SM

Shawn M. Hayes

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Shawn M. Hayes.

About

Hi, I’m Shawn M. Hayes. I’m a gameplay programmer and software developer with over seven years of experience building robust code and multiplayer features for studios, startups, and indie teams. I’ve led engineering efforts to fix systemic bugs, ship new features within budget, and mentor junior engineers to maintain high-quality code and healthy team dynamics.

I thrive on collaborating across disciplines to create engaging, fun gameplay experiences and to build scalable tech and build pipelines. I enjoy turning ambitious design ideas into solid, repeatable systems that players can enjoy at scale.

  • 9 years' experience
  • Joined July 2025

Industry experience

  • Gaming
  • Software & Internet
  • Education
  • Government
  • Media & Entertainment
  • Professional Services

Work experience· 17 roles

Full Stack Engineer · Presta SportsDec 2024 – Oct 2025 · 11 mos

Led a team of 3 engineers to implement features requested by the CEO, including social media integration, Bluetooth reading/writing, online multiplayer, and real-money transactions. Created a multiplayer VR game for use with stationary bikes (Unity + Meta Quest) and integrated our stack with the Meta Quest companion app. Designed and programmed the Unity client on top of a .NET middleware/backend, including social features like chat, ride posts, and cross-application integrations.

Senior Gameplay Engineer · Dire Wolf DigitalDec 2024 – Oct 2025 · 11 mos

Led a team of engineers to improve game functionality, fix bugs, and deliver regular content updates to boost engagement; released a new game mode that doubled concurrent players and improved Steam reviews to Very Positive; implemented major architectural changes addressing systemic bugs and improving quality of life; contributed to Pokemon Trading Card Game Online with up to 10,000 concurrent users.

Full Stack Engineer · Presta SportsDec 2024 – Oct 2025 · 11 mos

Led a team of 3 engineers to implement features including social media integration, Bluetooth IO, online multiplayer, and real-money transactions; created a multiplayer bicycle VR game for Meta Quest using Unity and a .NET backend; integrated with the Quest companion app; designed and programmed the Unity client on top of middleware.

Senior Gameplay Engineer · Dire Wolf DigitalDec 2024 – Jul 2025 · 8 mos
Full Stack Engineer · Presta SportsDec 2024 – Jul 2025 · 8 mos
Prototyping Engineer · Intuit GamesJan 2024 – Present · 2 yrs 11 mos
Prototyping Engineer · Intuit GamesJan 2024 – Present · 2 yrs 11 mos
Engineering Team-Lead · Dire Wolf DigitalDec 2023 – Oct 2025 · 1 yr 11 mos

Education

B.A. · Boston University2012 – 2016

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