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Entry Level Indie Game Developer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Unitytech

Machine Learning Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site +1

$117K - $152K/yr

We're looking for a Machine Learning Engineer to join our Offline Infrastructure team. This is an ... The top mobile games in the world, the most played PC indie titles, the most innovative console ...

Unitytech

Senior Graphics Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$158K - $195K/yr

As a Senior Graphics Engineer on the Shader Systems team, you will be an integral part of ... The top mobile games in the world, the most played PC indie titles, the most innovative console ...

All JobsIndie Game Developer JobsEntry Level Indie Game Developer JobsEntry Level Indie Game Developer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Entry Level Indie Game Developer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$37K

$123.4K

$204.8K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level indie game developer in Seattle, WA is $123,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Indie Game Developer, you need a solid grasp of programming fundamentals (often in languages like C# or C++), basic game design principles, and a relevant degree or portfolio showcasing your work. Familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine and version control systems like Git is typically expected. Creativity, problem-solving ability, and strong teamwork skills help you contribute to small, collaborative teams and adapt to evolving project requirements. These competencies ensure you can effectively build, iterate, and launch engaging indie games in a competitive industry.

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

Entry level indie game developers often face challenges such as limited resources, tight budgets, and wearing multiple hats within small teams. Balancing creative ambitions with practical constraints can be difficult, especially when managing time between programming, art, sound, and marketing tasks. Effective communication and collaboration with team members, utilizing accessible development tools, and participating in online communities can help overcome these hurdles. Learning to scope projects realistically and seeking feedback early in the process are also essential strategies for success.

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

AspectEntry Level Indie Game DeveloperJunior Game Programmer
Required SkillsBasic programming, game design, creativityProgramming languages, debugging, software tools
Work EnvironmentIndependent projects, small teams, startupsGame studios, development teams, collaborative settings
Industry UsageIndie game development, small studiosGame development companies, larger studios

Both roles often require foundational programming skills and a passion for gaming. An Entry Level Indie Game Developer typically works on personal or small team projects, focusing on creativity and design, while a Junior Game Programmer is more involved in coding, debugging, and technical implementation within a professional studio environment. The roles overlap in skills but differ mainly in scope and work setting.

What is an entry level indie game developer?

Entry level indie game developers are individuals who are new to game development and work within small, independent teams or as solo creators to produce video games. They typically handle a range of tasks, such as programming, designing, art creation, and testing, often learning on the job and wearing multiple hats. Their focus is usually on creative projects with limited budgets, aiming to break into the gaming industry or build a portfolio. Entry level indie developers may release their games on platforms like Steam, itch.io, or mobile app stores. The role is well-suited for those passionate about games, creativity, and self-driven learning.
What are the most commonly searched types of Indie Game Developer jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Indie Game Developer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Indie Game Developer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Entry Level Indie Game Developer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Indie Game Developer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Indie Game Developer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Entry Level Indie Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Indie Game Developer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,443 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 yesterday

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.

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