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Game Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Stardock Corporation

Senior Game Developer

Plymouth, MI

$120K - $160K/yr

Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed in C++, has shipped titles in the past and loves strategy games. This is a salaried, full-time ...

Stardock Corporation

Senior Game Developer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed in C++, has shipped titles in the past and loves strategy games. This is a salaried, full-time ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · 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

Ann Arbor, MI · 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

Detroit, MI · 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.

Stardock

Senior Graphics Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

Salary: $100,000 to $200,000 annually Stardock released the first DirectX 12 game as well as the ... We are currently seeking a full-time Senior Graphics Engineer to work on our next generation game ...

MSR Technology Group

Engineer BS Degree

Saline, MI

... games, applications or similar products * Strong understanding of object oriented programming principles * High school diploma or GED equivalent * Basic understanding of CATIA V5 * Ability to work to ...

Hollywood Casino at Greektown

ENGINEER I

Detroit, MI · On-site

Adhere to all regulatory and safety standards and report any unsafe conditions to the Lead Engineer ... STAY IN THE GAME. FOLLOW US. We've grown to become the leading provider of integrated entertainment ...

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All JobsGame Engineer JobsGame Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Game Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$45.8K

$123.7K

$156.5K

How much do game engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for game engineer in Michigan is $123,715.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,300.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Game Engineer, a deep understanding of computer science principles, programming languages like C++ or C#, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field are essential. Familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems, and sometimes certifications in game development are highly valued. Creativity, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for building innovative, high-performance games and collaborating efficiently with multidisciplinary teams.

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. Game engineers often focus on optimizing core mechanics and fixing critical bugs to maximize quality efficiently, using tools like version control and project management software to prioritize tasks.

How do Game Engineers typically collaborate with designers and artists throughout the game development process?

Game Engineers work closely with designers and artists to ensure that technical implementation aligns with creative vision. Collaboration often involves regular meetings to discuss features, rapid prototyping, and integrating assets such as animations or level designs. Engineers provide technical feedback on what is feasible, suggest optimizations, and help troubleshoot issues that arise during development. This cross-functional teamwork is essential for delivering a polished, engaging final product.

What Does a Game Engineer Do?

A game engineer is a software developer that produces video games. As a game engineer, your duties may be in any phase of the game design process. You typically work as part of a large team of engineers, designers, and programmers, carrying out the visual and functional aspects of the video game. Your responsibilities include ensuring that the visual elements of the game are properly designed and can work on various pieces of hardware. Some game engineers work independently, creating smaller games meant to function on a mobile phone or computer. However, to produce games for consoles or performance gaming computers, you must generally work for a larger game design company.

What does a game engineer do?

A game engineer designs, develops, and maintains the software for video games, including gameplay mechanics, graphics, and user interfaces. They often work with programming languages like C++ or C# and use game development tools such as Unity or Unreal Engine to create functional and engaging gaming experiences.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Game engineers design and develop video games, and while AI tools can assist with tasks like coding, testing, and asset generation, they are unlikely to fully replace the creative and problem-solving aspects of game development. Human expertise remains essential for designing engaging gameplay, storytelling, and ensuring quality in the final product.

What is the difference between Game Engineer vs Game Developer?

AspectGame EngineerGame Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; programming skillsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related; programming and design skills
Work EnvironmentDevelops game engines, tools, and core systems; often works closely with programmers and technical teamsDesigns and implements game features, levels, and content; collaborates with artists and designers
Industry UsageCommonly employed in technical roles within game studios, focusing on underlying systemsMore prevalent in creative roles, focusing on gameplay and content creation

While both roles require programming skills and a background in computer science, Game Engineers primarily focus on building the technical infrastructure, such as game engines and tools. Game Developers concentrate on creating gameplay features, levels, and content. The roles often overlap, but Game Engineers tend to work more on the technical backbone, whereas Game Developers focus on the user experience and game design.

Is 30 too old to start game development?

Game engineers can start their careers at any age, including 30 or older. Success in game development depends on skills, portfolio, and experience with tools like Unity or Unreal Engine, rather than age. Many professionals transition into game development later in life and find rewarding careers in the industry.
More about Game Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Game Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Game Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Game Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Engineer jobs in MI? For Game Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Game Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,715 per year, or $59.5 per hour.
Senior Game Developer

Senior Game Developer

Stardock Corporation

Plymouth, MI

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Are you an avid gamer interested in creating awesome games? Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed in C++, has shipped titles in the past and loves strategy games. This is a salaried, full-time position at our Plymouth, Michigan office and relocation assistance will be provided.


Primary Responsibilities Include:

  • Implement low level systems such as windowing, controllers, rendering, audio, and networking.
  • Architect, build and maintain core systems in modern C++ on multicore CPUs.
  • Write technical documents describing core systems.
  • Mentor and collaborate with other developers in a team environment.
  • Work closely with Design, Production, and Art to develop requirements and implementation plans.
  • Manage timelines and milestones to meet stakeholder expectations.
  • Work closely with Production and QA to address bugs.


Education and/or Experience Desired:

  • 7+ years of experience in game or simulation development.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or relevant field.
  • Strong C++ background.
  • Passion for games and game design.
  • Self-motivated and loves solving problems.
  • Experience with modern graphics APIs (DirectX, OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal).
  • Expertise in several of the following: Optimization, networking, UI/UX, AI, generative AI, physics, data management, graphics, gameplay, audio, HLSL/GLSL shaders, pipelines, terrain.
  • Able to learn new technology quickly and execute on a schedule in a fast-paced cross-discipline team environment.
  • Experienced with version control software (e.g. Perforce, SVN, etc.).


The salary for this position ranges from $120,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on your qualifications, experience, and expertise. Stardock is committed to offering a competitive compensation package tailored to the right candidate.

Apply