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Game Developer Jobs in California, MD (NOW HIRING)

SimVentions, Inc

Journeyman Software Developer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site +1

$79K - $135K/yr

Proficiency in one or more programming languages such as C, C++, Python, or Rust (if no C or C ... S. military, and we take pride in our ability to provide relevant, game-changing solutions to our ...

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All JobsGame Developer JobsGame Developer Jobs in California, MD

Game Developer information

See California, MD salary details

$31.1K

$103.9K

$172.5K

How much do game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for game developer in California, MD is $103,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,100.00 and $118,800.00 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 cities near California, MD are hiring for Game Developer jobs? Cities near California, MD with the most Game Developer job openings:
Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Developer job openings in California, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,946 per year, or $50 per hour.
Journeyman Software Developer

Journeyman Software Developer

SimVentions, Inc

Dahlgren, VA

$79K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

SimVentions is 100% employee-owned and proudly ranked among Virginia’s Best Places to Work year after year! We are actively seeking a strong junior to mid-level software developer with experience in software design, development, testing, and troubleshooting. The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in programming principles and hands-on experience working with hardware control systems and device interfaces.


10%

An ACTIVE Secret Clearance is required for this position. Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. US Citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.


  • 3–8 years of software development experience
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages such as C, C++, Python, or Rust (if no C or C++ experience)
  • Experience developing applications that communicate with hardware devices, controllers, sensors, or industrial equipment
  • Ability to diagnose and resolve software and hardware integration issues
  • Ability to learn new languages and technologies
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work with others to meet established goals and program schedules

  • Develop and maintain software applications that interface with hardware systems
  • Design, implement, and test device communication and control functionality
  • Troubleshoot software, hardware, and integration issues
  • Collaborate with engineering and technical teams to deliver reliable solutions
  • Participate in code reviews, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives

  • Knowledge of hardware interfaces and robotics
  • Experience with computer vision
  • Experience developing code for Navy or DoD systems

A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from an accredited college or university in an engineering, scientific, or technical discipline is required.

Compensation at SimVentions is determined by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, education, training, security clearance, work location, skills, knowledge, and competencies, as well as alignment with our corporate compensation plan and contract specific requirements.

The projected annual compensation range for this position is $79,000 - $135,000 (USD). This estimate reflects the standard salary range for this position and is just one component of the total compensation package that SimVentions offers. 


At SimVentions, we’re committed to supporting the total well-being of our employees and their families. Our benefit offerings include comprehensive health and welfare plans to serve a variety of needs. 


We offer:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Competitive 401(k) programs
  • Retirement and Financial Counselors
  • Health Savings and Health Reimbursement Accounts
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life insurance, short- & long-term disability
  • Continuing Education Assistance
  • Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Leave (e.g., Maternity, Paternity, Jury Duty, Bereavement, Military)
  • Third Party Employee Assistance Program that offers emotional and lifestyle well-being services, to include free counseling
  • Supplemental Benefit Program 

SimVentions is about more than just being a place to work with other growth-orientated technically exceptional experts. It’s also a fun place to work. Our family-friendly atmosphere encourages our employee-owners to imagine, create, explore, discover, and do great things together.

Support Our Warfighters

SimVentions is a proud supporter of the U.S. military, and we take pride in our ability to provide relevant, game-changing solutions to our armed men and women around the world.

Drive Customer Success

We deliver innovative products and solutions that go beyond the expected. This means you can expect to work with a team that will allow you to grow, have a voice, and make an impact.
Get Involved in Giving Back

We believe a well-rounded company starts with well-rounded employees, which is why we offer diverse service opportunities for our team throughout the year.

Build Innovative Technology

SimVentions takes pride in its innovative and cutting-edge technology, so you can be sure that whatever project you work on, you will be having a direct impact on our customer’s success.

Work with Brilliant People

We don’t just hire the smartest people; we seek experienced, creative individuals who are passionate about their work and thrive in our unique culture.

Create Meaningful Solutions

We are trusted partners with our customers and are provided challenging and meaningful requirements to help them solve.

Employees who join SimVentions will enjoy additional perks like:

  • Employee Ownership: Work with the best and help build YOUR company!
  • Family focus: Work for a team that recognizes the importance of family time.
  • Culture: Add to our culture of technical excellence and collaboration.
  • Dress code: Business casual, we like to be comfortable while we work.
  • Resources:  Excellent facilities, tools, and training opportunities to grow in your field.
  • Open communication: Work in an environment where your voice matters.
  • Corporate Fellowship:  Opportunities to participate in company sports teams and employee-led interest groups for personal and professional development.
  • Employee Appreciation: Multiple corporate events throughout the year, including Holiday Events, Company Picnic, Imagineering Day, and more.
  • Founding Partner of the FredNats Baseball team: Equitable distribution of tickets for every home game to be enjoyed by our employee-owners and their families from our private suite.
  • Food: We have a lot of food around here!

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