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Game Developer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field * Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based ...

Games worked to include Football, Men's and Women's Basketball and Baseball. Working with Flames Club, Event Management, Marketing, Liberty Ticket office and/or other departments as assigned.

Wargame Developer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$114K - $190K/yr

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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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.

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 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:
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.
Wargame Developer with Security Clearance

Wargame Developer with Security Clearance

MANTECH

Quantico, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


ManTech rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 205 rated software companies


Job description

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented WARGAME DEVELOPER to join our team in QUANTICO, VA. Join the vanguard of the Marine Corps Wargaming Division as we modernize the decision environment. In this role, you will be instrumental in assisting with the transition from traditional wargaming into a high-fidelity digital future, ensuring that our nation's senior leaders have the most sophisticated tools and insights to shape future force design. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Design and produce high-quality physical player aids and reference guides while leading their evolution into interactive digital interfaces.
* Develop, operate, maintain, and archive simulation databases using government-provided M&S tools to enhance both tabletop and digital exercises in preparation and during wargame execution.
* Develop an interface to modeling and simulations tools that can be used in game play and operate complex digital tools during wargame execution, translating technical outputs into real-time "so-what" narratives for senior level decision makers.
* Bridge the gap between analog play and digital environments, evangelizing the capability and utilization methods of new tools to help the customer reach digital maturity.
* Assist the analysts in developing tools to capture player decisions and telemetry across both formats, ensuring analysts have robust data for post-game reconstruction.
* Partner with designers and developers to refine mechanics that accurately reflect Marine Corps capabilities while remaining intuitive and "playable" for senior stakeholders and lead the test and an evaluation process of a game design prior to gameplay. Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's Degree in International Relations, Military Studies, Computer Science, Data Science, and at least 4 years' experience in wargaming, military modeling and simulation, or similar capability. A minimum of 10 years of related experience in lieu of degree.
* Technical Tool Kit experience (Proficiency with graphic design and layout software (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, Power Point, etc.) to produce professional-grade player aids and products.)
* Demonstrated capacity to quickly learn, master, and operate new software-based modeling and simulation tools.
* Experience developing player-facing products, reference guides, or game mechanics manuals.
* Ability to provide examples of product development work (I.e. reference guides, branded materials, etc.) Preferred Qualifications: * Familiarity with the transition from analog tabletop exercises (TTX) to integrated digital environments.
* Experience with government-provided simulation tools such as AFSIM, Command PE, or similar platforms.
* Prior experience supporting the Marine Corps or other Federal wargaming entities.
* The ability to conduct research and capture detailed data inputs needed for game fidelity and coordinating with intel branches to capture detailed data for game play.
* Familiarity in government and commercial game engines Clearance Requirements: Must have a current/active TS/SCI security clearance with the ability to obtain SAP. Physical Requirements: The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time. Occasionally move about inside the office or wargaming facility to access file cabinets, office machinery, or to communicate with co-workers, management, and customers, via email, phone, and or virtual communication, which may involve delivering presentations.

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