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Game Mathematician Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

... game * Expert in C++, debugging, and 3D mathematics * Enjoy working closely with creative and technical team members * Value lean, simple, efficient, well‑tested code * Strong written and verbal ...

... game protection procedures * Ability to shuffle and deal cards repetitively * Ability to deal rapidly and effectively * Ability to cut chips quickly and accurately * Ability to perform mathematical ...

Gameplay Programmer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$136K - $151K/yr

Bachelor's degree in CS, Math, Engineering, etc. or equivalent ability or experience * Minimum of 2 years game industry experience, or equivalent * Ability to prioritize, plan, and organize work

Gameplay Programmer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$136K - $151K/yr

Bachelor's degree in CS, Math, Engineering, etc. or equivalent ability or experience * Minimum of 2 years game industry experience, or equivalent * Ability to prioritize, plan, and organize work

... game protection procedures * Ability to shuffle and deal cards repetitively * Ability to deal rapidly and effectively * Ability to cut chips quickly and accurately * Ability to perform mathematical ...

... game protection procedures * Ability to shuffle and deal cards repetitively * Ability to deal rapidly and effectively * Ability to cut chips quickly and accurately * Ability to perform mathematical ...

Gameplay Engineer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$78.39 - $202.90/hr

Experience bringing a large‑scale game title to completion on PC and consoles. * Expert in C++, debugging, and 3D math. * Enjoy working closely with creative and technical team members. * Strong ...

Lead UX/Game Designer

Glendale, CA · On-site +1

$140K - $165K/yr

... My Math Academy ® , My Reading Academy ® , and My Reading Academy Español ® . Having served ... The Lead UX/Game Designer will work across all of ABCmouse's game experiences: improving existing ...

Lead UX/Game Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

... My Math Academy ® , My Reading Academy ® , and My Reading Academy Español ® . Having served ... The Lead UX/Game Designer will work across all of ABCmouse's game experiences: improving existing ...

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Game Mathematician information

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$37

How much do game mathematician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for game mathematician in California is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game mathematician?

A Game Mathematician designs the mathematical models behind casino, slot, and video games to ensure balanced gameplay, fairness, and profitability. They use probability, statistics, and game theory to develop game mechanics, payout structures, and return-to-player (RTP) percentages. Their work involves creating simulations, analyzing data, and collaborating with game designers and developers to optimize player engagement.

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

To thrive as a Game Mathematician, you need a strong background in mathematics or statistics, proficiency in probability theory, and usually a relevant degree such as mathematics, statistics, or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools like spreadsheets, simulation software, game development platforms, and programming languages such as Python or C++ is highly desirable. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure the development of fair, engaging, and compliant game mechanics that meet both business objectives and regulatory standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by game mathematicians in the gaming industry?

Game Mathematicians often face the challenge of balancing mathematical precision with player engagement, as games must be both profitable and enjoyable. They are responsible for developing and testing game algorithms to ensure fairness and compliance with regulations, often requiring close collaboration with game designers, artists, and developers. Balancing the theoretical aspects of probability and payout structures with the practical considerations of playability and user experience is a key part of the role. By working in cross-functional teams and adapting to feedback, Game Mathematicians help create successful and entertaining gaming experiences.

How much do game mathematicians make?

Game mathematicians typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in algorithms and physics may earn higher salaries, especially in major gaming hubs or tech companies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Mathematician jobs in California?

The most popular types of Game Mathematician jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Game Mathematician jobs in California?

For Game Mathematician jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Game Mathematician jobs?

Cities in California with the most Game Mathematician job openings:

Infographic showing various Game Mathematician job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,990 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Associate Game Designer, Technical

Naughty Dog

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$37 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prototyping, implementing, and owning gameplay scenarios, narrative sequences, interactive objects, and AI behaviors

  • Collaborating with the Design team to conceptualize, prototype, implement, tune, and balance gameplay mechanics and systems

  • Communicating with animation, programming, and art departments to effectively produce the assets and code support required for the areas you're owning


Job description

This position is for temporary engagement through our staffing partner, Yoh Enterprise Solutions. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States for this position.
This is a hybrid / onsite position.
For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been crafting best-selling, critically acclaimed games that constantly push the boundaries of narrative, gameplay, and technology. Naughty Dog recently released The Last of Us Part II Remastered as well as a current generation remake of The Last of Us Part I for the PS5. We're also proud to say that The Last of Us Part I is now available for the first time on PC.
Naughty Dog games have long been lauded for their evocative, character-driven stories and attention to detail. We are committed to innovation within our games and as such have curated some of the top creative and technically innovative minds in the industry. We welcome diverse candidates and believe that a broad range of cultural and life experiences contribute to the overall well-being and success of the studio and the titles we craft together.
In this role you'll be responsible for prototyping gameplay using our in-house tools and scripting language, which could range from combat encounters to narrative sequences to player mechanics and enemy behaviors. Then working across departments to bring your prototypes into production and polish your work to the high level of quality Naughty Dog is known for. We're looking for self-motivated, proactive designers who enjoy creating unique experiences and can combine their technical and creative skills while iterating rapidly.
What you will do
  • Prototyping, implementing, and owning gameplay scenarios, narrative sequences, interactive objects, and AI behaviors
  • Collaborating with the Design team to conceptualize, prototype, implement, tune, and balance gameplay mechanics and systems
  • Communicating with animation, programming, and art departments to effectively produce the assets and code support required for the areas you're owning
  • Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed

What skills will you use
  • Significant programming ability (Computer Science undergraduate degree preferred)
  • Knowledge of 3D math
  • Experience with C++, C#, Lua, or other scripting language
  • Broad understanding of gaming landscape
  • Self-starter with excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • Willingness to take design direction when offered, brainstorm, iterate and come up with fun and creative solutions
  • Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed

Bonus Skills
  • Experience developing third-person action games
  • Experience with 3D level editors
  • Understanding of narrative principles, and conveying emotion through gameplay
  • Experience with the following areas of design
    • Behavior Trees
    • Melee
    • Combat Systems
    • Character animation
    • Enemy & boss design

As part of the Naughty Dog application process, candidates should expect to be given a technical interview
#LI-SP3
At SIE, working with our partners, we consider several factors when setting each role's base pay range, including the competitive benchmarking data for the market and geographic location.
Please note that the individual base pay range may vary based on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location.
In addition, this role is eligible for benefit offerings that include medical, dental, and vision. Click here to learn more.
The estimated base pay range for this role is listed below, this is an hourly rate.
$37-$50 USD
Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process personal information to support these checks.
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