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Game Design Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Epic Games

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Cary, NC · On-site

We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development. ENGINEERING - GAMES ... Work closely with art and design leads to ensure gameplay mechanics meet functional requirements ...

Apple

Design Verification Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$126K - $153K/yr

Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet and changing the game? We have an opportunity for an outstandingly hardworking design verification engineer! As a member of our wide ...

Epic Games

Gameplay Engineering Lead

Cary, NC · On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

... design to create and iterate on gameplay features, while maintaining strong architectural and algorithmic direction • Collaborate with Unreal Engine teams to contribute to ongoing feature ...

New

Apple

Design Verification Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$126K - $153K/yr

Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet and changing the game? We have an opportunity for an outstandingly hardworking design verification engineer! As a member of our wide ...

AGBO

NPC Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Qualifications & Skills: * 3+ years of experience in gameplay or combat design with at least one shipped action or combat-focused title, bonus if you helped grow and maintain a live service game ...

AGBO Films LLC

NPC Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Qualifications & Skills: * 3+ years of experience in gameplay or combat design with at least one shipped action or combat-focused title, bonus if you helped grow and maintain a live service game ...

AGBO

NPC Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Design, prototype, and iterate on NPC Design and implementation including abilities, enemy behaviors, weapons, and feedback loops. * Contribute to the development and optimization of gameplay to ...

CommScope Inc.

CAD Designer

Apex, NC · On-site

$20.50 - $28.50/hr

Job Title : CAD Designer Telecom New Product Development, located in Apex, NC About the Role The CA ... Our employees push the boundaries of communications technology that enables game-changing ...

CommScope, Inc.

CAD Designer

Apex, NC · On-site

$20.50 - $28.50/hr

Job Title : CAD Designer Telecom New Product Development, located in Apex, NC About the Role The CA ... Our employees push the boundaries of communications technology that enables game-changing ...

Epic Games

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Cary, NC · On-site

We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development. ENGINEERING - GAMES ... design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to ...

COMMSCOPE, INC.

CAD Designer

Apex, NC

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Job Title : CAD Designer Telecom New Product Development, located in Apex, NC About the Role The CA ... Our employees push the boundaries of communications technology that enables game-changing ...

COMMSCOPE, INC.

CAD Designer

Apex, NC

$20.50 - $28.50/hr

Job Title : CAD Designer Telecom New Product Development, located in Apex, NC About the Role The CA ... Our employees push the boundaries of communications technology that enables game-changing ...

Apple

Design Verification Engineer

Cary, NC

$162K - $286K/yr

Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet and changing the game? We have an opportunity for an outstandingly hardworking design verification engineer! As a member of our wide ...

Apple

Design Verification Engineer

Cary, NC

$114K - $199K/yr

Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet and changing the game? We have an opportunity for an outstandingly hardworking design verification engineer! As a member of our wide ...

Apple

Design Verification Engineer

Cary, NC

$114K - $199K/yr

Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet and changing the game? We have an opportunity for an outstandingly hardworking design verification engineer! As a member of our wide ...

Apple

Design Verification Engineer

Cary, NC

$162K - $286K/yr

Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet and changing the game? We have an opportunity for an outstandingly hardworking design verification engineer! As a member of our wide ...

Apple

Design Verification Engineer

Cary, NC

$114K - $199K/yr

Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet and changing the game? We have an opportunity for an outstandingly hardworking design verification engineer! As a member of our wide ...

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All JobsGame Design JobsGame Design Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Game Design information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$45.7K

$151.6K

How much do game design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for game design in Raleigh, NC is $144,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,700.00 and $150,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I play a game that's free?

Game designers and developers often create free-to-play games, which are accessible without purchase. These games may include in-app purchases or ads to generate revenue. Playing free games is common in the industry, and understanding monetization models can be useful for game designers.

Which game can I play now?

Game designers can work on developing new games or improving existing ones, often using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. To stay current, they should follow industry releases and updates, and may participate in beta testing or game showcases. The specific game available to play depends on current market releases and personal access to gaming platforms.

What is game design?

Game design is the process of creating the content and rules of a game, including its mechanics, story, characters, and overall player experience. Game designers develop the structure and features of a game, decide how it will be played, and work closely with artists, programmers, and other team members to bring the game to life. Their goal is to make engaging, balanced, and enjoyable experiences for players. Game design can apply to video games, board games, and other interactive entertainment.

