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Game Dev Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Executive Producer, Mainstream Games

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$133K - $135K/yr

Serve as the primary point of contact for the game development teams, collaborating on project and milestone schedules, submission planning, risks, dependency and and overall development plans.

Senior Software Engineer, Game Solutions

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Be a trusted technical advisor to external game development studios, helping them optimize ... performance, scalability, and quality. * Work deeply on prototypes that push the boundaries of what ...

An ideal candidate has Mobile Unity Game development, C# and a passion for games, mobile or any type. Samples or examples of work - can be from a prototype, in college, etc. Must be able to work ...

Showing results 41-60

Game Dev information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$107K

$177.6K

How much do game dev jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for game dev in California is $107,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $122,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game dev?

To thrive as a Game Dev, you need strong programming skills (such as proficiency in C++, C#, or Java), a solid understanding of game engines, and often a relevant degree in computer science, game design, or a related field. Experience with industry-standard tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, version control systems, and, in some cases, relevant certifications are commonly required. Creativity, teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help developers excel within dynamic, multidisciplinary teams. These abilities enable the development of engaging, bug-free games while ensuring smooth collaboration and successful project delivery.

What does a typical workday look like for a game dev and how do they interact with other team members?

As a Game Dev, your daily responsibilities often include coding new features, debugging, integrating assets, and optimizing game performance. You’ll regularly attend team meetings or stand-ups to discuss project progress and coordinate tasks with designers, artists, and project managers. Collaboration is a central part of the job, so you'll be sharing feedback, reviewing code, and brainstorming creative solutions to technical challenges. Most teams use agile methodologies, which means you’ll frequently work in sprints with clearly defined goals and timelines. This environment fosters both individual focus and strong teamwork to create compelling gaming experiences.

What does a game dev do?

A Game Developer designs, programs, and tests video games across various platforms. They work with a team of artists, designers, and writers to bring a game from concept to completion. Developers focus on coding gameplay mechanics, optimizing performance, and fixing bugs. Their role may also include integrating audio, creating physics systems, and enhancing user experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Dev jobs in California? The most popular types of Game Dev jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Game Dev jobs? Cities in California with the most Game Dev job openings:
Infographic showing various Game Dev job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,050 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Game Research & Development Intern, Engine Research

LightSpeed Studios

Los Angeles, CA

$28.27 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Business UnitLIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is made up of passionate players who advance the art & science of game development through great stories, great gameplay, and advanced technology. We are focused on bringing next generation experiences to gamers who want to enjoy them anywhere, anytime, across multiple genres and devices.About the Hiring TeamLightspeed Tech Center is a R&D department under Lightspeed Studios which develop PUBG Mobile and other high-quality games. Our Tech Center leads the research, exploration, and discovery of innovative technologies and provides technical services for all games during all phases of life cycle, including engine, audio, QA, AI, next generation game, technical cooperation, etc.What the Role Entails

Working with scientists to research and develop advanced techniques in the following topics:

  • 3D geometric learning,
  • Re-meshing and UV optimization,
  • Physically-based animation and simulation
  • Machine learning for computer graphics
  • Motion planning in virtual city
  • Character locomotion and control
  • realistic image synthesis and real-time rendering techniques
  • Researching and developing tools and pipelines to facilitate the use of technologies in the game development environment
Who We Look For
  • Strong coding skills in one of following programming languages: C++, python, TensorFlow/Torch
  • Solid knowledge in calculus, linear algebra, basic numerical analysis
  • A strong sense of responsibility and good communication skills

Plus:

  • Graduate students in a master or Ph.D. level program
  • Publications on computer graphics/vision, machine learning, and robotics
  • Familiarity with game engine, graphics APIs, and GPU programming

Location State(s)

US-California-Los AngelesThe expected base pay range for this position in the location(s) listed above is $28.27 to $60.00 per hour. Actual pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. This position will be eligible for 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked and up to 13 paid holidays throughout the calendar year. Subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans then in effect, full-time interns are also eligible to enroll in the Company-sponsored medical plan.Equal Employment Opportunity at Tencent

As an equal opportunity employer, we firmly believe that diverse voices fuel our innovation and allow us to better serve our users and the community. We foster an environment where every employee of Tencent feels supported and inspired to achieve individual and common goals.