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Game Physics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$116.20 - $269.10/hr

Understanding of game asset pipelines. * Deep knowledge of animation, physics, AI, and/or networking. Location State(s): USโ€‘Californiaโ€‘Irvine Compensation The expected base pay range for this ...

... 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 ...

Senior Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

... and physics Passionate video game enthusiast Bonus Points Scripting languages (C#, Lua, Perl, Python) Audio experience (Fabric, FMOD, Wwise) Engine experience (CryEngine, Unity, Unreal Engine ...

Senior Software Engineer

Moorpark, CA ยท On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

... and physics Passionate video game enthusiast Bonus Points Scripting languages (C#, Lua, Perl, Python) Audio experience (Fabric, FMOD, Wwise) Engine experience (CryEngine, Unity, Unreal Engine ...

Senior Software Engineer

Moorpark, CA ยท On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

... and physics Passionate video game enthusiast Bonus Points Scripting languages (C#, Lua, Perl, Python) Audio experience (Fabric, FMOD, Wwise) Engine experience (CryEngine, Unity, Unreal Engine ...

Senior Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

... and physics Passionate video game enthusiast Bonus Points Scripting languages (C#, Lua, Perl, Python) Audio experience (Fabric, FMOD, Wwise) Engine experience (CryEngine, Unity, Unreal Engine ...

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

Showing results 21-40

Game Physics information

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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Game Physics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Senior Gameplay Software Engineer - Multi-Platform (Unreal)

2K Games

Novato, CA โ€ข On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Who We Are 2K is headquartered in Novato, California and is a wholly owned label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO). Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of the most influential game development studios in the world. Our studios responsible for developing 2K's portfolio of world-class games across multiple platforms, include Visual Concepts, Firaxis, Hangar 13, CatDaddy, Cloud Chamber, 31st Union, and HB Studios.

Our portfolio of titles is expanding due to our global strategic plan, building and acquiring exciting studios whose content continues to inspire all of us! 2K publishes titles in today's most popular gaming genres, including sports, shooters, action, role-playing, strategy, casual, and family entertainment.

Our team of engineers, marketers, artists, writers, data scientists, producers, thinkers and doers, are the professional publishing stewards of our growing library of critically-acclaimed franchises such as NBA 2K, 2K PGA, Battleborn, BioShock, Borderlands, The Quarry, The Darkness, Mafia, Sid Meier's Civilization, Marvel's Midnight Suns, WWE 2K, and XCOM. At 2K, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive work environment, which means encouraging our teams to Come as You Are and do your best work!

We encourage ALL applicants to explore our global positions, even if they don't meet every requirement for the role. If you're interested in the job and think you have what it takes to work at 2K, we encourage you to apply! Mass Media is the premier engineering group for 2K Publishing's Global Services. Since 1995, we've developed deep and multifaceted engineering expertise in video games. Whether it's platform optimization, multiplayer/networking, rendering, console certification, tools, and pipelines โ€“ we've done it all!

Because we're part of Global Services Technology, we're at the heart of all our games. We provide the engineering to support the matrix of platforms and storefronts of today, innovative technical solutions to the problems of tomorrow, and connective tissue across 2K's studios! In short, when some of the best studios in the world have needs, we can answer the call. What We Need We are looking for a passionate software engineer who has a high bar for the quality of their code as well as a desire to make outstanding games.

In this role you will collaborate with fellow engineers and producers to address a wide variety of engineering challenges such as online multiplayer, performance optimization, and console porting. If you're looking to expand your skill set, push your limits in taking on the toughest problems that no one else wants to tackle, and get your hands on some exceptional IP, then this is right position for you.

What You Will Do

Drive designated software development projects across the 2K ecosystem, occasionally supporting multiple at the same time Lead implementation of in-game functionality across multiple console platforms and PC storefronts Collaborate with programmers across 2K to build tools, architect and establish gameplay frameworks, address systemic issues and implement new features Analyze game performance and implement optimizations in both high and low-level code to compensate Design and build standalone tools as needed to assist project development Help design and implement code for multi-processor environments Uplevel the team through mentorship and collaborative exploration to achieve team, project, and studio goals What Will Make You a Great Fit Excellent programming skills in C/C++ Strong experience with Unreal Engine Development Expert in multi-threaded architecture High level of comfort working in large codebases with multiple branches Quick adaptability to new coding environments and programming standards Debugging experience with an ability to quickly locate, replicate, and fix bugs (PIX, RAD, Visual Studio) Experience developing on and shipping at least two console titles (Nintendo, Sony, Xbox) Proven familiarity with essential game technology systems such as 3D math, audio processing, graphics and physics Passionate video game enthusiast Bonus Points Scripting languages (C#, Lua, Perl, Python) Audio experience (Fabric, FMOD, Wwise) Engine experience (CryEngine, Unity, Unreal Engine) Physics experience (Bullet, Havok, PhysX) Working experience in multiplayer gaming Source control experience (GitHub, Perforce, SVN) Familiarity with AI, data manipulation, file systems, networking, streaming As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to ensuring that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform their essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Please contact us if you need reasonable accommodation. Please note that 2K Games and its studios never uses instant messaging apps or personal email accounts to contact prospective employees or conduct interviews and when emailing, only use 2K.com accounts. The pay range for this position in California at the start of employment is expected to be between $100,000 and $150,000 per Year.

However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits.

Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an at-will position and the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.