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Computer Game Developer Jobs in Los Angeles, CA (NOW HIRING)

Naughty Dog

Senior Game Designer (Combat)

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$145K - $181K/yr

Work with AI programmers to develop foundational NPC technology and implementing and tuning enemy ... Computer Science degree preferred though not required * Proficient in using game engines and tools ...

HoYoverse

Senior Gameplay Programmer AI [USA]

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are searching for a candidate who is passionate about enhancing developer productivity through ... Bachelor's degree or above, computer science * 7+ years or above experience in game development

Absurd Ventures

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site +1

$165K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As Senior Machine Learning Engineer, you will work alongside gameplay engineers, producers ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or a related field. Plus If

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsComputer Game Developer JobsComputer Game Developer Jobs in Los Angeles, CA

Computer Game Developer information

See Los Angeles, CA salary details

$35K

$116.9K

$194K

How much do computer game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer game developer in Los Angeles, CA is $116,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,800.00 and $133,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 to $100,000. Entry-level developers typically earn less, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or in senior roles can earn over $120,000 annually.

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.

Is a computer game developer a good career?

A computer game developer creates video games and typically requires skills in programming, design, and software tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. The career offers opportunities in creative and technical fields, with demand varying by industry trends and location, and often involves project-based work with deadlines. Job satisfaction depends on personal interest in gaming and technology, and the role may require continuous learning of new programming languages and development techniques.

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 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.

How can I get a job as a computer game developer?

To become a computer game developer, you should gain proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or C#, develop a strong portfolio of game projects, and acquire knowledge of game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine. A relevant degree in computer science, game design, or a related field can also improve your chances, along with experience in 3D modeling, animation, and debugging skills.

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 Los Angeles, CA?

For Computer Game Developer jobs in Los Angeles, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Game Developer jobs in Los Angeles, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Game Developer jobs in Los Angeles, CA are:

Computer Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Game Developer job openings in Los Angeles, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,878 per year, or $56.2 per hour.

Senior Game Designer (Combat)

Naughty Dog

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$145K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Ability to work onsite from our Santa Monica, CA based studio is required.
For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been crafting best-selling, critically acclaimed games that constantly push the boundaries of narrative, gameplay, and technology. Naughty Dog recently released The Last of Us Part II Remastered as well as a current generation remake of The Last of Us Part I for the PS5. We're also proud to say that The Last of Us Part I is now available for the first time on PC.
Naughty Dog games have long been lauded for their evocative, character-driven stories and attention to detail. We are committed to innovation within our games and as such have curated some of the top creative and technically innovative minds in the industry. We welcome diverse candidates and believe that a broad range of cultural and life experiences contribute to the overall well-being and success of the studio and the titles we craft together.
What you will do:
  • Pitch, design, implement, and own enemy NPC archetypes
  • Work with AI programmers to develop foundational NPC technology and implementing and tuning enemy AI behaviors
  • Work with animators to develop enemy locomotion and traversal, melee moves, ambient behaviors, and other custom abilities. Make every enemy archetype feel unique and memorable
  • Collaborate with the Design team to conceptualize, prototype, implement, tune, and balance gameplay mechanics and systems
  • Communicate with animation, programming, and art departments to effectively produce the assets and code support required for the enemies you're owning
  • Write and maintain documentation that establishes the core vision of the enemy archetypes
  • Drive communication and collaboration for enemies you design and the levels they are in, ensuring communication across disciplines and meeting deadlines
  • Effective and respectful communicator and collaborator, both with other designers and members of other departments
  • Facilitate playtesting and feedback sessions to iterate on combat systems and fine-tune them based on player experiences
  • Mentor junior designers and contribute to the overall growth of the design team

What skills you will use:
  • 5+ years of industry experience in combat design and/or technical design for games, specifically focused on developing action-adventure or shooter games
  • At least one shipped title as a combat designer or similar role. Experience with behavior trees or similar NPC AI concepts preferred
  • Strong coding ability: Computer Science degree preferred though not required
  • Proficient in using game engines and tools (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity) for combat implementation and design scripting (C#, Lua, Visual Scripting)
  • Welcomes feedback on their work and embraces the "let's try it" mentality
  • Proficient and effective communication skills, including diagramming and sketching
  • Fluent in modern character action-adventure and shooter combat games. Maintains knowledge of the broader gaming landscape trends
  • Knowledge of narrative structure and how it intersects with gameplay and combat
  • A keen eye for detail in character action games, able to tune gameplay systems to make them feel smooth and impactful
  • Strong leadership and mentoring skills

The estimated USA base pay range for this zone (Los Angeles area) is listed below. This role may be eligible for additional compensation packages that includes annual bonus and other incentive plans.
$145,100-$181,400 USD
Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process personal information to support these checks.
Please refer to our Candidate Privacy Notice for more information about what personal information we collect, how we use it, who we share it with, and your data protection rights.

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