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Game Developer Jobs in Novato, CA (NOW HIRING)

YO AI Labs

Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$78K - $102K/yr

Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer Job Type: Contractor Location: Remote Job Summary: In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Unity Engineer Role: We are looking for an experienced game engineer with strong C# and Unity skills. You will be working closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to build out our upcoming ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Unity Engineer Role: We are looking for an experienced game engineer with strong C# and Unity skills. You will be working closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to build out our upcoming ...

Echtra Games

Gameplay Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... small game studio in San Francisco seeking a Gameplay Engineer to help maintain Torchlight 3 and shape the future of the company. The role involves collaborating with engineers, designers, and ...

Echtra Games

Gameplay Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... game studio in San Francisco seeking a Gameplay Engineer to help maintain Torchlight 3 and craft future projects. The role involves collaborating with engineers, designers, and artists to enhance ...

2K

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA

$85K - $126K/yr

As a Gameplay Engineer at Cloud Chamber you will bridge the gap between technical execution and ... Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ...

Cloud Chamber

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

As a Gameplay Engineer at Cloud Chamber you will bridge the gap between technical execution and ... Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ...

2K

Gameplay Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$85K - $126K/yr

As a Gameplay Engineer at Cloud Chamber you will bridge the gap between technical execution and ... Keep current on technological developments and advancements in the game industry. * Identify ...

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All JobsGame Developer JobsGame Developer Jobs in Novato, CA

Game Developer information

See Novato, CA salary details

$38.2K

$127.4K

$211.3K

How much do game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for game developer in Novato, CA is $127,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game developer?

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.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game developer?

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.

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 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.

Is a 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 field offers opportunities for creativity and growth, but it can also involve long hours and competitive job markets. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those passionate about gaming and technology.

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.
More about Game Developer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs in Novato, CA?

The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in Novato, CA are:

What cities near Novato, CA are hiring for Game Developer jobs?

Cities near Novato, CA with the most Game Developer job openings:

Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Developer job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,352 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer

YO AI Labs

San Francisco, CA • Remote

$78K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer

Job Type: Contractor

Location: Remote

Job Summary: In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models learn, reason, and perform through high-quality, real-world input. No prior experience in AI is required — your domain knowledge is what matters.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Develop and refine game logic, mechanics, and features using Cocos2d-x for prototype and production-level projects.
  2. Collaborate closely with the customer's team to provide high-quality real-world input for AI training processes.
  3. Create, modify, and troubleshoot game assets and scenes to support a diverse set of training objectives.
  4. Test, debug, and optimize Cocos2d-x code to ensure robust and efficient gameplay experiences.
  5. Document code and processes thoroughly, ensuring clarity for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  6. Engage in open, clear written and verbal communication to report project status and challenges.
  7. Work iteratively in response to feedback, consistently improving deliverables for AI development needs.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

  1. Solid knowledge of Cocos2d-x and hands-on experience with 2D game development workflows.
  2. Strong problem solving and troubleshooting abilities in a game development context.
  3. Experience collaborating remotely with distributed teams in a fast-paced environment.
  4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on clear, concise updates and documentation.
  5. Ability to follow technical specifications and adapt to evolving project requirements.
  6. Understanding of game design principles and player experience optimization.
  7. Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to grow within a dynamic AI training environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  1. Experience working on projects for AI training or data generation purposes.
  2. Familiarity with additional game engines or programming languages.
  3. Background in collaborating with AI or machine learning specialists.