2

Entry Level Game Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Legal Counsel

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$105K - $140K/yr

We work closely with our development studio partners to bring beloved game worlds to players around ... * Entry-level candidates are welcome to apply - prior in-house experience is a plus but not ...

This is an entry level role and great for a recent grad! Game Testers at PlayStation for The Show ... Logging issues for development team review in concise written report formats * Collaborating with ...

Soccer Coach

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... games that promote each child's development while providing a safe and creative learning ... Responsibilities * Entry Level - no prior coaching experience necessary. Training provided.

Coach

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Responsibilities * Entry Level - no prior coaching experience necessary. Training provided ... games that promote each child's development while providing a safe and creative learning ...

Coach

San Jose, CA · On-site

$17.55 - $21/hr

... games that promote each child's development while providing a safe and creative learning ... Responsibilities * Entry Level - no prior coaching experience necessary. Training provided.

Youth Soccer Coach

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.30 - $18.50/hr

... games that promote each child's development while providing a safe and creative learning ... Responsibilities * Entry Level - no prior coaching experience necessary. Training provided.

Coach

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $17/hr

... games that promote each child's development while providing a safe and creative learning ... Responsibilities * Entry Level - no prior coaching experience necessary. Training provided.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Game Development information

See California salary details

$52.4K

$119.5K

$186.7K

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

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game development in California is $119,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $153,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level game development job?

Entry level game development jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the game industry and often require little to no prior professional experience. These roles typically include positions such as junior programmer, QA tester, game artist, or production assistant. Entry-level employees work on small tasks within a larger development team, helping them gain practical skills while contributing to the creation of video games. These jobs often require knowledge of basic programming, art, or design tools, and a passion for gaming.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Game Developer, you need a solid grasp of programming fundamentals, often with a degree in computer science or a related field, and familiarity with game design principles. Proficiency in game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, and knowledge of languages such as C# or C++, are typically required, along with any relevant certifications or portfolio projects. Creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving are essential soft skills that help you collaborate effectively and bring innovative ideas to life. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating engaging games, meeting project goals, and integrating seamlessly into development teams.

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

Entry-level game developers often find adapting to fast-paced production schedules and mastering new tools or engines challenging. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams—including artists, designers, and QA testers—can also be an adjustment. Staying proactive in learning, seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, and communicating openly can help overcome these hurdles. Embracing feedback and focusing on continuous improvement are key strategies for success in the early stages of a game development career.

How much do entry level game developers make?

Entry level game developers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, company size, and individual skills. Knowledge of programming languages like C++ or Unity, along with a portfolio or internship experience, can influence starting salaries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,454 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Software Engineer, Swarm Systems

San Diego, CA • On-site

$90K - $124K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

# Software Engineer, Swarm SystemsFully Remote • Apium - San Diego, CA 92121## OverviewSalary Range$90,000.00 - $124,000.00 Salary## Description**Position Summary**---**Apium Swarm Robotics** (ASR) is revolutionizing swarm autonomy software for air, surface, undersea, and ground vehicles operating across dual-use commercial and defense environments. Our systems are deployed on real platforms, tested in the field, and delivered to customers operating in complex, uncertain, and safety-critical conditions.We do not build research prototypes or slideware. Our software is integrated into real vehicles, tested in the field, and delivered to customers who depend on operational reliability, speed of execution, and mission relevance. We prioritize performance over hype.ASR systems represent the next phase in autonomy: collaborative swarming. These are not like pre-programmed drones for light shows. We are creating real-time cooperative management that lets one operator control dozens to hundreds of vehicles in real-time with the ease of controlling a single vehicle. As such, this role requires comfort with responsibility, ambiguity, and operational accountability.ASR seeks a software engineer to join our software development team. This role targets a developer capable of maintaining and extending the existing code base while developing new features within our primary code base. Development targets include C++ based core swarm processes running on our ground station and onboard drones as well as the ground station Python web services.Unlike almost any other robotics company, ASR’s advanced SITL suite allows developers to work from home, making ours one of the only robotics companies to allow remote work. Travel opportunities for testing and demonstrations will allow you to witness firsthand your contributions as dozens of drones take flight.Position will include the development of new swarming behaviors and communication methodologies as well as the general functionality of the system, working collaboratively within the team.---**Essential Duties and Responsibilities**---* Maintain and extend ASR C++ code base for ground station and drone operations* Development of new swarming algorithms* Modifications and extension of our swarm communications protocol* Collaborate with senior engineers on software architecture and adherence to engineering process standards---**Required Qualifications**---* Development experience with C++* Front end web development using HTML CSS, Java Script* Backend wed development using Python* Android development using Java or Kotlin* Strong grasp and preference for object-oriented development methodologies* Mathematical and/or physics background including familiarity with vector operations* Proficient in coding in C and C++ including the standard template library* Foundational low-level knowledge such as compiler operation and memory management* Experience developing in a Linux environment including use of POSIX and similar libraries* Comfort working independently with limited oversight* Experience with software development processes such as Agile* Experience with aerospace software development processes---**Additional Desired Qualifications**---* BS in Computer Science or related field preferred* Strong in background in Linux* Experience using AI coding assistance tools* Experience in video game development* Experience in Autonomy systems* Experience developing under standard architectural patters such as MVC, MVP, MVVM* Experience with cross platform frameworks such as Flutter, React Native, Xamarin or similar* Previous experience with microcontroller development for targets such as the STM32* Real Time Operating Systems* Embedded Linux including YACTO* Experience using the Pub/Sub architectural pattern* Previous development experience with autonomous systems* Strong mechanical, electrical, or systems troubleshooting skills* U.S. security clearance or ability to obtain one---**Physical Requirements and Working Conditions**---* Must be able to walk, stand, and navigate large indoor and outdoor facilities for extended periods of time.* Ability to lift, carry, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs on a regular basis.* Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in designated areas or when performing specific tasks, in accordance with safety protocols and company policy.* May be required to climb ladders, stoop, kneel, or crouch during inspections, maintenance walk-throughs, or emergency response situations.* Regular exposure to facility operations including noise, dust, temperature fluctuations, and industrial equipment.* Occasional off-hours or weekend work required for emergency facility responses or projects as needed* Requires frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment for documentation, communication, and coordination tasks.---**Background** **Check**This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.**EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure**Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.**E-Verify**The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses. #J-18808-Ljbffr