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Entry Level Game Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

3METAD

Character Designer

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$141K - $148K/yr

... game developers, graphic designers, community moderators, front-end developers, and blockchain ... Additional Details Seniority level: Entry level Employment type: Part-time Job function: Design ...

3METAD

Character Artist

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$141K - $148K/yr

... game developers, graphic designers, community moderators, front-end developers, and blockchain ... Additional Details Seniority level: Entry level Employment type: Part-time Job function: Design ...

3METAD

Character Designer

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$141K - $148K/yr

... game developers, graphic designers, community moderators, front-end developers, and blockchain ... Additional Details Seniority level: Entry level Employment type: Part-time Job function: Design ...

3METAD

Character Artist

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$141K - $148K/yr

... game developers, graphic designers, community moderators, front-end developers, and blockchain ... Additional Details Seniority level: Entry level Employment type: Part-time Job function: Design ...

Evolver

GenAI Engineer (Python)

Palo Alto, CA

About Us: We're an innovative tech startup on a mission to change the game in professional services ... Role Overview: We're looking for a motivated Software Developer who's ready to jump into the world ...

Evolver

GenAI Engineer (Python)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

About Us: We're an innovative tech startup on a mission to change the game in professional services ... Role Overview: We're looking for a motivated Software Developer who's ready to jump into the world ...

Panasonic

Software Quality Engineer I - Hybrid

Irvine, CA · On-site

$69K - $115K/yr

... games, Wi-Fi, and now Bluetooth headphone connectivity! How exciting would it be to be a part of ... The Software Quality Assurance Engineer I is an entry-level individual contributor within the ...

Nvidia

GPU Compiler Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

... gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More ... If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want to hear ...

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All JobsGame Developer JobsEntry Level Game Developer JobsEntry Level Game Developer Jobs in California

Entry Level Game Developer information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$107K

$177.6K

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game developer in California is $107,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $122,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level game developer do?

An Entry Level Game Developer assists in the creation and implementation of video games by writing code, debugging, and collaborating with other team members such as artists and designers. They typically work under the supervision of senior developers and are often responsible for smaller features or specific tasks within a larger project. Their work may include programming gameplay mechanics, fixing bugs, and learning new tools and technologies used in game development. This role is an excellent starting point for those looking to gain experience and grow within the gaming industry.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Game Developer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages like C++ or C#, basic game design principles, and typically a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems like Git, and basic graphic or animation tools is highly beneficial. Creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills that help you collaborate and adapt in dynamic development environments. These skills ensure you can efficiently contribute to game projects, meet technical requirements, and work well within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level game developers when working on their first projects?

Entry level game developers often encounter challenges such as balancing creative ideas with technical limitations, adapting to collaborative workflows, and managing tight deadlines. Learning to navigate large codebases, understanding version control systems, and effectively communicating with designers, artists, and senior programmers are key aspects of the role. Overcoming these hurdles requires a willingness to learn, ask questions, and seek feedback from teammates, which helps foster both technical and interpersonal growth within a supportive game development environment.

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

AspectEntry Level Game DeveloperJunior Game Programmer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related fieldBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentGame studios, indie developers, or freelance projectsGame development teams, software companies, or indie studios
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in gaming industry for entry rolesOften used interchangeably with Entry Level Game Developer in job listings
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in a related field and involve working in game development environments. While the titles may differ slightly, they often refer to similar entry-level positions focused on coding, debugging, and supporting game projects. The main difference lies in terminology preference among employers, but both roles serve as starting points for a career in game programming.

More about Entry Level Game Developer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Game Developer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Game Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Game Developer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Game Developer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Game Developer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Game Developer job openings:

Entry Level Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, and 83% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,050 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Character Designer

San Jose, CA • On-site, Remote

3METAD
See more jobs at 3METADexternal

$141K - $148K/yr

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

3D Character & Creature Artist - Remote - Revenue Share 3MetaD is looking for a Digital Artist / 3D Modeler to work on exciting projects for the next-generation gaming and metaverse. Depending on your background, skills, and experience, we will find the most suitable role within our team. Our Orc tribe is a pool of brilliant Orcs from many disciplines, such as 3D artists, concept artists, game developers, graphic designers, community moderators, front-end developers, and blockchain developers worldwide.

We banded together to bring high-quality 3D content to the Metaverse and NFT space and self-publish our collections, games, and items. WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR? You have a few years of work experience working with 3D models. You have projects or a portfolio demonstrating skill in modeling props and environments, with competency in lighting, UV mapping, and texturing abilities utilizing shaders. Sounds like you? Then this job is for you!

OUR VALUES

We get better every day. Our technical abilities should never limit our ideas but guide our attention to the challenge. We question the status quo and do not accept yesterday's answers to tomorrow's challenges. We follow our moral compass; our values guide our decisions. We surround ourselves with people who believe in our mission. We fail, learn, and grow, contributing to the collective wisdom of our profession. WORKING HOURS You are expected to work 18 hours a week, with one day per weekend. The times are flexible and built around your availability and our team's hours.

COMPENSATION

Revenue-based / Percentage-based model: You will receive a percentage of the company's profits, aligning your success with the company's performance. Department Allocation: Your share will be based on your contribution within the marketing department. Commission Structure: Rewards based on sales obtained from projects you contribute to and contribution/output on a per collection/project basis.

Equity We offer company equity as part of our long-term compensation package, providing a stake in the company's success. REQUIREMENTS 2+ years of proficiency in Maya/Blender, with experience in character and creature modeling, creating detailed, textured models, and translating 2D concepts into 3D models. Experience with Photoshop and texturing tools like Substance or Quixel. Knowledge of creating 2D textures, UV unwrapping, and developing materials and shaders for in-game use.

Familiarity with Unreal Engine's blueprints and experience developing game assets and characters. Attention to detail, quality, and art; good file management and communication skills. English proficiency; self-motivated with the ability to work iteratively within a small team. Relevant degree or professional experience, with a portfolio demonstrating previous work. Experience with Unreal or Unity game engines is preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Create optimized low-poly and high-poly 3D models for production. Maintain clear communication, update ticketing systems, and coordinate with team members to meet deadlines. Troubleshoot modeling issues, create high-quality models with clean UVs, and understand low/high poly geometry for baking and LOD creation. Research and assist with PBR textures and materials, and document solutions. Take ownership of tasks, determine project timelines, and contribute concept art and cohesive environment assets.

Work on 3D solid modeling, design theory, and game design principles. Communicate effectively, prioritize workloads, and work independently when needed. We review resumes within two weeks and may assign a small challenge if your profile matches our requirements. Final decisions are made within two weeks after interviews.

Additional Details Seniority level: Entry level Employment type: Part-time Job function: Design, Art/Creative, IT Industry: Computer Games Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at 3METAD by 2x. Get notified about new Character Artist jobs in San Jose, CA .

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