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Game Developer Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Search Solutions, LLC

iOS Game Developer

Los Angeles, CA

$55.75 - $76.75/hr

We're looking for iOS engineers to join our game studio! You will work on exciting new casual games with very high visibility and will help design game-play features and optimizations on multiple ...

Exploding Kittens

Principal Game Developer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The Principal Game Developer is a senior leader at Exploding Kittens who plays a key role in shaping the games we bring to life. In this role, you'll make final game development decisions, guiding ...

Exploding Kittens

Principal Game Developer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The Principal Game Developer is a senior leader at Exploding Kittens who plays a key role in shaping the games we bring to life. In this role, you'll make final game development decisions, guiding ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Unity Engineer Role: We are looking for an experienced game engineer with strong C# and Unity skills. You will be working closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to build out our upcoming ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Unity Engineer Role: We are looking for an experienced game engineer with strong C# and Unity skills. You will be working closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to build out our upcoming ...

YO AI Labs

Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$78K - $102K/yr

Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer Job Type: Contractor Location: Remote Job Summary: In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models ...

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All JobsGame Developer Programmer JobsGame Developer Programmer Jobs in California

Game Developer Programmer information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$91.4K

$171.2K

How much do game developer programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for game developer programmer in California is $91,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,700.00 and $143,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Game Developer Programmer do?

A Game Developer Programmer is responsible for writing the code that brings video games to life. They work closely with game designers, artists, and other team members to implement gameplay mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. Their tasks include troubleshooting bugs, optimizing performance, and ensuring the game runs smoothly on different platforms. Game Developer Programmers often specialize in areas such as graphics, audio, or network programming, and are essential to the technical development of a game.

What are some common challenges faced by Game Developer Programmers when working in multidisciplinary teams?

Game Developer Programmers often collaborate closely with artists, designers, and audio engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical limitations with creative vision. Effective communication is key, as programmers must frequently translate complex technical concepts for non-technical team members and accommodate evolving gameplay requirements. Balancing performance optimization with graphical fidelity and gameplay features is another common challenge, requiring programmers to make trade-offs and iterate solutions quickly in a fast-paced environment.

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

To thrive as a Game Developer Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages such as C++, C#, or Java, along with a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals and often a relevant degree. Familiarity with industry-standard game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems, and possibly certifications in game development are highly valuable. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and tackling complex development challenges. These skills and qualities are crucial for building high-quality, engaging games that meet technical requirements and player expectations.

What is the difference between Game Developer Programmer vs Game Designer?

AspectGame Developer ProgrammerGame Designer
Primary RoleWriting code, implementing game mechanics, and developing softwareCreating game concepts, storylines, and gameplay experiences
Required SkillsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software development, problem-solvingCreativity, storytelling, game mechanics design
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, coding environmentsDesign studios, collaborative creative teams
Common Industry UsageUsed in game development companies for technical implementationUsed in game studios for conceptual and gameplay design

While both roles are essential in game creation, Game Developer Programmers focus on coding and technical implementation, whereas Game Designers concentrate on creating engaging gameplay and story elements. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and collaboration in the gaming industry.

What are popular job titles related to Game Developer Programmer jobs in California? For Game Developer Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Developer Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Game Developer Programmer jobs in California are:
Game Developer Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Developer Programmer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,423 per year, or $44 per hour.
iOS Game Developer

iOS Game Developer

Search Solutions, LLC

Los Angeles, CA

$55.75 - $76.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Description

We're looking for iOS engineers to join our game studio!

You will work on exciting new casual games with very high visibility and will help design game-play features and optimizations on multiple titles. We're looking for seasoned engineers who know their way around Objective-C.

Responsibilities

  • Code primarily in Object-C
  • Design and implement re-useable cross-game features for live games
  • Work in a team of talented iOS engineers developing amazing games
  • Collaborate closely with engineering, product, graphic and game design teams to define our next generation games.
Qualifications

Requirements

  • Solid object-oriented programming and design skills
  • Strong basis in CS fundamentals including data structures, algorithms, and memory management
  • Fluency with Objective-C and familiarity with many Apple frameworks
  • Excellent problem solving, critical thinking and communication skills
  • Experience using instruments for debugging and performance turning iOS applications
  • 4+ years software development experience
  • Agile/SCRUM experience
  • Experience as a team lead preferred but not required

Nice To Have

  • Experience with C, C++
  • Shipped multiple games or apps to the App Store
  • OpenGL, 3D graphics experience
  • Keen eye for pixel perfect UI
  • Familiar with art asset pipelines for 2D and 3D games
Additional Information

 This is a full-time position.

Health Benefits, vacation, 401K are included

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