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Entry Level Game Design Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Game Design information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$53.5K

$177.5K

How much do entry level game design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game design in Seattle, WA is $169,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $176,400.00 and $176,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level game designer?

Entry level game designers are professionals who assist in the creation and development of video games, usually as part of a larger design team. They often focus on tasks such as designing levels, creating game mechanics, writing documentation, and playtesting. These positions are typically suitable for recent graduates or individuals with limited industry experience who want to start a career in game design. Entry level game designers collaborate closely with artists, programmers, and senior designers to bring ideas to life and improve gameplay. Strong creativity, communication skills, and a passion for gaming are important for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level game designer?

Entry Level Game Designers need a solid understanding of game mechanics, creativity, and basic programming or scripting knowledge, often supported by a degree in game design, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as tools such as Photoshop or Maya, is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help individuals collaborate effectively and adapt to feedback. These skills and qualities are essential for creating engaging gameplay experiences and contributing successfully to multidisciplinary development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level game designers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level game designers often face challenges such as balancing creative ideas with practical limitations like budget, technology, and deadlines. They may also need to adapt quickly to feedback from team members and learn industry-standard tools and workflows. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay open to collaboration, actively seek mentorship from experienced designers, and continuously build technical and communication skills. Embracing constructive criticism and being willing to iterate on designs will help you grow and contribute effectively to the team.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Entry Level Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Entry Level Game Design jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Entry Level Game Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Design job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $169,700 per year, or $81.6 per hour.

Software Engineer I, Game Development (NST)

Socket.dev

Redmond, WA • On-site

$94 - $142/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Nintendo Software Technology Corporation, based in Redmond, Washington , is a wholly owned subsidiary of the world's largest manufacturer and marketer of video games, Nintendo Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may continually improve the quality of the games that we produce. Each person employed at Nintendo Software Technology Corporation is a valued team member and is encouraged to participate in our efforts to create the highest quality games.

Nintendo Software Technology is a tight-knit game development studio located in Redmond, WA. As part of the Nintendo family, we're passionate about creating games designed to surprise and delight our customers.

As a Software Engineer I in Gameplay, you will support key gameplay features. You will also have a passion for games and working collaboratively across different departments to implement gameplay features that will surprise and delight players.

Nintendo is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy and respect for each other.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
  • Assists in developing, writing, testing, debugging and implementing code using the relevant programming languages.
  • Works with other team members to implement game specific code and other features to support game development projects.
  • Applies professional expertise to review, analyze and test products under development as a contributing member of a production team to ensure delivery of Nintendo’s high standard of quality and timeliness.
SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS
  • Understanding of core technologies, toolsets, and common workflows for video game development.
  • Ability to write clear, maintainable, and portable code.
  • Ability to solve engineering problems by applying entry level specialty.
  • Ability to read and debug other engineers' code.
  • Undergraduate degree in Computer Science or related field; or equivalent education and experience.

Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States to be considered. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

This position is hybrid in Redmond, WA. Hybrid positions require regular onsite work following the schedule and guidelines for their division. This position is not open to fully remote status at this time.

This position includes the base pay range listed below, potential for a semi-annual discretionary performance bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off.

This position includes the base pay range listed below, potential for a semi-annual discretionary performance bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off.

Pay Range

$94,495 — $141,743 USD

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