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Computer Game Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apex Informatics

Computer Vision Engineer V

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$132K - $156K/yr

... engineering, computer science or equivalent relevant experience. • 5+ years of experience ... OpenCV, Eigen, Halide, Game physics and 3D graphics, CODECs, or Communication) • Prior experience ...

Unbroken Studios

Senior Engineer (UI)

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$138K - $172K/yr

Passion for Game UI/UX * Excellent problem-solving, performance analysis and debugging skills * Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science or Engineering Pluses * Experience with ...

Roblox

Senior Software Engineer - Studio Tools

San Mateo, CA

$139K - $183K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, or a similar technical field * 1+ years of experience with C ... Experience in making developer-, engineer- or artist-facing tools, such as game development tooling ...

career

Gesture Games

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$10K/mo

Experience in computer vision, on-device ML, pose or gesture recognition, or mobile game development. * Strong engineering ability across inference pipelines, UX responsiveness, and real-time system ...

Nvidia

CAD Tools Developer

Santa Clara, CA

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... Cadence SKILL or other CAD-level programming experience * System design and hierarchical sub-design

Nvidia

CAD Tools Developer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... Cadence SKILL or other CAD-level programming experience System design and hierarchical sub-design ...

Nvidia Corporation

CAD Tools Developer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... Cadence SKILL or other CAD-level programming experience * System design and hierarchical sub-design

1X

Senior to Staff Gameplay Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$280K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, Robotics, AI, or a related technical field. * Strong proficiency in C++, system programming, and object-oriented ...

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All JobsComputer Game Developer JobsComputer Game Developer Jobs in California

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 Sep 12, 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 is a computer game developer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer game developer?

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 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.

How much do computer game developers get paid?

Computer game developers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and company size, but the median annual wage in the industry is around $80,000. Entry-level developers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000, while experienced developers or those in senior roles can earn over $100,000 annually. Skills in programming languages, game engines, and project management can influence compensation.

Is a computer game developer a good career?

A computer game developer creates video games and typically requires skills in programming, design, and problem-solving, often using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. The career offers opportunities for creativity and growth, with demand driven by the gaming industry's expansion, though it can involve long hours and competitive entry. Success depends on technical proficiency, portfolio quality, and industry knowledge.

What jobs can a computer game developer do?

A computer game developer can work in roles such as game programmer, game designer, level designer, graphics programmer, or quality assurance tester. They often use programming languages like C++ or Python and tools such as Unity or Unreal Engine to create and refine video games across various platforms.

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
Infographic showing various Computer Game Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,050 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Computer Vision Engineer V

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Apex Informatics
IT Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Apex Informaticsexternal

$132K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Top Skill
need solid DSP SW Engineer with recent exp in CV
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science or equivalent relevant experience.
• 5+ years of experience designing and implementing complex real-time systems using C/C++ for embedded processors.
• 5+ years of experience in software development for imaging and CV algorithms or related signal processing fields.
• Solid C/C++ programming and refactoring skills and able to understand and debug heavily threaded code.
Preferred Qualification:
• MS or PhD in EE/CS
• Theoretical knowledge in the field of computer vision, machine learning, and image processing, or ISP sensors.
• Experience with low-level SW optimization at instruction level, loop optimization, vectorization, data organization and caching
• Theoretical knowledge of Audio pipeline and algorithms: capture, render, codecs.
• Experience in development of imaging and CV or related signal processing algorithms (e.g. OpenCV, Eigen, Halide, Game physics and 3D graphics, CODECs, or Communication)
• Prior experience with ARM or Risc-V CPUs, or Tensilica DSP architectures
TOP SKILLS
1. Great in Coding / Know C++ very well. Code efficiently and fast
2. Has long duration of ownership of complex environments - need to have long duration of assignments (1-2 years plus). Previous project experience. Complex algorithm environment. Need to see in resume.
3. Solve challenging problems that arise. Read/investigate/creative solutions. Proposing new algorithms. Need excellent problem solving.
Masters/PHD education helps. Bachelors min

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