through Blueprints.
Share an instance when you faced a technical roadblock during game development. How did you overcome it?
The candidate’s answer should describe a systematic approach to problem-solving, showcasing their creativity and adaptability in finding solutions. Describing the solution to a technical roadblock also showcases the candidate’s technical expertise and aptitude for research, learning new skills, and experimenting with different approaches.
In an Unreal Engine project, what steps do you normally take to ensure optimal performance?
This question goes beyond basic coding skills and delves into the candidate’s understanding of how to locate and resolve performance bottlenecks. The candidate should discuss strategies like level-of-detail management, occlusion culling, and efficient shader usage. They should also emphasize the importance of profiling and testing.
What’s a recent game that impressed you and why? How might you incorporate similar elements into your own projects?
A candidate’s response to this question should demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm for game development, showcasing their ability to draw inspiration from successful titles and apply innovative concepts to their own work. They might discuss how their gaming interests influence their understanding of player expectations, game mechanics, and immersive experiences.
Why do companies hire Unreal Engine Developers?
Companies hire Unreal Engine developers to create immersive and high-quality video games, simulations, VR/AR applications, and visualizations. There are a multitude of reasons why businesses choose to use Unreal Engine for game development in today’s market.
Companies and developers gravitate toward Unreal Engine for its high-fidelity graphics, advanced rendering capabilities, and versatile scripting options. Unreal also supports deployment to multiple platforms, enabling developers to deploy their software to PCs, consoles, mobile devices, and VR headsets, all from a single codebase. Unreal Engine is one of the most popular 3D engines available, with an active community and a thriving asset marketplace. An Unreal Engine developer’s expertise in C++, Blueprints, 3D modeling, and optimization techniques is instrumental in bringing innovative and engaging content to life.
Following the principles outlined in this guide to hire the right Unreal Engine talent will help you effectively navigate the complexities of the engine to produce standout games or creative projects in an increasingly competitive market.
The technical content presented in this article was reviewed by Aly Ameen Rizk.
