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

Socket.dev

Software Engineer I, Game Development (NST)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$94 - $142/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As part of the Nintendo family, we're passionate about creating games designed to surprise and ... Ability to solve engineering problems by applying entry level specialty. * Ability to read and ...

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All JobsGame Designer JobsEntry Level Game Designer JobsEntry Level Game Designer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Entry Level Game Designer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$53.5K

$177.5K

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game designer 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.

Can I get into entry level game design with no experience?

Entry level game design positions often do not require extensive professional experience and may accept candidates with relevant skills such as basic knowledge of game engines like Unity or Unreal, and a portfolio of personal projects or coursework. Building a strong understanding of game development principles, programming, and design tools can improve your chances of entering the field without prior work experience.

What is the difference between Entry Level Game Designer vs Junior Game Developer?

AspectEntry Level Game DesignerJunior Game Developer
Required CredentialsDegree in game design, computer science, or related field; portfolioDegree in computer science, software engineering, or related; coding skills
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, game companies, remoteDevelopment teams, coding environments, collaborative
Industry UsageDesign-focused roles, concept creationProgramming, coding, implementing game features
Common Search IntentEntry level design roles, game design careersStarting coding roles, game development jobs

While both roles are entry-level positions in the game industry, an Entry Level Game Designer primarily focuses on creating game concepts, storylines, and gameplay mechanics. In contrast, a Junior Game Developer emphasizes coding, implementing features, and technical development. Both roles often require related degrees and are part of collaborative game development teams, but they serve different functions within the game creation process.

What does an entry level game designer do?

A game designer is involved in creating the concept, story, and characters of a video game. While lead game designers are experienced professionals with previous experience, entry-level game designer jobs include positions such as level designer, video game artist, or programmer. The duties of an artist involve designing the game's visual elements, while level designers produce the story elements and gameplay mechanics. Programmers use existing game engines or frameworks to translate the artistic vision of their team into a playable game, and programming specialists may even create new game engines from scratch.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level game designer expect to work on during their first year?

As an Entry Level Game Designer, you’ll typically start by assisting senior designers with tasks such as brainstorming game concepts, designing levels, playtesting, and balancing gameplay mechanics. You may also be responsible for documenting design ideas, creating simple prototypes, and providing feedback on game features. Collaboration is key—you’ll work closely with artists, programmers, and producers to bring ideas to life, learn about the development pipeline, and gradually take on more responsibilities as you build experience. This hands-on involvement helps you develop a broad understanding of both creative and technical aspects of game development.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Game Designer, you need a solid understanding of game mechanics, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree or coursework in game design or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Unity or Unreal Engine, basic scripting, and prototyping software is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and an eagerness to learn make candidates stand out in collaborative development environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for contributing to engaging games and integrating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
More about Entry Level Game Designer jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Game Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Designer job openings in Seattle, WA 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 $169,700 per year, or $81.6 per hour.

Software Engineer I, Game Development (NST)

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Nintendo rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 244 rated software companies

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. If this sounds like you, we would love to see your resume!

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.

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