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Game Programmer Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton

Autonomy Engineer, Senior

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

... games • Ability to support flight testing and operational evaluations • Master's degree • ML, AI, or Solution Architecture Certification Company : Booz Allen Hamilton is a consulting firm that ...

SAIC

Wargame Designer

Pearl City, HI · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Design: work with customer to define game objectives and build a game structure or framework which ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

Cymertek

Software Developer

Honolulu, HI · On-site

Software Developer LOCATION Honolulu, HI 96815 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Game Development, ect. ALTERNATE EXPERIENCE General comment on degrees: Most contracts allow ...

Cymertek

Software Developer

Honolulu, HI

Software Developer LOCATIONHonolulu, HI 96815 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Game Development, ect.ALTERNATE EXPERIENCEGeneral comment on degrees: Most contracts allow ...

Marriott

Director of Engineering

Lahaina, HI

Ensures integration of departmental goals in game plans. Oversees execution of long term ... Maintaining Engineering Standards Ensures compliance with state, local and federal regulations.

Marriott International

Director of Engineering

Lahaina, HI · On-site

$203K - $271K/yr

... game plans. • Oversees execution of long term preventative maintenance and 10 year asset protection plans. • Reviews financial reports and statements to determine how Engineering is performing ...

Marriott

Director of Engineering

Lahaina, HI · On-site

Ensures integration of departmental goals in game plans. Oversees execution of long term ... Maintaining Engineering Standards Ensures compliance with state, local and federal regulations.

Leidos

Senior Substation Physical Engineer

Honolulu, HI

$103K - $141K/yr

... game to every opportunity Successful candidates can look forward to a fast paced, diverse work ... Engineer in Training Certificate (EIT). * Professional Engineer License (PE). * Project Management ...

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All JobsGame Programmer JobsGame Programmer Jobs in Hawaii

Game Programmer information

See Hawaii salary details

$11.4K

$96.2K

$180.3K

How much do game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for game programmer in Hawaii is $96,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,900.00 and $151,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for game programmers?

Game programmers are in demand due to the growing gaming industry, which continues to expand with advancements in technology such as virtual reality and mobile gaming. Skills in programming languages like C++ and Unity or Unreal Engine are highly valued, and employment opportunities are available in both large studios and indie development. The industry often requires continuous learning to keep up with new tools and platforms.

What is the difference between Game Programmer vs Game Designer?

AspectGame ProgrammerGame Designer
Primary RoleWriting code to develop game mechanics, features, and systemsCreating game concepts, storylines, and gameplay experiences
Required SkillsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software development, problem-solvingCreativity, storytelling, game mechanics design
Work EnvironmentTypically in a development team, coding in studios or remoteDesign studios, collaborative teams, often in creative settings
Common UsageUsed in technical development phasesUsed in conceptual and planning phases

While both roles are essential in game development, game programmers focus on coding and technical implementation, whereas game designers concentrate on creating engaging gameplay and story elements. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and collaboration in the industry.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Game programmers create and implement game features using programming languages and tools, and AI can assist with tasks like procedural content generation and testing. However, human creativity, problem-solving, and design skills remain essential, making complete replacement unlikely in the near future.

What Does a Game Programmer Do?

Game programmers develop video game concepts into functioning programs. A career as a game programmer involves paying close attention to details, analyzing lines of code, and troubleshooting to find solutions. As a game programmer, you use coding languages, such as C++ and Java, to build an interactive gaming experience. There are different kinds of game programmers who have specialized skills to produce a specific purpose in the game, but they all work together to create the final product. For example, some game programmers focus on the 2D and 3D graphics for the game, while others generate user interfaces to make the game fun and easy to use.

What are some common challenges game programmers face when working on large-scale projects?

Game programmers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as optimizing performance for different hardware platforms, managing complex codebases, and ensuring smooth collaboration with designers and artists. Balancing feature implementation with bug fixing and meeting tight deadlines are also common hurdles. Effective communication with other departments and staying up-to-date with evolving game engines and development tools are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering a high-quality product.

How do I become a game programmer?

To become a game programmer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Developing strong programming skills in languages like C++ or C#, gaining experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, and building a portfolio of projects are essential steps in entering the industry.

What are Game Programmers?

Game Programmers are software engineers who specialize in writing code for video games. They work closely with designers, artists, and other team members to turn game concepts into playable experiences by developing game mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. Game Programmers use programming languages such as C++, C#, or Python and may focus on specific areas like gameplay, graphics, physics, or networking. Their work ensures that games run smoothly and are engaging for players.

Is 30 too old to get into game dev?

Game programming is accessible at any age, and many successful developers start later in life. Skills such as programming languages (e.g., C++, C#), understanding game engines like Unity or Unreal, and a strong portfolio are more important than age. Continuous learning and practical experience are key to entering the field regardless of age.

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

To thrive as a Game Programmer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C++ or C#, a solid understanding of computer science principles, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines (such as Unity or Unreal Engine), version control systems, and debugging tools is typically required. Creative problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate with designers and artists to bring game concepts to life. These skills ensure efficient development, smooth gameplay experiences, and successful project delivery within the dynamic gaming industry.
More about Game Programmer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii? For Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii look for? The top searched job categories for Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Programmer jobs in HI? For Game Programmer jobs in HI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Game Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Programmer job openings in Hawaii as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,245 per year, or $46.3 per hour.
Wargame Designer

Wargame Designer

Science Applications International Corporation

Pearl City, HI

Other

Posted 13 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 206 rated it services

Job description

SAIC is currently seeking a Wargame Designer located on Ford Island in Oahu, Hawaii to support the Pacific Warfighting Center (PWC) to provide subject matter expertise and operational support to the design, development, execution, and analysis of internal PACOM wargames and wargame-informed events.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

  • Design, develop, facilitate, adjudicate, and analyze wargames, table-top-exercises, and other similar events, working as part of a team.
    • Design: work with customer to define game objectives and build a game structure or framework which best addresses them.
    • Develop: create written and other products for game participants, such as scenarios, background information, role descriptions, and game rules.
    • Facilitate: lead group discussions and game processes during wargames and TTX events.
    • Adjudicate: apply wargame rules and methods to determine outcomes of participant actions within games.
    • Analyze: build and execute a data capture and analysis plan and generate post-game reporting based on data collected.
  • Plan and execute required wargame support, develop clear and concise written products, and present wargame materials to warfighters in support of wargame objectives.
  • Coordinate with stakeholders, planners, and SMEs in all phases of wargaming processes.  
  • Develop in-game and post-game outputs and reports.
  • Assists with set-up and provides other products for event support.
  • Provides lessons learned, sustains, improves, and other feedback during and following each event.
  • Build event plans and products and works well with others to accomplish wargaming objectives.
  • Leads efforts and is a positive influence within the J73 and event support environment.
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:                                                                                     

  • Bachelor's and ten (10)+ years of experience; additional four (4) years of experience accepted in lieu of degree.
  • Experience designing, developing, testing, executing, and analyzing wargame processes.
  • Experience facilitating wargames and TTXs (Table Top Exercises).
  • Experience with analytical software tools and data management systems.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of military operations.

REQUIRED CLEARANCE:

  • Must have a current Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain a Top Secret/SCI clearance.
  • Must be a current US Citizen.

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