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Computer Game Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Qualitest Group

Game Engine Developer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Role - Game Engine Developer Location - Redmond, WA (on-site) We're looking for a game engine ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent practical experience. * Familiarity with XR ...

Qualitest Group

Game Engine Developer

Santa Clara, CA

$120K - $130K/yr

Role - Game Engine Developer Location - Redmond, WA (on-site) We're looking for a game engine ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent practical experience. * Familiarity with XR ...

Qualcomm

Director of Game Product Management

San Diego, CA · On-site

$247.40K - $259K/yr

The Director of Game Product Management will play a crucial role in shaping mobile gaming ... Required : • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, Humanities ...

Nexon America Inc

Gameplay Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$125K - $142K/yr

... Ltd., a global video game publisher and leading developer of online virtual worlds for PCs ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering, or equivalent experience * Preference given to ...

Qualcomm

Director of Game Product Management

San Diego, CA · On-site

$196K - $294K/yr

Minimum Qualifications: • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science ... Experience in game technologies in key tech domains, including GPU, CPU, NPU and AI. * Experience ...

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Computer Game Developer information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$107K

$177.6K

How much do computer game developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer game developer in California is $107,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $122,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Computer Game Developer, you need strong programming skills (commonly in C++, C#, or Java), a solid understanding of game design principles, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as version control systems such as Git, is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities help developers stand out when working in teams to bring innovative gaming experiences to life. These skills and qualities are essential for building high-quality, engaging games that meet technical standards and player expectations.

What are some common challenges computer game developers face when working on a new game project?

Computer game developers often face challenges such as balancing creative vision with technical limitations, meeting tight deadlines, and adapting to changing requirements during development. Collaboration is key, as developers work closely with designers, artists, and testers to ensure the game runs smoothly and meets quality standards. Additionally, staying updated with evolving technologies and tools is crucial for delivering engaging and innovative gaming experiences.

What are Computer Game Developers?

Computer Game Developers are professionals who design, create, and maintain video games for computers, consoles, or mobile devices. They may specialize in different areas such as programming, art, design, or testing, working collaboratively to bring a game from concept to release. Their work involves coding, problem-solving, and often using specialized software and game engines. Game developers also troubleshoot bugs and ensure the final product delivers an engaging experience for players.

What is the difference between Computer Game Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectComputer Game DeveloperSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related field; knowledge of game enginesBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; strong programming skills
Work EnvironmentGame studios, entertainment companies, independent projectsTech companies, software firms, various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in gaming and entertainmentBroad, including finance, healthcare, tech, and more
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles require programming skills and a background in computer science, Computer Game Developers focus on creating interactive entertainment using game engines and design principles. Software Engineers have a broader scope, working on various software applications across multiple industries. The key difference lies in the specialization within gaming versus general software development.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Game Developer jobs in California? For Computer Game Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Game Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Game Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Computer Game Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Game Developer job openings:
Computer Game Developer jobs near you
Game Engine Developer

Game Engine Developer

Qualitest Group

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Are you interested in working with the World's leading AI-powered Quality Engineering Company? Ready to advance your career, team up with global thought leaders across industries and make a difference every day? Join us at Qualitest!
We are looking for a Game Engine Developer to join our growing team in Redmond, WA!
Role - Game Engine Developer
Location - Redmond, WA (on-site)
We're looking for a game engine developer to drive engine integration work with a focus on Unreal Engine. You'll work across the stack, from low-level engine code to developer-facing tools, improving the XR development experience on Meta's platforms. This role requires strong independent judgment, the ability to navigate large codebases, and comfort working with AI-first development workflows.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop and maintain game engine integrations for our client's platforms, with primary focus on Unreal Engine.
  • Fix SDK bugs, improve existing features and implement new capabilities within engine developer environments.
  • Build developer tools, workflows, and visualizations that support platform capabilities under development.
  • Prototype and implement demos and use cases that showcase new platform features.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify developer pain points and drive solutions.

Required Skills:
  • 5+ years of professional software development experience, with significant engine-level programming.
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and at least one additional scripting language (C#, Python).
  • Deep experience with Unreal Engine internals and plugin/module development.
  • Solid understanding of 3D graphics and real-time rendering and simulation concepts.
  • Proficiency with AI coding tools (e.g., Cursor, Claude, Copilot) as part of daily development workflow.
  • Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and communicate effectively in a distributed team.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent practical experience.
  • Familiarity with XR SDKs (OpenXR, Meta Quest SDK, or similar).
  • Gameplay development experience, especially with a published portfolio.

Nice to Have:
  • Performance profiling and optimization experience (CPU, GPU, memory).
  • Graphics programming experience (shaders, OpenGL, Vulkan).
  • Experience with additional game engines (Unity, Godot, or similar).
  • Familiarity with MCP or agentic AI developer tool workflows.
  • Proficiency across multiple programming languages.

Why QualiTest?
  • Be a part of a company who strives to support for diversity and inclusion in the workplace - we are one, we are many at Qualitest. Celebrate culture, share knowledge with engineers from around the globe, and inspire each other through our differences.
  • Local and global opportunities - we offer you internal rotation and international mobility opportunities to grow your career.
  • Clear view of your career and progression with the company - Qualitest is growing massively and giving you the opportunity to grow with us.
  • Work hard and play harder with our flexible and casual culture. Take a break from work and join an employee event, or enjoy the amenities and games provided from one of our Employees Centers.
  • Save your earnings and prepare for your future by enrolling in our 401k plan where Qualitest will match your contributions accelerating your savings plan.
  • Take care of health with enrollment into one of our competitive healthcare benefits. Qualitest will match towards your HSA if you choose to participate.
  • Never stop experimenting and learning with Qualitest Tech academy: 3000+ training courses, mentorship programs, technical tribes, sponsored certifications, leadership programs and much more
  • Stay active and get rewarded with our Corporate Wellness Program. We pay your Gym membership and giving you opportunities to Earn additional vacation times for attendance the gym!
  • Salary of $120,000 - $130,000 annually.
  • Earn bonuses via our Client Referral and Employee Referral Program's. Refer and earn - tap your network for net-worth.
  • Planning a vacation? Looking for car insurance? Get access to Qualitest Employee Perks for discounts on anything from travel to electronics. With so many offerings the savings are endless!

Intrigued to find more about us?
  • Visit our website at Careers - Qualitest Group

If you like what you have read, send us your resume and let's start talking!

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