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Computer Game Design Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

IDEO

Software Design Director

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Software Design Director, IDEO LLC (Cambridge, MA) Guide and contribute to large-scale ... games, or interactive narratives; 3 years of professional experience applying physics or computer ...

IDEO

Software Design Director

Cambridge, MA · Hybrid

$140K - $200K/yr

Software Design Director, IDEO LLC (Cambridge, MA) Guide and contribute to large-scale ... games, or interactive narratives; 3 years of professional experience applying physics or computer ...

Nvidia

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... Design, development, review, test, and support of high-capacity and high-performance chip design ...

Nvidia Corporation

Physical Design Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$141K - $145K/yr

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... NVIDIA is looking for best-in-class Senior Physical Design Engineers to join our outstanding ...

Nvidia

Physical Design Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$141K - $145K/yr

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... NVIDIA is looking for best-in-class Senior Physical Design Engineers to join our outstanding ...

Nvidia

Senior Physical Design Engineer

Westford, MA

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... NVIDIA is looking for best-in-class Senior Physical Design Engineers to join our outstanding ...

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All JobsComputer Game Design JobsComputer Game Design Jobs in Massachusetts

Computer Game Design information

See Massachusetts salary details

$51.3K

$170.4K

How much do computer game design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer game design in Massachusetts is $162,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $169,300.00 and $169,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Game Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Game Designer, you need strong creative problem-solving skills, a solid understanding of game mechanics, storytelling, and typically a degree in game design or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, and graphic design software, as well as knowledge of scripting languages, is commonly required. Excellent collaboration, communication, and adaptability help designers work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and respond to player feedback. These skills ensure engaging, technically sound, and marketable games that resonate with target audiences.

What is the difference between Computer Game Design vs Computer Game Programming?

AspectComputer Game DesignComputer Game Programming
Primary FocusConcept development, story, gameplay mechanicsWriting code, implementing game features
Required SkillsCreativity, storytelling, user experienceProgramming languages, software development
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, collaborative teamsDevelopment teams, technical environments
Common CertificationsGame design degrees, portfoliosComputer science degrees, coding certifications

Computer Game Design focuses on creating the overall concept, story, and gameplay experience, while Computer Game Programming involves coding and implementing those ideas into a playable game. Both roles often collaborate closely but require different skill sets and educational backgrounds.

What jobs can you get as a game designer?

As a game designer, you can pursue roles such as level designer, gameplay designer, narrative designer, systems designer, or creative director. These positions involve developing game concepts, mechanics, storylines, and user experiences, often requiring skills in design tools, programming, and understanding player engagement. Career progression may lead to senior or lead designer roles, project management, or specialized design positions within the gaming industry.

What is computer game design?

Computer game design is the process of creating the content and rules of a video game, including its story, characters, gameplay mechanics, and user experience. Game designers work collaboratively with artists, programmers, and sound engineers to bring interactive entertainment to life. They conceptualize ideas, develop prototypes, and refine gameplay to ensure the final product is engaging and fun for players. The field combines creativity, technical skills, and an understanding of player psychology to produce compelling gaming experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by computer game designers when working in a collaborative development team?

Computer game designers often encounter challenges such as aligning creative vision with technical constraints, coordinating with programmers and artists, and balancing gameplay mechanics with storytelling. Effective communication is key, as designers must clearly convey ideas and adapt to feedback from different departments. Navigating tight deadlines and rapidly changing project scopes is also common, requiring flexibility and problem-solving skills to ensure the final product meets quality standards and player expectations.

How do you become a computer game designer?

To become a computer game designer, individuals typically earn a bachelor's degree in game design, computer science, or a related field, and develop skills in programming, storytelling, and graphic design. Gaining experience through internships, creating a portfolio of game projects, and proficiency with game development tools like Unity or Unreal Engine are also important steps.

Will AI replace game designers?

AI can assist game designers by automating repetitive tasks and generating content, but it is unlikely to fully replace the creative and strategic aspects of game design. Human designers are essential for storytelling, player experience, and innovative concepts that require intuition and artistic judgment. Therefore, game designers will continue to play a vital role alongside AI tools in the development process.

Is game design math heavy?

Computer game design often involves some math skills, particularly in areas like physics, algorithms, and scripting. However, the level of math required varies depending on the specific role, with some positions focusing more on creativity and storytelling than advanced mathematics. Familiarity with programming tools and game engines can also be important for success in the field.
What are popular job titles related to Computer Game Design jobs in Massachusetts? For Computer Game Design jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Game Design jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Game Design jobs in Massachusetts are:
Computer Game Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Game Design job openings in Massachusetts as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,855 per year, or $78.3 per hour.
DFT Design Engineer

DFT Design Engineer

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

Boxborough, MA • On-site

$126K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING
At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next-generation computing experiences-from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you'll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world's most important challenges-striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond. Together, we advance your career.
THE ROLE:
As a Design-for-Testability (DFT) Engineer at AMD, you will own the full DFT lifecycle-from specification definition through post-silicon bring-up-to ensure robust and efficient test solutions. You will collaborate closely with Architects, Verification Engineers, Physical Designers, CAD Engineers, SoC Design Engineers, Product Engineers, and Program Management to deliver successful and timely project outcomes.
THE PERSON:
As part of AMD's Strategic Silicon Solutions (S3) Business Unit, you will help bring customer-specific design requirements to life across a wide range of products, including tablets, gaming consoles, servers, and more. You thrive in a collaborative team environment, take ownership of tasks through to completion, and communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Implement and verify DFT and Design-for-Debug (DFD) architectures and features.
  • Insert Scan, JTAG, and Boundary Scan chains; generate ATPG patterns.
  • Generate, implement, and verify Memory Built-In Self-Test (BIST) logic.
  • Apply low power DFT techniques to designs.
  • Achieve DFT timing closure and verify ATPG patterns through gate-level simulation with timing.
  • Analyze test coverage and work on reducing test costs.
  • Provide post-silicon support to ensure successful bring-up and improve yield learning.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Strong understanding of Design For Test methodologies and DFT verification (e.g., IEEE1500, JTAG 1149.x, scan, memory BIST).
  • Experience with Tessent TestKompress and Silicon Scan Network (SSN).
  • Proficiency with VCS simulation tools, Perl/Shell scripting, and Verilog RTL design.
  • Exposure to static timing analysis and timing closure processes.
  • Experience in pre-silicon test planning, validation, and engagement with design teams.
  • Skilled in characterization and debugging of scan/ATPG tests in new silicon designs and process technologies.
  • Expertise in optimizing test flows for quality enhancement and cost reduction.
  • Ability to analyze part failures to improve test coverage and yield.
  • Experience analyzing characterization data across process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) corners.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a global team environment.
  • Knowledge of low power design concepts such as clock gating and power gating is a plus.

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

LOCATIONS: Boxborough, MA, Austin, TX, and Markham, ON
This role is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
#LI-LC3
#LI-HYBRID
#LI-Hybrid
Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.
AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants' needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.
AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD's "Responsible AI Policy" is available here.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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