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Game Developer Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hardsuit Labs

Level / Game Designer - Senior

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$80K - $120K/yr

Salary Range: $80,000 to $120,000 USD Primary working language: English ABOUT HARDSUIT LABS We are an independent game developer founded in 2015 in Seattle, Washington. We believe that great games ...

Discord

Solutions Architect, SF Bay Area

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$220K - $247K/yr

Own end-to-end solution architecture for AAA game developer accounts * Lead technical discovery ... The US base salary range for this full-time position is $220,000 to $247,500 + equity + benefits.

Thatgamecompany

Gameplay Engineer

$105K - $133K/yr

Provide technical insight and ideas regarding game design * Work closely with designers and ... This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the Company ...

thatgamecompany

Gameplay Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$105K - $133K/yr

Provide technical insight and ideas regarding game design * Work closely with designers and ... This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the Company ...

Templar Media

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$125K - $139K/yr

As an independent developer and publisher, Templar develops the games that we want, on our own ... Templar offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package and a professional but non ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

A passionate eye towards delivering quality and highly-tuned game feel. * Experience mentoring and ... The salary offered may vary based on the candidate's location, qualifications, experience and ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

A passionate eye towards delivering quality and highly-tuned game feel. * Experience mentoring and ... The salary offered may vary based on the candidate's location, qualifications, experience and ...

Skydance

Senior Gameplay Engineer

OR · Remote

$150K - $180K/yr

A passionate eye towards delivering quality and highly-tuned game feel. * Experience mentoring and ... The salary offered may vary based on the candidate's location, qualifications, experience and ...

Zwift

Senior Software Engineer 2, Game Systems

$128K - $204K/yr

As Senior Software Engineer, Game Systems, you'll work with a team of talented engineers to ensure ... The base salary will be based on a number of factors including the role offered, the individual ...

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All JobsGame Developer Salary Jobs

Game Developer Salary information

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$32.5K

$108.5K

$180K

How much do game developer salary jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 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 position?

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.

How much do AAA game devs make?

AAA game developers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and role. Senior positions or specialized skills like graphics programming or project management can lead to higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000.

How much money does a Game Developer make?

A game developer's salary varies based on experience, location, and skill set, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level developers earn toward the lower end, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or working in high-demand markets can earn higher salaries.

Is Game Developer a good career?

A game developer creates video games and typically requires skills in programming, design, and software tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. The profession offers opportunities in entertainment, tech, and creative industries, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and specialization. It can be a rewarding career for those passionate about gaming and technology, but it often involves project deadlines and continuous learning.

How much do GTA developers get paid?

Game developers working on titles like Grand Theft Auto typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and role. Senior developers or those with specialized skills in graphics or AI may earn higher salaries, especially at large studios like Rockstar Games. Compensation can also include bonuses and benefits based on project success and company policies.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,471 per year, or $52.1 per hour.
Course Instructor Position - Online Master's Degree in Game Development

Course Instructor Position - Online Master's Degree in Game Development

DigiPen

Redmond, WA • On-site

$6.0K/mo

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Located in Redmond, Washington, DigiPen Institute of Technology is a private college that offers undergraduate degree programs in Computer Science, Game Design, Digital Audio and Music, and Digital Art and Animation, as well as Master's degree programs in Computer Science and Digital Art.
DigiPen Institute of Technology has been ranked one of the top 5 game design schools in the country by the Princeton Review for more than a decade. To learn more, visit: https://www.digipen.edu/ .
Position: Course Instructor Position - Online Master's Degree in Game Development
Reports to: Department Chair
Position Type
Adjunct Faculty as Course Instructor for the program.
Position Overview
DigiPen is seeking experienced and passionate practitioners in Game Development and Game-adjacent fields to teach courses for our online Master of Science in Game Development (MSGD) program. This is an exceptional opportunity to mentor aspiring game developers & current practitioners, share your industry expertise, and deliver a cutting-edge curriculum that combines creativity and technical excellence to produce the next generation of game development professionals.
About the Program
Our online MSGD program prepares students for leadership roles in the game industry by combining artistic creativity, technical proficiency, and team-based collaboration. Students work with industry-standard tools and engines while developing a comprehensive understanding of game design, programming, production management, and emerging technologies. The program welcomes both aspiring game developers and working professionals seeking to advance their careers. Graduates of this program will be ready to contribute to their industry with the appropriate technical skills and workplace practices, whether in a remote or onsite work environment.
Key Responsibilities
Course Instruction
  • Primary responsibilities include the day-to-day operation of one, or more, courses offered by our 100% online, asynchronous Master of Science in Game Development program
  • Facilitate meaningful discussions and interactive learning experiences in virtual classrooms
  • Provide timely, constructive feedback on student work and maintain regular office hours

