Software Engineer (C++)

About the role

Rockstar Games develops large-scale, high-impact entertainment experiences and is seeking an experienced Software Engineer in C++ to join its Core Security team. The role focuses on strengthening the security of the company’s games and services, with an emphasis on defending against cheating, hacking, exploitation, piracy, and tampering.

This is a full-time, in-office position based in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. The work environment is collaborative, inclusive, and centered on building ambitious projects alongside highly skilled teams.

What the Core Security team does

• Protects players, employees, and the business from security threats.
• Develops anti-cheat systems to maintain fair online play.
• Builds anti-piracy protections to safeguard intellectual property.
• Creates anti-tamper solutions to secure sensitive code paths.
• Supports Rockstar titles including Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption.
• Partners with cross-functional teams to improve game security across products.

Key responsibilities

• Design and build new approaches to strengthen products against known vulnerabilities.
• Research, develop, and implement anti-tamper and anti-cheat technologies.
• Troubleshoot exceptions and issues caused by obfuscation and anti-tamper systems.
• Profile protected and unprotected code to ensure performance targets are met.
• Work within the software development lifecycle and integrate with game team workflows.
• Test software solutions across platforms to confirm quality and stability.

Required experience and qualifications

• At least 4 years of experience on a software or security development team using C++.
• Background in security and/or game development.
• Strong debugging ability with C++ and solid problem-solving skills.
• Analytical mindset for measuring performance and memory usage.
• Good communication skills to help translate findings into workable solutions.
• Ability to take goals from concept through execution independently.

Preferred qualifications

The following are useful advantages but are not mandatory:

• Knowledge of reverse engineering techniques and workflows.
• Familiarity with game protection technologies.
• Hands-on experience with IDA Pro or similar disassemblers and decompilers.
• Understanding of cryptography fundamentals.
• Experience working with crash dumps and x64 environments.

Application process

Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter showing how they meet the role requirements. Candidates moving forward will be contacted by a recruiter with the next steps in the hiring process.

Equal opportunity and accommodations

Rockstar Games states its commitment to an inclusive workplace that respects dignity and equal opportunity. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified applicants with disabilities during recruitment, and for employees to support essential job duties. Applicants who need accommodation-related information or assistance should notify their recruiter during the interview process.

For candidates based in Toronto, accommodations will be provided in line with applicable legal obligations, as long as they do not create undue hardship.

The company encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, or other protected characteristics.

Compensation and benefits

The expected starting base pay range for this role in Ontario is CAD 100,000 to CAD 128,500 per year. Final compensation may vary based on location, role-related skills, experience, and other business considerations.

The total reward package may also include a bonus and/or equity awards, along with a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits. Benefit plan details are shared if an offer is extended. Base salary and other discretionary compensation elements may be adjusted over time based on individual performance, team performance, company performance, and market conditions.

Additional information

The company notes that artificial intelligence is not being used to screen candidates. This posting is for an existing vacancy.