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Engine Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Larian Studios

Engine Programmer

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

Engine Programmer With multiple awards to our name, Larian Studios has proven that we're dedicated to delivering high-quality role-playing games. As we move on to new projects, the studio that ...

Thatgamecompany

Senior Engine Programmer

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

$164K - $200K/yr

Senior Engine Programmer Remote US & Canada only We're looking for an exceptional Senior Engine Programmer to join our live team to help craft the most advanced social game on earth. As an Engine ...

thatgamecompany

Senior Engine Programmer

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$164K - $222K/yr

Senior Engine Programmer Remote US & Canada only We're looking for an exceptional Senior Engine Programmer to join our live team to help craft the most advanced social game on earth. As an Engine ...

Thatgamecompany

Senior Engine Programmer

$164K - $222K/yr

Senior Engine Programmer Remote US & Canada only We're looking for an exceptional Senior Engine Programmer to join our live team to help craft the most advanced social game on earth. As an Engine ...

Thatgamecompany

Senior Engine Programmer

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$164K - $222K/yr

Senior Engine Programmer Remote US & Canada only We're looking for an exceptional Senior Engine Programmer to join our live team to help craft the most advanced social game on earth. As an Engine ...

That Game Company

Senior Engine Programmer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$164K - $200K/yr

As an Engine Programmer at thatgamecompany, you will be a highly valued member of a world-class Engine and Game Development team for an unannounced game. For the right candidate, there are ample ...

Studio Wildcard

Sr. Engine Programmer

Bellevue, WA · Remote

Survival Evolved - Sr. Engine Programmer - Seattle, WA Studio Wildcard, creators of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival Evolved, was founded in 2014 by industry veterans Jeremy Stieglitz and Jesse ...

Studio Wildcard

Sr. Engine Programmer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Survival Evolved - Sr. Engine Programmer - Seattle, WA Studio Wildcard, creators of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival Evolved, was founded in 2014 by industry veterans Jeremy Stieglitz and Jesse ...

Studio Wildcard

Sr. Engine Programmer

Bellevue, WA

Survival Evolved - Sr. Engine Programmer - Seattle, WA Studio Wildcard, creators of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival Evolved, was founded in 2014 by industry veterans Jeremy Stieglitz and Jesse ...

Rockstar Games

Engine Programmer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Rockstar Games is on the lookout for a passionate Engine Programmer with a keen interest in all the low-level technology that makes a modern video game tick. If you like to understand how things ...

Bitwise Alchemy LLC

Senior Engine Programmer

TX · Remote

We are looking for a Senior Engine Programmer to work with us on exciting initiatives with major industry partners. Unlike traditional studios, we offer a unique way to leverage your game development ...

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 developer to drive engine integration work with a focus on Unreal Engine. You'll work across the stack ...

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How much do engine programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for engine programmer in the United States is $39.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engine Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engine Programmer, you need strong proficiency in C++ programming, computer graphics, algorithms, and mathematics, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with game engines (such as Unreal or Unity), version control systems, and graphics APIs like DirectX or OpenGL is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for tackling complex technical challenges and collaborating with other developers. These skills ensure the development of efficient, high-quality game engines that support innovative gameplay and performance.

How does an engine programmer typically collaborate with other departments, such as graphics and gameplay teams, during development?

Engine programmers frequently work closely with both graphics and gameplay teams to ensure that the underlying technology supports creative and performance goals. This involves regular meetings to discuss feature requirements, debugging sessions to resolve integration issues, and ongoing feedback loops to optimize engine components for specific project needs. Clear communication and a collaborative mindset are essential, as engine programmers often translate high-level design or visual ideas into efficient, maintainable code. This cross-functional teamwork is key to delivering smooth, visually impressive, and responsive gameplay experiences.

What are engine programmers?

Engine programmers are specialized software developers who design, build, and maintain the core systems that power video games and other interactive applications. They work on the underlying technology, known as the 'game engine,' enabling graphics rendering, physics, audio, and other essential features. Engine programmers often optimize performance, ensure cross-platform compatibility, and collaborate closely with other developers to create smooth and immersive experiences. Their work is crucial for enabling artists and game designers to bring their creative visions to life efficiently.

What is the difference between Engine Programmer vs Graphics Programmer?

AspectEngine ProgrammerGraphics Programmer
Primary FocusDeveloping and maintaining game engine systemsCreating and optimizing rendering techniques and visual effects
Required SkillsProgramming, systems architecture, physics, AIGraphics APIs, shader programming, rendering algorithms
Work EnvironmentGame studios, software companiesGame studios, visual effects companies
Common UsageUsed across various game genres for core systemsFocused on visual fidelity and rendering performance

Engine Programmers develop the core systems that power a game, while Graphics Programmers focus on visual rendering and effects. Both roles require strong programming skills and often overlap, but they specialize in different aspects of game development.

More about Engine Programmer jobs
What states have the most Engine Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Engine Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Engine Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Engine Programmer jobs are:
Engine Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engine Programmer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Engine Programmer

Larian Studios

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Engine Programmer

With multiple awards to our name, Larian Studios has proven that we're dedicated to delivering high-quality role-playing games. As we move on to new projects, the studio that brought you Baldur's Gate 3 & Divinity: Original Sin 2 is looking for an Engine Programmer to join the team and help us in crafting the high calibre games our fans have come to expect.

Responsibilities
  • Work on all aspects of engine development, notably, animation-related systems
  • Write performant, robust and maintainable code
  • Debug, profile and optimise code to hit quality and performance targets
  • Contribute to code reviews, testing and documentation
  • Show strong passion for making the highest quality state-of-the-art games
  • Be an active participant in the design and production of the engine, as well as tools or gameplay systems.
  • Mentor and support team members
Requirements
  • Proficiency in C++
  • Open-minded, willing to collaborate, experiment and iterate over a specific feature
  • Upper-intermediate English
  • Passion for making and playing great games
  • Experience with data-driven development
  • Experience with a wide range of CPU and GPU profiling tools
  • Multithreading should be second nature
  • Knowledge of modern hardware
  • This is a full-time, on-site role, requiring your presence in the office to support collaboration and creativity
Nice to have
  • 3+ years of game development experience
  • Bachelor's / Master's degree in computer science or software engineering
  • Experience with modern graphics API's (Vulkan, D3D12, GNM,...)
  • Experience with modern console development (PS4/5, Xbox One/Series, Switch 1/2...)
  • Experience with SIMD programming
  • Experience with low-level x86/ARM/DXBC/Spir-V assembly
  • Experience with networking / multiplayer
  • Track record of major contributions to shipped games
What We Offer
  • An international team of over 500 employees spread across 7 studios around the world, each of which have their own unique qualities, and maintain a small-studio feel
  • An open, collaborative environment where ideas are welcome and encouraged
  • A managerial team consisting of highly experienced game developers at the top of their fields
  • Sharing hobbies and passions with like-minded colleagues
  • Inclusive environment with many activities organized by the studios or the employees
  • Commitment to making the best game possible for the fans, including listening to community feedback

Apply