Course Quality & Alignment
  • Provide content updates as necessary to keep the course material current
  • Ensure course content is technically accurate, industry-relevant, and appropriate for an online learning environment
  • Stay current with game industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices
  • Integrate real-world game development workflows and industry standards in the course delivery
  • Collaborate with faculty colleagues to maintain curriculum quality and coherence
  • Contribute to program assessment and continuous improvement efforts
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Game Development, Computer Science, Interactive Media, Digital Arts, or a closely related field
  • Minimum 4 years of professional game development experience in the industry
  • Deep expertise in at least one of the following areas: game design, game programming, technical art, game production, or game engines
  • Proficiency in the Unreal game engine
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to explain complex concepts to diverse learners
  • Portfolio demonstrating shipped games or significant game development projects
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science or related fields
  • Shipped titles on major platforms
  • Experience with a professional game engine (Unity, Unreal, or Godot)
  • Demonstrated teaching or mentoring experience (university-level preferred)
  • Experience with online learning platforms and virtual instruction
  • Credits on commercially successful or critically acclaimed games
  • Expertise in emerging game technologies (VR/AR, procedural generation, multiplayer systems, AI for games)
  • Experience with multiple programming languages (C++, C#, Python, etc.)
  • Knowledge of game art pipelines and tools (Maya, Blender, Substance, etc.)
  • Experience with agile development methodologies and production tools
  • Published work, talks, or tutorials on game development topics
  • Active participation in game development communities
  • Experience teaching in online or hybrid learning environments
  • Understanding of game monetization, live ops, and business models
Desired Areas of Course Development
  • Game Design Principles and Theory
  • Game Programming and Engine Architecture
  • 3D Game Development with Unity/Unreal
  • Advanced Graphics and Rendering
  • Game AI and Procedural Generation
  • Multiplayer and Network Programming
  • Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Development
  • Game Production and Project Management
  • Technical Art and Shader Development
  • Mobile Game Development
  • Narrative Design for Games
  • Game Audio and Sound Design Integration
  • Game Analytics and User Experience
  • Independent Game Development and Publishing
Salary
$6,048 for positions at the Assistant Professor level.
Exceptional experience may lead to additional title and compensation.
Application Procedure
Applications should include, or you will be asked to provide, the following:
  • A cover letter
  • Current curriculum vitae / résumé
  • Academic Transcripts of most recently attended educational institutions
Optional materials:
  • Statement of teaching philosophy
  • Statement of experience on maximizing quality and engagement across broad subjects and perspectives

Upon accepting an offer of employment with us, the candidate will receive an invitation for a required background check, employment verification, and 5-panel drug screen as a part of the hiring process.
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Complete application files will be accepted on a continuous basis and remain active for 365 days. While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Additional Notes:
All Adjunct positions are part-time, temporary assignments (for no more than one semester at a time), dependent upon student enrollment and instructional needs, and subject to budget consideration and approval. DigiPen Institute of Technology reserves the right to extend application deadlines and/or not to offer advertised positions.
Equal opportunity is a priority of DigiPen Institute of Technology, as the institution is committed to fostering a positive learning environment for all. The Institute's intent is to hire the most qualified individuals for faculty and staff, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds of race and ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, veteran status, nationality, culture, religion, and physical abilities. We are committed to broadening our candidate pool to include more diverse individuals and ensuring fairness in hiring by avoiding bias and determining criteria to judge all candidates prior to posting each new position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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