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Game Engine Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

Senior Software Engineer, Engine Systems

San Mateo, CA · Hybrid

$139K - $183K/yr

Develop engine code that performs well for all user-created games on the Roblox platform. * Build the core systems and data structures used in the Roblox engine, working with other teams to find ...

Roblox

Software Engineering Manager, Engine UI

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$118K - $158K/yr

In this role, you will be responsible for leading the development of our state-of-the-art game engine, building out User Interface capabilities across all of Roblox. No matter the platform, be it ...

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$153K - $206K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer of the Game Engine data model team, you will innovate on the core data structures that form the backbone of Roblox's platform. In this role you will have first hand ...

2K

Senior Engine Programmer

Novato, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Work closely with other game developers to define and implement the vision of our game. * Maintain and manage our core engine and assist with integrations from Epic. * Partner with the engine ...

2K

Senior Engine Programmer

Novato, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Work closely with other game developers to define and implement the vision of our game. * Maintain and manage our core engine and assist with integrations from Epic. * Partner with the engine ...

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Game Engine information

What is a game engine?

A game engine is a software framework designed to provide the core functionalities needed to develop video games. It typically includes tools and libraries for rendering graphics, simulating physics, handling audio, managing assets, and supporting scripting. By using a game engine, developers can focus on designing gameplay and content rather than building these systems from scratch. Popular examples include Unity, Unreal Engine, and Godot. Game engines are essential for streamlining the game development process and enabling cross-platform compatibility.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working on game engines, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working on game engines often encounter challenges such as balancing performance optimization with feature complexity, ensuring cross-platform compatibility, and maintaining clear documentation for large codebases. Addressing these challenges typically involves close collaboration with other developers, adopting modular design principles, and conducting regular code reviews. Additionally, staying updated with advances in graphics hardware and development tools is crucial for delivering a high-quality, efficient game engine.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Engine Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Engine Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C++ or C#, a solid understanding of computer graphics, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard game engines (such as Unity or Unreal Engine), debugging tools, and version control systems is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for designing innovative features and collaborating with artists and designers. These competencies are crucial for building robust, high-performance engines that power engaging and visually impressive games.

What is the difference between Game Engine vs Game Developer?

AspectGame EngineGame Developer
Primary RoleSoftware framework used to build gamesProfessional who designs, develops, and codes games
Required SkillsProgramming, software architecture, tools integrationProgramming, creative design, problem-solving
Work EnvironmentTools and software development environmentGame studios, independent projects, freelance
CertificationsNone typically required, but programming certifications helpComputer science, software engineering degrees often preferred

While a game engine is a software platform that provides the tools to create games, a game developer is a professional who uses these tools to design and build games. The game engine is the foundation, whereas the game developer is the creator leveraging that foundation to produce interactive entertainment.

What are popular job titles related to Game Engine jobs in California? For Game Engine jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Engine jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Game Engine jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Game Engine jobs? Cities in California with the most Game Engine job openings:
Game Engine jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Engine job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Senior Software Engineer - Avatar Personalization

Senior Software Engineer - Avatar Personalization

Roblox

San Mateo, CA • On-site, Remote

$139K - $183K/yr

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

As a Senior Software Engineer on the Avatar Personalization team, you will use the Roblox game engine to build features that push the boundaries of our avatar technology, and build creative systems that make Roblox avatars simple and delightful to use. You will tackle the biggest projects, provide technical leadership, and coordinate with teams across Roblox to build systems used by tens of millions of monthly players and developers.

You are passionate about building outstanding systems and APIs in the Roblox game engine, enhancing avatar features, and enriching customization systems for Roblox players and developers. You'll work with Avatar technologies such as animation, clothing, hair, and shading. Experience in game or film development is especially translatable into this team and role.

You Will:

  • Implement groundbreaking features in Roblox game engine to build the best avatar system in the world
  • Build APIs for Roblox developers enabling in-experience creation of Roblox Avatars from scratchEnhance avatar fidelity and uniqueness on Roblox
  • Use the Roblox game engine to build excellent vertical applications for multiple platforms (mobile, tablet, PC, and console)
  • Refactor and improve our existing codebaseImprove system reliability, performance, and test coverage
  • Work with numerous teams to help build the world's best user generated gaming platform
  • Implement systems in a combination of C++ and Lua

You Have:

  • 5+ years of professional experience working on a consumer-facing game engine and/or game application
  • Proficiency with C++, 3D math, data structures, algorithms, and networking
  • Experience working on character building and customization systems, editors, and content creation tools
  • Experience building online console or mobile game titles
  • Experience with game or film character systems such as animation, rigid-body or cloth/hair physics, or shading

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