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Entry Level Game Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PlayStation Global

Game Test Analyst

San Diego, CA

This is an entry level role and great for a recent grad! Game Testers at SIE are responsible for ... Logging issues for development team review in concise written report formats * Applying knowledge ...

PlayStation Global

Game Test Analyst

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $18/hr

This is an entry level role and great for a recent grad! Game Testers at SIE are responsible for ... Logging issues for development team review in concise written report formats * Applying knowledge ...

Quest International Inc

Be Seen First

OEM Technician I - Entry-Level Electronics Repair Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20 - $24.50/hr

Gaming consoles * Small electronics * Circuit boards * Cables/connectors * Electronic assemblies ... This is not a software development role, business analyst role, IT help desk role, tax/admin role ...

Lil' Kickers of Vacaville

Coach

Vacaville, CA

$20 - $23/hr

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

Lil' Kickers

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.

Lil' Kickers

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.

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All JobsEntry Level Game Development JobsEntry Level Game Development Jobs in California

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 Jun 13, 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 are entry level game development jobs?

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, and why are they important?

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 is the 80/20 rule in game development?

In entry level game development, the 80/20 rule suggests that roughly 80% of the results come from 20% of the efforts, meaning developers should focus on the most impactful features or tasks first. Prioritizing core gameplay mechanics and essential assets helps streamline development and improve efficiency, especially when working with limited resources or tight schedules.

How to get a job in game development with no experience?

Entry level game development roles often require a strong foundation in programming, game design, or related skills. Building a portfolio with personal projects, participating in game jams, and learning popular tools like Unity or Unreal Engine can improve chances. Gaining relevant certifications or taking online courses can also demonstrate commitment and skill to employers.

Is AI replacing game devs?

AI is increasingly used in game development to assist with tasks like procedural content generation and testing, but it does not replace game developers. Entry level game development roles still require creative design, programming skills, and understanding of game engines. AI tools are viewed as complementary, enhancing productivity rather than replacing human developers entirely.

Is 30 too old to start game development?

Entry level game development roles do not have age restrictions, and many successful developers start later in life. Skills in programming, design, and familiarity with tools like Unity or Unreal Engine are more important than age, and continuous learning can help new entrants succeed regardless of when they start.

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.
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:
Entry Level Game Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Development job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,454 per year, or $57.4 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty, 3D Animation

Adjunct Faculty, 3D Animation

Austin Community College

Highland, CA

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago

Austin Community College rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Posting Closing Times: Job postings are removed from advertising at12:00 A.M.on the closing date e.g., at midnight on the day before the closing date.

Austin Community College employees are required to maintain a domicile in the State of Texas while working for the college and throughout the duration of employment. - AR 4.0300.01

If you are a current Austin Community College employee, please click this link to apply through your Workday account.

Austin Community College is a public two-year institution that serves a multicultural population of approximately 41,000 credit students each Fall and Spring semester. We embrace our identity as a community college, as reflected in our mission statement. We promote student success and community development by providing affordable access, through traditional and distance learning modes, to higher education and workforce training, including appropriate applied baccalaureate degrees, in our service area.


As a community college committed to our mission, we seek to recruit and retain a workforce that:

  • Values intellectual curiosity and innovative teaching

  • Is attracted by the college's mission to promote equitable access to educational opportunities

  • Cares about student success and collaborates on strategies to facilitate success for populations including; first generation college students, low-income students, and students from underserved communities.

  • Focused on student academic achievement and postgraduate outcomes

  • Welcomes difference and models respectful interaction with others

  • Engages with the community both within and outside of ACC

Job Posting Title:

Adjunct Faculty, 3D Animation

Job Description Summary:

Responsible to prepare and deliver 3D Animation coursework in engaging, innovative, and discipline-appropriate ways that reflect a commitment to Student success and creating an environment that promotes belonging for all and knowledge of the teaching field. Meets professional standards for faculty in accordance with college policies and procedures.
Instruct students in 3D Animation courses in accordance with College policies and procedures. Job responsibilities include:
training students to fill entry-level industry positions, or to gain access into a 4-year 3D Modeling or Game Development program.
maintain 3D Animation curriculum to meet industry needs.
review and recommend resources to enhance learning environment; and
encourage and inspire student & local interest in 3D Animation.

Job Description:

Principal Responsibilities and Duties

  • Prepare and teach courses in the field of 3D Animationto a multicultural student population based on the department's approved course learning outcomes, utilizing a variety of instructional strategies appropriate to the needs of community college students and the standards of the discipline.

  • Evaluate student progress and provide clear, timely feedback reflecting program learning outcomes and departmental expectations.

  • Provide teaching and mentoring services to students in a manner which does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, political affiliation, or other protected categories.

  • Remain current in the field through a variety of professional development activities.

  • Perform other related tasks as assigned by the department chair, dean, and/or associate vice president, vice president, executive vice president.

  • Serves on college-wide and departmental committees as needed.

