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Game Programmer Jobs in Cary, NC (NOW HIRING)

Gameplay Programmer Intern

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$119K - $132K/yr

We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development. ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly ...

Gameplay Programmer Intern

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$119K - $132K/yr

We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development. ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly ...

AI Programmer

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$119K - $132K/yr

ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and ...

ENGINEERING - EPIC GAMES SERVICES What We Do Driving the plug-in power behind Unreal Engine 5. We bridge connections for licensees and our own internal game teams to online services. This allows ...

They are seeking a Senior Gameplay Engineer who will collaborate with designers and the engineering ... Preferred : โ€ข Bonus if you helped grow and maintain a live service game. โ€ข Bonus: Previous ...

ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and ...

... with engineering, animation, VFX, audio, art, and other disciplines to bring features to life ... Contribute to broader product and gameplay decisions by identifying opportunities, evaluating trade ...

Gameplay Engineering Lead

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

As a Lead Gameplay Programmer, you will be in a leadership role on a small and focused team, playing a critical role in driving current and future projects. You will be responsible for driving core ...

Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make ... ENGINEERING - UNREAL ENGINE What We Do Unreal-powered projects have been on the bleeding edge of ...

Senior Game Security Engineer

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for a Senior Security Engineer focused on Game Security to develop and improve anti-cheat capabilities within our games. Your efforts will be critical to the ...

Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make ... PROGRAMMING - UNREAL ENGINE What We Do Unreal-powered projects have been on the bleeding edge of ...

... game. * Strong programming skills in C++ and deep familiarity with Unreal Engine systems. * Deep understanding of player-centric gameplay systems. * Collaborative mindset with the ability to ...

You will gain invaluable experiences working alongside Artists, Engineers, Designers, Producers ... Passion for games with a specific focus on competitive, skill based games * Strong interest in ...

... game. * Strong programming skills in C++ and deep familiarity with Unreal Engine systems. * Deep understanding of player-centric gameplay systems. * Collaborative mindset with the ability to ...

... game. * Strong programming skills in C++ and deep familiarity with Unreal Engine systems. * Deep understanding of player-centric gameplay systems. * Collaborative mindset with the ability to ...

ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and ...

Build a playable vision by testing fun through rapid prototyping and iterating alongside skilled engineering and art teams * Establish extensible game paradigms that can be added to for years at high ...

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Game Programmer information

See Cary, NC salary details

$10.2K

$85.8K

$160.7K

How much do game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for game programmer in Cary, NC is $85,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22,200.00 and $134,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game programmer?

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.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game programmer?

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.

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.

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.

Is a game programmer a good career?

A game programmer develops software for video games, often requiring skills in programming languages like C++ and knowledge of game engines such as Unity or Unreal. The field offers opportunities for creativity and technical growth, with job prospects influenced by industry demand and experience levels. It can be a rewarding career for those passionate about gaming and technology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Programmer jobs in Cary, NC?

The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs in Cary, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Game Programmer jobs in Cary, NC?

For Game Programmer jobs in Cary, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Game Programmer jobs in Cary, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Programmer jobs in Cary, NC are:

What cities near Cary, NC are hiring for Game Programmer jobs?

Cities near Cary, NC with the most Game Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Game Programmer job openings in Cary, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,819 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Gameplay Programmer Intern

Epic Games

Cary, NC โ€ข On-site

$119K - $132K/yr

Internship

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?
At the core of Epic's success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we're always innovating.
Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.
ENGINEERING - GAMES
What We Do
Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and technology that empower content developers worldwide.
GAMEPLAY PROGRAMMER INTERN
What You'll Do
We are taking Fortnite Reload to the next level with continuous live improvements and additions. As a Gameplay Programmer Intern, you will contribute to the development of core gameplay features for our updates and get hands-on experience working alongside other programmers, designers, and artists.
In this role, you will
  • Assist in prototyping and implementing gameplay features in collaboration with art and design
  • Help debug, test, and fix bugs in gameplay systems
  • Learn to write clean, maintainable C code in Unreal Engine
  • Participate in team discussions, offering ideas and feedback
What we're looking for
  • Strong C++ knowledge
  • Interest in gameplay programming
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Passion for learning things and delivering results
  • Great interpersonal and communication skills, with demonstrated ability to communicate within a team
  • The ability to react and respond effectively to constructive feedback

This internship has a flexible start date in 2027. Recruitment will be ongoing until teams find an ideal match. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the posting location for the duration of the internship. For more information about Epic's Early Career Program, visit epicgames.com/earlycareers. This is going to be Epic!
ABOUT US
Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.
Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!
Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.
Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.