What is the #1 game right now?

The most popular game currently varies by platform and region, but titles like 'Fortnite,' 'Minecraft,' and 'Elden Ring' are among the top trending games. Game designers often analyze these popular titles to understand current industry trends and player preferences, which can influence their work on new projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Designer, you need a strong grasp of game mechanics, storytelling, user experience, and typically a degree in game design or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, scripting languages, and prototyping tools is crucial. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential for developing engaging, innovative games that resonate with players and meet project goals.

What is the difference between Game Design vs Game Development?

AspectGame DesignGame Development
Primary FocusCreating game concepts, mechanics, and user experienceImplementing, coding, and building the game based on design
Skills RequiredCreativity, storytelling, understanding of gameplay mechanicsProgramming, software engineering, technical problem-solving
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, creative teams, collaborative settingsDevelopment teams, technical environments, coding labs
Common CertificationsGame design degrees, UX/UI certificationsComputer science, software engineering degrees

Game Design focuses on conceptualizing and designing gameplay experiences, while Game Development involves the technical implementation and coding of those designs. Both roles are essential in the game creation process and often collaborate closely to produce engaging games.

How do game designers typically collaborate with other departments during the development process?

Game designers work closely with artists, programmers, writers, and audio engineers to ensure that the gameplay experience aligns with the creative vision and technical constraints of the project. Regular meetings, feedback sessions, and iterative prototyping are common, allowing designers to communicate their ideas and adjust designs based on input from other team members. This collaborative environment helps address challenges such as balancing gameplay mechanics and ensuring that all elements integrate smoothly. Strong communication and flexibility are essential for success in this role.

Why do ADHD people love gaming?

Game design as a profession involves creating engaging and interactive experiences, which can appeal to individuals with ADHD due to the stimulating and fast-paced nature of many games. Gaming often provides immediate feedback, variety, and challenge, aligning with the preferences of some with ADHD for novelty and active engagement, which can also enhance focus and motivation in game development tasks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Design jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Game Design jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Game Design jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Game Design job openings:
Game Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Design job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 13% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,946 per year, or $69.7 per hour.
Lead Gameplay Programmer

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Epic Games

Cary, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?
At the core of Epic's success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we're always innovating.
Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.
ENGINEERING - GAMES
What We Do
Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and technology that empower content developers worldwide.
What You'll Do
We are seeking an experienced Lead Gameplay Engineer to direct gameplay teams within Rocket League. They will be responsible for leading the gameplay engineering team and collaborating and iterating with gameplay programmers, game designers, producers, and artists. They will play a critical role in feature development for Rocket League.
In this role, you will
  • Mentor and coach a team of gameplay engineers and be the primary hub of communication and information for other disciplines
  • Distill high-level feature requests into meaningful, actionable work items and delegate effectively to the team
  • Deliver core gameplay features efficiently and on time, and speak up when the team is over- or under-scoped
  • Lead the vision for different gameplay systems and features
  • Propose and review architecture, systems, and technical approaches to ensure that they satisfy requirements and promote a healthy codebase
  • Work closely with art and design leads to ensure gameplay mechanics meet functional requirements and uphold our high standards
  • Work closely with other engineering disciplines to integrate systems in support of the player experience, as well as write code when necessary
What we're looking for
  • Experience developing games professionally and shipping AAA titles (on multiple platforms preferred)
  • Experience leading a team of engineers within shipped AAA titles
  • Strong C++ skills and the ability to code and architect gameplay mechanics and tools
  • Strong analytical abilities with creative problem-solving skills, excelling in thinking innovatively and finding unique solutions
  • Experience working on live services games
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong teamwork and cross-disciplinary collaboration skills, including the ability to deliver and respond to constructive feedback
  • Keen interest in games
EPIC JOB + EPIC BENEFITS = EPIC LIFE
Our intent is to cover all things that are medically necessary and improve the quality of life. We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental, a Vision HRA, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance & a 401k with competitive match. We also offer a robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, which provides free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents. Throughout the year we celebrate our employees with events and company-wide paid breaks. We offer unlimited PTO and sick time and recognize individuals for 7 years of employment with a paid sabbatical.
ABOUT US
Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.
Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!
Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.
Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.

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