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Game Ai Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AI Programmer

Cary, NC · On-site

$119K - $132K/yr

ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time ... What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for an experienced AI Programmer to join the Fortnite Battle ...

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$108K - $161K/yr

... game. Using C++, Unreal Engine 5, and our in-house utility AI framework, you will make bots that fight, traverse, loot, and team up convincingly enough that players second-guess whether they're ...

Agentic AI for Gaming: Evaluate and drive the application of Qualcomm's agentic AI infrastructure to gaming workflows and experiences, including identifying scalable, cross-domain opportunities

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

... game. Using C++, Unreal Engine 5, and our in-house utility AI framework, you will make bots that fight, traverse, loot, and team up convincingly enough that players second-guess whether they're ...

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$108K - $161K/yr

... game. Using C++, Unreal Engine 5, and our in-house utility AI framework, you will make bots that fight, traverse, loot, and team up convincingly enough that players second-guess whether they're ...

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$125K - $139K/yr

A deeper understanding of game AI and NPC behaviors. * Familiarity with mission, quest, or dialogue systems. * Experience with combat and stealth mechanics * Experience with console development and ...

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

... game. Using C++, Unreal Engine 5, and our in-house utility AI framework, you will make bots that fight, traverse, loot, and team up convincingly enough that players second-guess whether they're ...

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Game Ai information

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How much do game ai jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for game ai in the United States is $20.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is game AI?

Game AI, or Game Artificial Intelligence, refers to the techniques and systems used to create responsive, adaptive, and intelligent behaviors in non-player characters (NPCs) within video games. It involves programming NPCs to make decisions, follow strategies, and interact with players in realistic ways. Game AI can include pathfinding, enemy tactics, environmental awareness, and even dialogue systems, all aimed at enhancing the player's experience. Developers use various algorithms, including finite state machines and machine learning, to implement these behaviors.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a game AI developer?

To thrive as a Game AI Developer, you need strong programming skills (especially in C++ or Python), a background in computer science or related fields, and a solid understanding of algorithms and data structures. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as experience with AI frameworks and pathfinding systems, is crucial. Creativity, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills for designing engaging and believable AI behaviors. These skills ensure the creation of compelling, immersive gameplay experiences that challenge and entertain players.

What are common challenges faced by game AI developers when collaborating with game designers and artists?

Game AI developers often encounter challenges in balancing technical feasibility with creative vision. They must translate designers’ ideas for character behavior into algorithms that feel natural within the game’s constraints, while also ensuring their code integrates smoothly with art assets and animations. Communication is key, as AI developers frequently participate in cross-disciplinary meetings to align on gameplay mechanics and troubleshoot issues that arise during implementation. Successfully navigating these challenges requires flexibility, problem-solving skills, and a collaborative mindset.

What is the difference between Game Ai vs Game Programmer?

AspectGame AiGame Programmer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, AI, or related fields; knowledge of AI algorithmsBachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering; programming skills
Work EnvironmentGame development teams, focusing on AI systems and behaviorsGame development teams, focusing on coding, systems, and gameplay mechanics
Industry UsageDesigning intelligent behaviors for NPCs and game systemsImplementing game features, mechanics, and systems through coding

Game Ai specialists focus on creating intelligent behaviors for non-player characters and game systems, utilizing AI algorithms. Game Programmers handle the coding and implementation of game features and mechanics. While both roles work closely in game development, Game Ai emphasizes AI techniques, whereas Game Programmers focus on software development and coding.

How to become a game AI programmer?

To become a game AI programmer, you typically need a strong foundation in computer science, programming languages such as C++ or Python, and knowledge of algorithms and data structures. Experience with game development tools, understanding of AI techniques like pathfinding and decision trees, and a portfolio of relevant projects can improve job prospects. Formal education such as a bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields is often preferred by employers.
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What states have the most Game Ai jobs?

States with the most job openings for Game Ai jobs include:

Infographic showing various Game Ai job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 66% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,561 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Senior Game AI Designer | North America | Canada | Europe | Fully Remote

Escape Velocity Entertainment Inc

Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

What we are looking for:
We are building a culture of play and seeking an imaginative, skilful, and versatile Senior AI Designer to join our remote team. If you share a passion for developing ground-breaking worlds and player experiences, then this may be for you!
Requirements
What We Will Do Together:
  • Create exciting new enemies for a unique, high-mobility action game.
  • Create design specs and technical documents.
  • Work alongside other designers and engineers on NPC creation, scripting, and behaviour trees.
  • Collaborate with our producers to plan future work and identify dependencies.
  • Analyze user data, feedback, and heatmaps to understand how the game's AI is functioning and what changes need to be made.
  • Pitch detailed new AI designs to leads and directors.

What You Will Bring:
  • A passion for competitive and/or strategic multiplayer games.
  • 5+ years of professional game design or AI game development experience.
  • Technical expertise in Unreal and/or equivalent AAA game engines.
  • Senior-level proficiency in blueprint scripting and AI behaviour trees.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • A professional understanding of competitive multiplayer games and their use of NPCs.
  • Background or education in game design or programming.

Benefits
Interested ... a bit about Escape Velocity:
Escape Velocity is a team of passionate, talented developers working at a studio that offers excellent benefits, on what we believe is a once-in-a-career project with a committed publisher. But that doesn't necessarily make us unique. What does make us special? We value the time, energy, and talent of our players and our colleagues. We want every hour spent developing and playing our games to be an incredibly rewarding and worthwhile use of your time. To that end, we are 'Fully Remote' and support team members nearly anywhere in the world. We prioritize honesty, even when that means sharing bad news. We strive to give everyone autonomy so they can determine how best to work and play, and we care more about what you bring to the game and studio than how many hours you're clocking. We're dedicated to building a culture of play, which not only makes us better game makers, but also strengthens the bonds between us all. We believe in constant improvement across all areas - from the game itself to our production design - and are constantly re-evaluating how we spend our time to ensure that we're not wasting yours and we're all always working on the most important things.
A few benefits you can expect from us:
  • A generous PTO allowance
  • Summer and Winter holidays studio closure (separate to PTO allowance)
  • Private Medical & Dental Healthcare
  • Private Mental Health scheme
  • A generous annual Health & Wellbeing allowance
  • Discretionary Studio Bonus
  • Top range tech for your home set up
  • Other benefits based on your region

How to apply:
Click apply and complete an application along with a Resume / CV. If we would like to move forward with your application, a member of the Recruiting Team will reach out to you and guide you through our process.
Escape Velocity is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to hiring, promoting, and compensating employees based on their qualifications and demonstrated ability to perform job responsibilities.
Applications will be considered regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, or any other protected category.