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Game Developer Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stardock Corporation

Senior Game Developer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

This is a salaried, full-time position at our Plymouth, Michigan office and relocation assistance ... in game or simulation development. * Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering ...

Spin Master

Game Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

As the Game Developer for Hellbreak TCG, you will analyze card designs and manage our external ... Spin Master Inc. is a multi-state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions that ...

Auria

Unity Game Developer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site +1

$76K - $110K/yr

Auria is looking to hire a Unity Game Developer to support the MOSAIC program. This role is hybrid ... PAY TRANSPARENCY: The salary offered will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications ...

Auria

Unity Game Developer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$76K - $110K/yr

Auria is looking to hire a Unity Game Developer to support the MOSAIC program. This role is hybrid ... The salary offered will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications - skills, education ...

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Game Developer Salary information

See salary details

$32.5K

$108.5K

$180K

How much do game developer salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for game developer salary 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Developer, you need strong programming skills (often in C++, C#, or Java), a solid understanding of game design principles, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, and version control systems like Git, is essential, along with knowledge of relevant certifications or online courses. Creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills that set standout developers apart. These skills ensure the creation of engaging, high-quality games and facilitate smooth collaboration within multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced industry.

What factors can influence the salary range for a game developer?

Several factors can impact the salary range for game developers, including years of experience, technical expertise (such as proficiency in specific game engines or programming languages), and the size or reputation of the studio. Additionally, developers working in major tech hubs or with experience shipping successful titles may command higher compensation. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and contributing to high-profile projects can also positively affect salary growth over time.

What is the difference between Game Developer Salary vs Software Engineer Salary?

AspectGame Developer SalarySoftware Engineer Salary
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related fieldBachelor's in Computer Science or related field
Work EnvironmentGame studios, entertainment companies, indie developersTech companies, software firms, startups
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in gaming and entertainment industryAcross various industries including tech, finance, healthcare
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles require a background in computer science and programming, Game Developers focus on creating interactive entertainment, often working in gaming studios. Software Engineers have a broader scope, working across multiple industries on diverse software solutions. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and employer type, but understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles and expectations.

Do game developers get paid well?

Game developers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and skill set. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced developers with skills in programming languages, game engines, and design can earn higher wages, especially in larger studios or with specialized expertise.

What is the average salary of a game developer?

The average salary of a game developer can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the company. In the United States, entry-level game developers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 per year, while experienced developers can earn upwards of $100,000 annually. Senior and lead developers, especially at large studios, may earn significantly more. Salaries may also include bonuses, profit-sharing, and other benefits depending on the employer.
More about Game Developer Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Game Developer Salary jobs? Cities with the most Game Developer Salary job openings:
What states have the most Game Developer Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Game Developer Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Game Developer Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Game Developer Salary jobs are:
Game Developer Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Developer Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,471 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Senior Game Developer

Stardock Corporation

Plymouth, MI

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Are you an avid gamer interested in creating awesome games? Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed in C++, has shipped titles in the past and loves strategy games. This is a salaried, full-time position at our Plymouth, Michigan office and relocation assistance will be provided.


Primary Responsibilities Include:

  • Implement low level systems such as windowing, controllers, rendering, audio, and networking.
  • Architect, build and maintain core systems in modern C++ on multicore CPUs.
  • Write technical documents describing core systems.
  • Mentor and collaborate with other developers in a team environment.
  • Work closely with Design, Production, and Art to develop requirements and implementation plans.
  • Manage timelines and milestones to meet stakeholder expectations.
  • Work closely with Production and QA to address bugs.


Education and/or Experience Desired:

  • 7+ years of experience in game or simulation development.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or relevant field.
  • Strong C++ background.
  • Passion for games and game design.
  • Self-motivated and loves solving problems.
  • Experience with modern graphics APIs (DirectX, OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal).
  • Expertise in several of the following: Optimization, networking, UI/UX, AI, generative AI, physics, data management, graphics, gameplay, audio, HLSL/GLSL shaders, pipelines, terrain.
  • Able to learn new technology quickly and execute on a schedule in a fast-paced cross-discipline team environment.
  • Experienced with version control software (e.g. Perforce, SVN, etc.).


The salary for this position ranges from $120,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on your qualifications, experience, and expertise. Stardock is committed to offering a competitive compensation package tailored to the right candidate.

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