Additional Duties

  • Training students to fill entry-level industry positions, or to gain access into a 4-year 3D Modeling or Game Development program.

  • Maintains 3D Animation curriculum to meet industry needs.

  • Reviews and recommends resources to enhance learning environment.

  • Encourages and inspires student & local interest in 3D Animation.

  • Serves on college-wide and departmental committees as needed

Technology

  • Demonstrated proficiency using computer applications, online resources, and other technologies for the classroom. Demonstrated proficiency using an online learning management system such as Blackboard to develop and build course content and perform administrative duties (posting office hours, syllabi, etc.).

  • Demonstrated proficiency using industry-related computer applications (specifically 3D Studio Max or Maya, Photoshop).

Principal Professional Standards

  • Meet deadlines for attendance certification and submission of final course grades.

  • Maintain regular office hours to assist students and improve student retention and success.

  • Recognize and reflect standards of civility and collegiality in all interactions.

  • Comply with published college policies and procedures and meet professional standards for teaching in a community college.

  • Appropriate use of the college's learning management system.

Required Education

  • Associate degree in Game Development or a degree in a related discipline (Game Design; Creative Writing; Film Production; Programming; Studio Art; Animation). Preferred: A Bachelor's degree in 3D Animation, 3D Modeling & Rendering or Video Game Art with strong emphasis in 3D Animation, 3D Modeling & Surfacing; or Fine Art Studio Art.

Required Work Experience (Workforce Programs)

  • In accordance with Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) requirements:Three years of non-teaching, industry-related work experiencewithin the game development industry. SACSCOC requirements may differ depending on the courses taught within the discipline.

Qualities of a Successful Candidate

  • Ethics, integrity, and sound professional judgment.

  • A commitment to establishing and maintaining positive working relationships with students, colleagues, and staff representing multicultural ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

  • Dynamic, non-traditional instructional delivery methods to teach students of widely varying levels of proficiency and from multiculturalbackgrounds and abilities.

  • Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge of the discipline and subject matter.

  • Experience using technology as an instructional aide where appropriate to enhance learning.

  • Documented experience with active and applied teaching and learning methodologies.

  • A strong commitment to teaching in a community college setting, including teaching practices that reflect an understanding of the multicultural classroom andthe benefits of cultural awareness and sensitivity in the classroom and the workplace.

  • Commitment to a multicultural workforce.

  • Ability to communicate effectively with students with a wide range of skills and backgrounds.

  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with varied and multicultural groups from the community as well as students, staff, faculty, and administration.

  • Strength in communication media, both verbal and written, as well as listening.

  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to maintain an established schedule, including evenings and weekends, including possible multiple campus locations that may vary by semester.

  • Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of student information.

  • Understanding of what it means to teach in a community college environment that serves often underprepared and underserved students.

Application Requirements

1. Upload the following documents to your application:

  • Unofficial/copy of transcripts

  • Updated Curriculum Vitae (C.V.) or Resume

  • Cover letter - explaining interest in the position

2. If get selected for the position then please request official electronic transcripts to be sent directly from the institution to hrtranscripts@austincc.edu. This email address must be entered as the recipient. Please do not select "Austin Community College" from a menu. It will not be received by ACC Human Resources. If you need assistance, please contact your university's registrar's office. If official electronic transcripts are not an option, a hardcopy can be mailed to the following address:

ACC Human Resources

Attn: Prisca M. Baker

6101 Highland Campus Dr., Bldg 3000, Suite 3.2224

Austin, TX 78752

Photocopies of transcripts or transcripts stamped "issued to student" are not accepted.

Working Conditions

  • Work is routinely performed in a classroom or laboratory setting.

  • Subject to standing, walking, sitting, and reaching for extended periods of time.

  • Work safely and follow safety rules. Report unsafe working conditions and behavior. Take reasonable and prudent actions to prevent others from engaging in unsafe practices.

Number of Openings:

10

Job Posting Close Date:

August 31, 2026Clery Act

As required by the US Department of Education, employees are required to report violations under Title IX and, under the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), select individuals are required to report crimes. If this position is identified as a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified, trained, and provided resources for reporting.

Austin Community College produces an Annual Security Report as required by the Clery Act. This report includes statistics from the previous three years concerning reported crime that occurred on campus; public property adjacent to and accessible from campus; and in certain non-campus buildings/property owned or controlled by ACC. The report includes institutional policies concerning campus security and other safety information.

For direct access to the current Annual Security Report, visit www.austincc.edu/asr . You may obtain a hard copy by contacting the Clery Compliance Officer ( CleryComplianceOfficer@austincc.edu ). For an overview, see ACC's Clery Act website.

Disclaimer

The above description is an overview of the job. It is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities of the job, nor is it an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Duties and responsibilities may change with business needs. ACC reserves the right to add, change, amend, or delete portions of this job description at any time, with or without notice. Employees may be required to perform other duties as requested, directed, or assigned. In addition, reasonable accommodations may be made by ACC at its discretion to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.

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