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Game Physics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Virtual Producer

Technical Director - VR

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$225 - $260/hr

Broad understanding of all major facets of large‑scale game engine architecture - game, physics, animation, rendering, engine/system architecture, multi‑platform, network, build environments, etc.

Apex Informatics

Computer Vision Engineer V

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$132K - $156K/yr

OpenCV, Eigen, Halide, Game physics and 3D graphics, CODECs, or Communication) • Prior experience with ARM or Risc-V CPUs, or Tensilica DSP architectures TOP SKILLS 1. Great in Coding / Know C ...

Roblox

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 and exciting. The Physics team develops Roblox's proprietary distributed physics engine. Our team ...

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA

$153K - $206K/yr

Our physics engine enables dynamic environments with emergent behavior making games more immersive and exciting. The Physics team develops Roblox's proprietary distributed physics engine. Our team ...

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$295K - $345K/yr

Our physics engine enables dynamic environments with emergent behavior making games more immersive and exciting. The Physics team develops Roblox's proprietary distributed physics engine. Our team ...

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$345K - $399K/yr

Our physics engine enables dynamic environments with emergent behavior making games more immersive and exciting. The Physics team develops Roblox's proprietary distributed physics engine. Our team ...

Motocol

Gameplay Engineer

Glendale, CA

$25/hr

Game programming skills including 2D and 3D math, physics, FX and UI systems. Strong collaboration skills. A passion for games. Preferred Qualifications: Working prototypes of concepts that showcase ...

Tolan

Principal Gameplay Engineer - Unity

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

... motion - think "game feel" in the Super Meat Boy/Balatro/Hades sense: tight, expressive, and ... Have experience with procedural animation and physics-based motion. * Have a strong eye for VFX/UI ...

Skild AI

Simulation Engineer

San Mateo, CA

Deep understanding of commonly used physics engine simulators for robotics. * Technical understanding of different components of a simulation - graphics, physics, etc. * Experience in game ...

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All JobsGame Physics JobsGame Physics Jobs in California

Game Physics information

What is the difference between Game Physics vs Game Programmer?

AspectGame PhysicsGame Programmer
Primary FocusSimulating physical behaviors and interactions in gamesWriting code for game mechanics, systems, and features
Required SkillsPhysics principles, mathematics, simulation techniquesProgramming languages, software development, system design
Work EnvironmentGame development teams, physics engines, simulation toolsGame studios, software development environments
Common CertificationsPhysics or computer science degrees, specialized physics certificationsComputer science degrees, programming certifications

Game Physics specialists focus on creating realistic physical interactions within games, while Game Programmers develop the underlying code and systems that make the game function. Both roles often collaborate closely but have distinct skill sets and responsibilities.

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 calculus), and experience with physics simulations, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, C++ or C# programming, and familiarity with physics middleware such as NVIDIA PhysX is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are key soft skills that help address complex technical challenges and collaborate with designers and artists. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating realistic, performant, and engaging in-game physics that enhance the player's experience.

What is game physics?

Game physics refers to the simulation of physical systems and behaviors within video games. It involves using mathematical models and algorithms to replicate real-world phenomena such as gravity, collisions, movement, and object interactions in a virtual environment. Game physics enhances realism and gameplay by making actions like jumping, falling, and crashing look and feel believable. Developers often use specialized physics engines to handle these complex calculations efficiently.

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

Game Physics Engineers work closely with gameplay programmers, animators, and designers to ensure that physical simulations integrate seamlessly into the game experience. They often participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss technical constraints, optimize performance, and troubleshoot issues related to collisions, character movement, or environmental interactions. Effective communication and iterative problem-solving are key, as adjustments to physics systems may impact gameplay balance or artistic vision. This collaborative environment offers valuable opportunities to learn from other disciplines and contribute directly to the game's feel and realism.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Game Physics jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Physics jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Game Physics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Game Physics job openings:

Game Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Physics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Technical Director, VR & Game Engine Lead

Virtual Producer

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$225K - $260K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Skydance Interactive, a leading virtual‑reality developer, is seeking a Technical Director for our upcoming next‑generation game project.

We pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive culture where collaboration across all disciplines drives innovation.

Responsibilities
  • Lead a team of engineers as part of a cross‑disciplinary game development team
  • Oversee game runtime, tools/infrastructure and team workflow
  • Coordinate with the Creative Director, Art Director, Senior Producer and other project leadership to identify team needs, set team goals and feature specifications
  • Determine team policy and practice with all technical matters – specs for art and design, code standards, code reviews, etc. within the framework of overall company best practices
  • Collaborate with other project TDs and Architect(s) on shared company technology and process decisions, under the Chief Technologist
  • Help build the engineering team, including interviewing and hiring engineers
  • Mentor and develop engineering talent within the team
  • Hands‑on coding as appropriate
Qualifications
  • BS/MS in Computer Science or related field
  • 7+ years of experience
  • Shipped at least one PC or Console game in Senior or Lead capacity
  • Broad understanding of all major facets of large‑scale game engine architecture – game, physics, animation, rendering, engine/system architecture, multi‑platform, network, build environments, etc.
  • Excellent skills in C++ programming and object‑oriented architecture
  • Excellent math skills
  • Detail‑oriented planner with sound technical judgment in estimating task complexity
  • Strong personal communication skills
  • Leadership experience directing other engineers
  • Impeccable work ethic and commitment to excellence
Plusses
  • Unreal Engine expertise
  • PS5 or Xbox Series X experience
  • VR experience
  • Prior director‑level leadership experience

Salary range: $225,000 – $260,000 (Los Angeles). Base salary only; total compensation may vary.

We welcome applicants who do not meet all of the listed qualifications but can bring unique experiences. Skydance is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce. Applicants are considered based on qualifications, not on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, military status, or disability.

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