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Game Programmer Jobs in Tracy, CA (NOW HIRING)

Striking Distance Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$112K - $147K/yr

... game development. Responsibilities : • Lead a team of Gameplay Engineers to create best in class Game Modes. • Lead the overall planning, development, and execution of the game, engine and ...

Babki

Game Tester Gig

Modesto, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Game Tester Gig

Tracy, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Student Game Tester

Modesto, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Game Tester Gig

Modesto, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Online Game Tester

Stockton, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Mobile Game Tester

Walnut Creek, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Mobile Game Tester

Modesto, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Online Game Tester

Stockton, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Online Game Tester

Walnut Creek, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Game Tester Gig

Tracy, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Game Tester Gig

Livermore, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

Babki

Student Game Tester

Modesto, CA · Remote

$500/wk

Become a Professional Game Tester We're looking for passionate gamers to join our elite team of mobile game testers. Get paid to play and test the latest games before they launch. $500+ Avg Monthly ...

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All JobsGame Programmer JobsGame Programmer Jobs in Tracy, CA

Game Programmer information

See Tracy, CA salary details

$11.8K

$99.7K

$186.8K

How much do game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for game programmer in Tracy, CA is $99,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,800.00 and $156,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for game programmers?

Game programmers are in demand due to the growth of the 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 offers roles that often require a strong understanding of software development and game design principles.

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 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.

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.

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 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.
More about Game Programmer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Game Programmer jobs in Tracy, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Game Programmer jobs in Tracy, CA are:
What cities near Tracy, CA are hiring for Game Programmer jobs? Cities near Tracy, CA with the most Game Programmer job openings:
Game Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Programmer job openings in Tracy, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,721 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Striking Distance Studios

San Ramon, CA • On-site

$112K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Striking Distance Studios is a AAA development studio focused on delivering creative excellence in game development. They are looking for a Lead Gameplay Engineer to implement a wide variety of features and systems, leading a team to create best-in-class game modes and ensuring successful project execution.
Responsibilities:
• Lead a team of Gameplay Engineers to create best in class Game Modes.
• Lead the overall planning, development, and execution of the game, engine and architecture.
• Establish tech projects, initiatives, and processes in conformance with the studio’s goals and objectives.
• Take new products and features from the design phase to release.
• Work across disciplines to build, refactor and maintain a variety of robust, flexible, and well-architected gameplay features, including controls, abilities, AI, and RPG systems.
• Prototype and implement different game modes.
• Work with design team on different features like 3Cs, combat systems, inventory, etc. to get the best player experience.
• Implement metagame features, including save systems, game settings, etc.
• Work with UI engineers to integrate HUD elements with gameplay features in the best way.
• Review the work of other engineers and provide mentorship on your area of knowledge.
• Create and maintain technical design documents.
• Delve into code written by other engineers and take ownership of existing systems as needed.
• Keep current on technological developments and advancements.
• Research and develop coding techniques and algorithms.
• Collaborate with technology director on technical design and feature roll out.
• Write clear, maintainable, portable, and highly performant code.
• Communicate accurate status updates to your team leads, producers, and QA regarding tasks/features you are responsible for.
• Adhere to team coding standards and best practices.
• Foster a culture of open, honest, and respectful communication across all disciplines.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer science, or equivalent.
• At least 7 years of games industry experience and preferably 3 years or more in a similar role.
• Advanced leadership skills, including high empathy, strategic thinking, positivity, organization, responsibility and conflict resolution skills.
• At least 1 year of experience with Unreal Engine.
• Experience shipping games on current generation consoles (PS5 or XSX) and PC.
• Expert ability to be self-directed, focused and detail oriented.
• Expert C++ skills.
• 3D math skills.
• Expert verbal and written communications skills.
• A demonstrable love / passion for playing and making video games.
• A highly communicative and collaborative disposition.
Company:
Striking Distance Studios specializes in the development of video and computer games. It is a sub-organization of Krafton. Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in San Ramon, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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