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Full Time Game Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Templar Media

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$125K - $139K/yr

As an independent developer and publisher, Templar develops the games that we want, on our own ... This position is full-time onsite/remote at our studio in Alpharetta, GA.

31ST UNION

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$108K - $161K/yr

WE ARE GAME MAKERS Who we are: We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

31ST UNION

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$108K - $161K/yr

WE ARE GAME MAKERS Who we are: We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

Intrepid Studios

Gameplay Programmer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$136K - $151K/yr

Work with game designers, artists, and other engineers to create compelling experiences * Break ... All posted positions are on-site, full-time, with generous medical benefits options, paid sick ...

Intrepid Studios

Gameplay Programmer

San Diego, CA

$136K - $151K/yr

Work with game designers, artists, and other engineers to create compelling experiences * Break ... All posted positions are on-site, full-time, with generous medical benefits options, paid sick ...

2K

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

2K

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

2K

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

Cloud Chamber

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

2K

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

Cloud Chamber

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

2K

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. Identify ... Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including ...

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Full Time Game Developer information

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$32.5K

$108.5K

$180K

How much do full time game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time game developer in the United States is $108,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time game developer?

Full time game developers are professionals who create video games as their primary occupation, typically working for a game studio or development company. Their responsibilities may include designing gameplay, coding, creating art assets, testing, and debugging games. Full time game developers often collaborate with other team members such as artists, designers, and producers to bring a game from concept to release. They usually work standard business hours, but may also put in overtime during critical stages of development. This career requires technical skills, creativity, and a passion for gaming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time game developer?

To thrive as a Full Time Game Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C++ or C#, a solid understanding of computer graphics, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, and familiarity with version control systems like Git, are essential technical qualifications. Creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently building engaging, high-quality games and collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary development teams.

What are some common challenges full time game developers face when working on large-scale projects?

Full time game developers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with cross-functional teams, managing shifting priorities, and resolving technical issues that arise during development. Balancing creative vision with project deadlines can be demanding, and adapting to frequent feedback from stakeholders requires flexibility. Additionally, integrating new technologies and optimizing game performance for various platforms are ongoing tasks that require collaboration and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Full Time Game Developer vs Part Time Game Developer?

AspectFull Time Game DeveloperPart Time Game Developer
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekLess than 20 hours per week
Employment StatusFull-time employment with benefitsPart-time, often without benefits
Project InvolvementLong-term projects, consistent team collaborationShort-term or freelance projects, flexible schedule
Required CredentialsDegree in Computer Science, Game Design, or related fieldSimilar credentials, but often more flexible or self-taught

Full Time Game Developers work regular hours, often with benefits, focusing on long-term projects within a team environment. Part Time Game Developers have flexible schedules, may work on short-term projects, and often do not receive benefits. The roles share similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in hours, employment status, and project scope.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Game Developer jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time Game Developer job openings:

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

The most popular types of Game Developer jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Game Developer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Game Developer jobs include:

Full Time Game Developer jobs near you

Lead Engineer, Game Systems

Absurd Ventures

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$170K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Summary
We are seeking a highly experienced and collaborative Lead Engineer, Game Systems to help drive the design, architecture, and implementation of core gameplay, progression, and economy systems. As Lead Engineer, Game Systems, you are passionate about developing scalable, performant, and engaging systems that empower designers and enhance the player experience. Direct a team of gameplay engineers and work closely with design, production, and other engineering teams to bring a rich, responsive, and immersive world to life.
Core Responsibilities
  • Lead the architecture, development, and maintenance of core gameplay systems, including but not limited to player control, NPC behavior, traversal, mission logic, progression, economy and inventory.
  • Collaborate with designers and other stakeholders to translate design goals and specs into robust, extensible technical solutions. Design and develop a suite of tools to meet design workflow needs.
  • Mentor and guide a team of systems engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and knowledge sharing.
  • Own systems performance and memory footprint, working to ensure functionality and compatibility across multiple platforms, as well as long term extensibility.
  • Define and enforce best practices for coding standards, documentation, and architecture within the game systems team.
  • Oversee tools and workflow for game systems. Coordinate with design leads on tool and workflow design.
  • Participate in technical planning, task estimation, and milestone reviews.
  • Debug and resolve complex game systems issues and contribute to ongoing game stability and polish.

Core Qualifications
  • 7+ years of professional game development experience with a focus on gameplay or systems engineering.
  • Shipped at least one AAA title in a senior or lead systems engineering role.
  • Expertise in C++ and strong knowledge of modern software engineering practices.
  • Strong understanding of game engine architecture and modern gameplay systems development.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Experience leading technical teams and managing cross-disciplinary collaboration.
  • Passion for crafting exceptional player experiences through gameplay systems.

Plus If...
  • Experience with Unreal Engine 4 or 5.
  • Familiarity with multiplayer game systems, replication, and network optimization.
  • Knowledge of scripting languages (e.g., Blueprint, Lua, Angelscript, etc.) and their integration with game systems.
  • Prior experience with open-world games or systemic gameplay projects.

Description
  • Full-time job with benefits.
  • Role is on-site in Santa Monica, CA.
  • Office is located near downtown Santa Monica - near metro and freeways.

The base pay range for this position is $170,000 to $195,000 per year. Actual compensation is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a competitive package of benefits including vacation time, sick time, company holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) matching to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.

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