For decades, ChessBase has been synonymous with digital chess, a trusted companion for enthusiasts, trainers, and grandmasters alike. From powerful databases to formidable playing programs like Fritz, their tools have defined how millions interact with the game. More than just software, it`s the digital canvas where strategies are forged, openings mastered, and the intricacies of the royal game explored.
Now, in a move as strategic as a Queen`s Gambit, ChessBase is seeking a visionary Lead Developer to not just maintain their legacy, but to actively shape the future of chess technology. This isn`t merely a coding position; it`s an invitation to take the reins of an iconic platform and guide it through the next era of digital innovation.
The Unique Equation: Code Meets King
What makes this opportunity truly unique is the blend of technical prowess and an undeniable passion for chess. ChessBase isn`t looking for just any seasoned software engineer; they`re searching for a Grandmaster of code with a keen strategic mind for the game itself. While a grandmaster title isn`t a prerequisite, a deep, intuitive understanding of chess – perhaps nurtured through club play, tournament experience, or dedicated training – is paramount. Ideally, this individual has not only used ChessBase products extensively but also harbors clear, innovative ideas for their improvement.
The role demands many years of experience in software development, with a strong emphasis on C++. This individual must thrive on complex technical challenges, possessing the patience to meticulously solve difficult problems for sustainable, long-term solutions. It’s a position of leadership, requiring collaboration with an experienced team while simultaneously charting the technical course for the company`s future.
A Glimpse Behind the Code: The Digital Battlefield
The digital battlefield ChessBase operates on is formidable, built on a robust and evolving tech stack:
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C++: The Beating Heart
At the core of ChessBase`s operations, representing approximately 1.8 million lines of code, lies C++. This is where the Lead Developer will make their primary impact, working with modern C++ and eager to adopt the latest language features. Key projects include ChessBase for Windows, Fritz, the Playchess Client, and various backend and cloud database systems. -
C# / ASP.NET Core: The Web Weave
Powering their extensive web infrastructure, including shops, news portals, the books and video platforms, player statistics, and remote engine capabilities, is C# and ASP.NET Core. SQL and MongoDB databases underpin these robust web services. -
JavaScript / TypeScript / React: The Interactive Frontier
A substantial JavaScript framework, comprising around 200,000 lines of code, drives many of ChessBase`s interactive frontends. This includes replaying games, online play, and database access. Projects like ChessBase Mobile, Fritz & Chesster, PGN replay, and the tactics trainer all benefit from this modern web stack. -
Artificial Intelligence: The Silicon Strategist
And for those who think chess is purely about human intellect, ChessBase reminds us that silicon brains are increasingly important. They`re not just dabbling in AI; they`re actively experimenting with tools like GitHub Copilot Chat and Claude Code to enhance development. The company has a demonstrated openness to creative AI experiments, with a history of innovative, albeit sometimes unpublished, attempts – like the successful AI implementation in Fritz 20. This is a place where creativity and experimentation are not just encouraged, but celebrated.
Beyond the Code: A Culture of Innovation
Beyond the lines of code and complex algorithms lies a company culture that defies typical corporate stereotypes. ChessBase prides itself on an established yet close-knit environment where rigid hierarchies are absent, and decisions are made pragmatically and swiftly. Humor and passion are integral to their problem-solving formula, ensuring that even the most intricate challenges are approached with enthusiasm.
The team is described as highly productive, experienced, and welcoming, ready to integrate a new leader seamlessly. This role comes with substantial freedom for personal ideas, creative experimentation, and a genuine opportunity to assume long-term technical leadership. ChessBase boasts a company culture perpetually curious about new things. As they playfully put it, some members might be “oldschool” in age, but certainly not in thinking or tool choice – outdated technologies are simply not tolerated.
This is an invitation to not just write code, but to write history. For the discerning developer who dreams in C++ and thinks in chess moves, ChessBase offers a truly unparalleled opportunity to be a leading part of a team where work is not only meaningful but inspiring and entertaining every single day. Because as they believe, those who enjoy their work achieve the best results.
