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Game Developer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Virginia Beach, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Richmond, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Breakout Operations, LLC

Game Master

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$13 - $14/hr

Game Masters are the face of our company, welcoming and guiding each guest with a smile. You should be friendly and attentive but not too overbearing - just enough to make sure everyone has an ...

MANTECH

Wargame Developer

Quantico, VA · On-site

Develop an interface to modeling and simulations tools that can be used in game play and operate ... Partner with designers and developers to refine mechanics that accurately reflect Marine Corps ...

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All JobsGame Developer JobsGame Developer Jobs in Virginia

Game Developer information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$107.5K

$178.5K

How much do game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for game developer in Virginia is $107,540.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $122,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 80 20 rule in game development?

In game development, the 80/20 rule suggests that approximately 80% of the game's value comes from 20% of the features or effort. Developers often focus on the most impactful features to optimize time and resources, ensuring a better player experience while managing scope and deadlines.

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 computer graphics, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems, and sometimes certifications in these platforms are commonly required. Creative problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These abilities are crucial for building engaging, technically robust games and collaborating successfully within multidisciplinary development teams.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Game developers create and design interactive entertainment, and while AI tools can assist with tasks like asset generation and coding, they are unlikely to fully replace human creativity, problem-solving, and storytelling skills essential to game development. AI can enhance productivity but requires human oversight and expertise to produce high-quality, engaging games.

What jobs can a game developer do?

A game developer can work in roles such as game programmer, game designer, level designer, graphics programmer, or technical artist. They often collaborate with artists, sound designers, and project managers, and may specialize in areas like mobile, console, or PC game development using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine.

What Are Game Developers?

As a game developer, you write the code for video game software. Your code, combined with the work of other developers, brings video games to life on computers and gaming consoles. Your responsibilities are to design core game features and to collaborate with a team of other developers, graphic designers, and artists. Your job duties include game testing, debugging, and production in all aspects of gaming—player character creation, non-player characters, backgrounds, and gameplay. Being a gamer yourself gives you a solid understanding of the importance of game mechanics and storytelling.

Is game developer in high demand?

Game developers are in high demand due to the growing gaming industry and increasing investment in mobile, console, and PC games. Skills in programming languages like C++ and Unity or Unreal Engine are highly valued, and job opportunities are expected to grow as the industry expands globally.

What are some common challenges game developers face when working on large team projects?

Game developers working on large team projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multiple disciplines (programming, art, design, audio), ensuring clear communication, and managing dependencies between different parts of the game. Balancing creative vision with technical constraints and deadlines can also be demanding. Adapting to shifting priorities and integrating feedback from playtesting are key aspects of the collaborative process, making strong teamwork and flexibility essential in this role.

What does a game developer do?

A game developer is responsible for designing, creating, and programming video games for computers, consoles, or mobile devices. Their work involves coding, testing, and debugging game software, as well as collaborating with artists, designers, and other team members to bring a game concept to life. Game developers may specialize in areas like gameplay programming, graphics, or artificial intelligence, and often use game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine to build their projects.

What is the difference between Game Developer vs Game Designer?

AspectGame DeveloperGame Designer
Primary RoleProgram and build game mechanics, code, and softwareDesign game concepts, storylines, and gameplay experiences
Skills & CertificationsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software developmentCreative design, storytelling, game design tools
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding environments, software studiosDesign teams, creative studios, collaborative spaces
Industry UsageUsed across game studios for technical implementationUsed for conceptualization and gameplay design

While both roles are essential in game development, Game Developers focus on coding and technical implementation, whereas Game Designers craft the gameplay experience and story. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and collaboration in the gaming industry.

More about Game Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Developer jobs in Virginia? For Game Developer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Developer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Game Developer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Game Developer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Game Developer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Game Developer jobs in VA? For Game Developer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Developer job openings in Virginia 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 $107,540 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Arcade Game Technician

Arcade Game Technician

Apex Entertainment

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Apex Entertainment rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 54 rated amusements

Job description

Now Hiring: Arcade/Game Technician
Location: Apex Entertainment Virginia Beach

Are you mechanically inclined, tech-savvy, and passionate about arcade games? Apex Entertainment is seeking an Arcade/Game Technician to keep our games running smoothly and ensure every guest has a flawless and fun experience.

If you're ready to put your skills to work in a fast-paced, high-energy environment - this is your opportunity to be a vital part of the team behind the fun!

Position Overview:

As an Arcade/Game Technician, you'll be responsible for maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting our arcade machines and equipment. Your work ensures that everything from classic cabinets to the latest video games operates at peak performance, providing guests with an exceptional entertainment experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

  • Diagnose and repair arcade game malfunctions, software issues, wiring, and hardware failures

  • Perform routine corrective maintenance to minimize downtime and extend machine life

  • Record daily repairs and maintenance tasks for tracking and compliance

Preventative Care & Installations

  • Conduct scheduled preventative maintenance to maintain functionality and visual appeal

  • Install and calibrate card readers and upgraded components on arcade machines

  • Follow detailed maintenance schedules to ensure all machines are up to standard

Inventory & Reporting

  • Monitor and manage arcade part inventory and equipment supplies

  • Run weekly/monthly payout percentage calibrations

  • Order, receive, and install replacement parts as needed

Cleanliness & Organization

  • Maintain a clean, organized arcade space and technician workspace

  • Ensure all machines are clean, filled, and ready for guest use

  • Organize spare parts and tools for quick access and efficient repairs

Safety & Compliance

  • Follow safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment

  • Keep logs and checklists updated for daily, weekly, monthly, and annual inspections

Team Support

  • Assist with additional facility tasks as directed by management

  • Work collaboratively with other departments to ensure smooth operations

What We're Looking For:

  • Mechanical or arcade maintenance background preferred

  • Previous experience repairing arcade games is a plus

  • Must be at least 18 years old

  • Valid driver's license or reliable transportation

  • Ability to lift and move 50+ lbs

  • Strong troubleshooting, technical, and organizational skills

  • Flexible availability including days, nights, & weekends

Perks & Benefits:

  • Join a passionate, high-energy team dedicated to fun and service

  • Competitive pay and opportunities for advancement

  • Free access to attractions

  • 50% off select food items

  • Flexible scheduling to support work-life balance

Love arcade games and have the skills to keep them running?
Apply now to become an Arcade/Game Technician at Apex Entertainment - and help us create unforgettable experiences for every guest!


What Apex Entertainment employees say

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