ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Game Developer Jobs in Kirkland, WA (NOW HIRING)

All JobsGame Developer JobsEntry Level Game Developer JobsEntry Level Game Developer Jobs in Kirkland, WA

Entry Level Game Developer information

See Kirkland, WA salary details

$37K

$123.3K

$204.7K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game developer in Kirkland, WA is $123,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $141,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
More about Entry Level Game Developer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs in Kirkland, WA?

The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in Kirkland, WA are:

What cities near Kirkland, WA are hiring for Entry Level Game Developer jobs?

Cities near Kirkland, WA 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 Kirkland, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,327 per year, or $59.3 per hour.

Software Engineer I, Game Development (NST)

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

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.

What Nintendo employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply