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Game Physics Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or ... OpenCV, Eigen, Halide, Game physics and 3D graphics, CODECs, or Communication) Prior experience ...

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$153K - $206K/yr

Our physics engine enables dynamic environments with emergent behavior making games more immersive ... You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement ...

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$153K - $206K/yr

Our physics engine enables dynamic environments with emergent behavior making games more immersive ... You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement ...

Computer Vision Engineer V

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$132K - $156K/yr

Top Skill need solid DSP SW Engineer with recent exp in CV Minimum Qualifications: • Bachelor ... OpenCV, Eigen, Halide, Game physics and 3D graphics, CODECs, or Communication) • Prior experience ...

... developers and creators. At Roblox, we're building the tools and platform that empower our ... Our physics engine enables dynamic environments with emergent behavior making games more immersive ...

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 ... Optimization, networking, UI/UX, AI, generative AI, physics, data management, graphics, gameplay ...

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 ... Optimization, networking, UI/UX, AI, generative AI, physics, data management, graphics, gameplay ...

$125 - $150/hr

Strong understanding of physics systems and simulation principles, with the ability to develop and ... Experience integrating and supporting game assets, interactive objects, and technical content ...

Basic game math fundamentals (vectors, matrices, physics, projections, camera space, tangent space ... Understanding of concurrent programming * Basic relational database abilities (SQL, Postgres or AWS ...

What You Will Do As a Game Mathematician , you will play a key role in shaping the player ... physics) * Solid experience with MS Excel and basic programming knowledge (C++, C#, or similar ...

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$125K - $139K/yr

We are actively staffing up for both in-house game development and supporting published titles ... Solid understanding of 3D math, physics, animation integration, and player systems. * Proven ...

Showing results 21-40

Game Physics Programmer information

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$11K

$92.6K

$173.5K

How much do game physics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for game physics programmer in the United States is $92,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,000.00 and $145,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game physics programmer?

Game Physics Programmers are specialized software developers who design and implement the physics systems that make video games feel realistic and immersive. They create the algorithms and code that simulate real-world behaviors like gravity, collisions, movement, and object interactions within a game engine. Their work ensures that players experience believable and engaging gameplay, whether it's a car crashing, a ball bouncing, or a character jumping. Game Physics Programmers often collaborate with other developers, artists, and designers to fine-tune these systems for optimal performance and realism.

How does a game physics programmer typically collaborate with other departments during game development?

Game Physics Programmers work closely with game designers, animators, and gameplay engineers to ensure realistic and performant physics simulations. They frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to understand gameplay needs and technical constraints, translating these into robust physics systems. This collaboration often involves troubleshooting issues, optimizing performance, and iterating on features based on direct feedback from other teams, making strong communication skills essential for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game physics programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Physics Programmer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics (especially linear algebra and physics), and proficiency in programming languages like C++ or C#. Familiarity with game engines (such as Unreal Engine or Unity), physics middleware (like Havok or PhysX), and debugging tools is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills in this role. These competencies enable accurate, realistic, and performant simulation of physical systems, which is crucial for immersive and engaging gameplay.

What is the difference between Game Physics Programmer vs Game Engine Developer?

AspectGame Physics ProgrammerGame Engine Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Physics, or related field; knowledge of physics and programmingBachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering; strong programming skills
Work EnvironmentFocus on physics simulation, collision detection, and real-time physics integration within gamesDevelops core engine systems, including rendering, physics, and tools for game development
Industry UsageUsed in game studios to implement physics features for gameplay and realismUsed across game studios and engine companies to build and maintain game development platforms

Game Physics Programmers specialize in implementing physics systems within games, focusing on realism and performance. In contrast, Game Engine Developers create the underlying platforms that support various game features, including physics. While both roles require strong programming skills and knowledge of game development, their focus areas differ significantly, with Physics Programmers honing in on physics-specific tasks and Engine Developers working on broader engine architecture.

What are popular job titles related to Game Physics Programmer jobs?

For Game Physics Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Game Physics Programmer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,636 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty in Game Programming

Chicago, IL • On-site

DePaul University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

391st of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Computing (SoC) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Programming, Health Informatics, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Systems, Information Technology, Intelligent Systems Engineering, Network Engineering and Security, and Software Engineering. Find out more about SoC at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Computing.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Application Instructions
We offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in Game Programming.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Game Programming trains students in the fundamentals of programming with a focus towards the interdisciplinary aspect of game development. Gameplay programmers bring their technical understanding of game internals to the problem of delivering engaging game experiences to players. Throughout the program, students collaborate on interdisciplinary teams with programmers, artists, game designers, producers, writers, and audio designers. Areas of study include level design, game scripting, computer graphics development, tool making, game physics, and artificial intelligence programming.
The Master of Science degree in Game Programming is designed for those interested in game programming at the highest level, including real time computing, computer graphics and professionals retooling for the game industry. Students learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture and networking. The game programing degree addresses the real-world needs of industry through special, topic-based classes. Courses are taught with a mixture of theory and applied practice. Covering both emerging trends and proven knowledge, the program's content is always relevant and current. This combination of approaches allows students to understand the connection between realized applied systems and issues they'll likely face professionally in years to come.
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).

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