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Contract Game Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ManTech

Wargame Designer

Quantico, VA

$107K - $179K/yr

Incorporate modeling and simulation tools within game design in order to continue advancing the ... Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the ...

ManTech International

Wargame Designer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$107K - $179K/yr

Incorporate modeling and simulation tools within game design in order to continue advancing the ... Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the ...

ManTech International

Wargame Designer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$107K - $179K/yr

Incorporate modeling and simulation tools within game design in order to continue advancing the ... Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the ...

ManTech

Wargame Designer

Quantico, VA

$107K - $179K/yr

Incorporate modeling and simulation tools within game design in order to continue advancing the ... Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the ...

Code Plus Inc

3D Game Developer - XR/VR

Petersburg, VA · On-site

As required by Army contract Citizenship Requirement: U.S. Citizenship In this role, you will ... Work closely with instructional designers, developers, and program stakeholders to ensure solutions ...

Code Plus Inc

3D Game Developer - XR/VR

Petersburg, VA · On-site

As required by Army contract Citizenship Requirement: U.S. Citizenship In this role, you will ... Work closely with instructional designers, developers, and program stakeholders to ensure solutions ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Richmond, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

C2 Technologies

UI/UX Designer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

... games. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver accessible and ... contract constraints. Benefits: At C 2 Technologies, we support our team with a comprehensive ...

C2 Technologies, Inc.

UI/UX Designer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

... games. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver accessible and ... contract constraints. Benefits: At C2 Technologies, we support our team with a comprehensive ...

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All JobsContract Game Designer JobsContract Game Designer Jobs in Virginia

Contract Game Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$46.6K

$154.7K

How much do contract game designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract game designer in Virginia is $147,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $153,700.00 and $153,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract game designer?

A Contract Game Designer is a professional who is hired on a temporary or project basis to create and develop aspects of a video game, such as gameplay mechanics, storylines, levels, and user experiences. Unlike full-time employees, contract game designers typically work for a set period or until a specific part of a project is completed. They may collaborate remotely or on-site with development teams and are often brought in for their specialized skills or experience in certain game genres or platforms.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract game designer?

To thrive as a Contract Game Designer, you need strong proficiency in game design principles, experience with prototyping, and typically a background in game development or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and tools like Photoshop or Blender is often required, along with knowledge of version control systems. Creativity, collaborative communication, and time management are essential soft skills that help you excel in a project-based, client-driven environment. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality, engaging game experiences within tight deadlines while working effectively with diverse teams.

What are the common challenges faced by contract game designers when integrating their work with a studio's existing team?

Contract game designers often face the challenge of quickly adapting to a studio's workflows, tools, and design philosophies. Since contract roles are typically project-based and short-term, building effective communication with full-time staff and understanding ongoing projects can require extra effort. Clear documentation, regular check-ins, and proactive collaboration are key to ensuring that design contributions align with the team's vision and integrate smoothly. Successfully navigating these dynamics helps contract designers deliver impactful work and build strong professional relationships for future opportunities.

What is the difference between Contract Game Designer vs Contract Level Designer?

AspectContract Game DesignerContract Level Designer
Required SkillsGame mechanics, storytelling, gameplay systemsLevel layout, environment design, spatial planning
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with designers, artists, programmersFocuses on level creation within game development teams
Industry UsageCommon in game studios for overall game designSpecialized in designing game levels and environments

Contract Game Designers and Contract Level Designers both work within the game development industry, often collaborating but focusing on different aspects. The former handles overall game mechanics and storytelling, while the latter specializes in designing specific game levels and environments. Both roles require strong creative and technical skills, making them closely related but distinct positions within game development teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Designer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Game Designer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Game Designer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Game Designer job openings:

Contract Game Designer jobs near you

Wargame Designer

Quantico, VA

ManTech
IT Services • 5 - 10K employees

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 246 rated software companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about ManTechexternal

$107K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description & Requirements
Shape the future of defense with MANTECH! Join a team dedicated to safeguarding our nation through advanced tech and innovative solutions. Since 1968, we've been a trusted partner to the Department of Defense, delivering cutting-edge projects that make a real impact. Dive into exciting opportunities in Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics and more. Propel your career forward and be part of something extraordinary. Your journey starts now-protect and innovate with MANTECH!

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented WARGAME DESIGNER to join our team in QUANTICO, VA.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Create custom wargame designs that address specific objectives and research questions to inform service level decision and further development activities.
  • Incorporate modeling and simulation tools within game design in order to continue advancing the customer towards the future wargaming concept.
  • Develop both physical and digital products for wargames to include detailed design documents, rule sets, player guides, maps, tokens and other playing pieces to contribute toward a positive player experience and engagement.
  • Facilitate and adjudicate wargames, ensuring they run smoothly and effectively and meet required objectives.
  • Collaborate effectively with other wargame designers, developers as a part of a wargame design team to include the game director and lead analyst to create an environment that is conducive in achieving the analytical objectives of the game.
  • Provide coordination assistance across various wargaming initiatives as needed to ensure customer satisfaction in every step of the planning process.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree and at least 5 years of wargame design experience. A total of 10 years' experience without a degree.
  • Must be familiar with a wide variety of game mechanics, adjudication methods, and game methodologies.
  • The ability to leverage digital wargaming platforms and simulation tools.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience with planning and accomplishing designer goals and successfully directing others in this work.
  • Proficiency in creating, designing, and delivering professional, aesthetically appealing presentations using Microsoft products (e.g., PowerPoint) for diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience in leveraging digital wargaming platforms and simulation tools and serving as a trusted advisor, capable of immediate contribution within these environments.
  • Prior experience in a military or government contracting environment

Clearance Requirements:

  • Must have a current and active TS/SCI clearance.

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able and willing to perform occasional manual labor and warehouse duties, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.

The projected compensation range for this position is $107,900.00-$179,400.00. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories.  In addition, MANTECH invests in its employees beyond just compensation.  MANTECH's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, short-term and long-term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.

MANTECH considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at careers@mantech.com and provide your name and contact information.

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