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Game Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motocol

Gameplay Engineer

Glendale, CA

$25/hr

Production-level ability in one game programming language, such as C#. Working knowledge of development tools and environments such as Unity. Passion for developing player feedback / game feel. Game ...

Tencent

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $347K/yr

Experience bringing multiple large-scale game titles to completion on PC and consoles * 7+ years of professional game programming experience * Experience managing direct reports * Experience ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

You deeply understand Unity We're looking for someone with 5+ years of programming experience and a high level of familiarity with Unity. A good candidate must have shipped at least one game with ...

LightSpeed Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $347K/yr

Experience bringing multiple large-scale game titles to completion on PC and consoles * 7+ years of professional game programming experience * Experience managing direct reports * Experience ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

You deeply understand Unity We're looking for someone with 5+ years of programming experience and a high level of familiarity with Unity. A good candidate must have shipped at least one game with ...

Amazon

Game Designer, Amazon Game Studios

Culver City, CA

$169K/yr

Working in a publishing capacity, you'll establish respectful and collaborative relationships with world-class game developers. You thrive in an entrepreneurial environment and will collaborate with ...

Amazon

Game Designer, Amazon Game Studios

Culver City, CA

$169K/yr

Working in a publishing capacity, you'll establish respectful and collaborative relationships with world-class game developers. You thrive in an entrepreneurial environment and will collaborate with ...

Amazon

Game Designer, Amazon Game Studios

Culver City, CA · On-site

$169K/yr

Key job responsibilities Key job responsibilities: - Partner with and help guide external game developers to ideate, design, and launch great original casual games on Luna including Amazon GameNight ...

Tencent

Senior Gameplay Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$137K - $257K/yr

... game programming experience * Experience bringing a large-scale game title to completion on PC and consoles * Expert in C++, debugging, and 3D math * Enjoy working closely with creative and technical ...

Unbroken Studios

Senior Engineer (UI)

El Segundo, CA

$138K - $172K/yr

Skills Knowledge and Expertise * 5 to 8+ years game programming experience and at least one shipped title * Self-motivated with a strong work ethic * Excellent communication and team skills

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All JobsGame Programming JobsGame Programming Jobs in California

Game Programming information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$91.4K

$171.2K

How much do game programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for game programming in California is $91,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,700.00 and $143,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 field.

What is the difference between Game Programming vs Software Development?

AspectGame ProgrammingSoftware Development
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, programming skills, knowledge of game enginesBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, programming skills, software engineering knowledge
Work EnvironmentGame studios, entertainment industry, collaborative teamsTech companies, various industries, team-based or individual projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in gaming and entertainmentBroad, including finance, healthcare, enterprise apps
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Game programming focuses on creating interactive entertainment using specialized game engines and graphics techniques, while software development encompasses a wide range of applications across industries. Both roles require strong programming skills and similar educational backgrounds, but game programming is more specialized towards gaming platforms and real-time graphics.

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 such as C++, C#, or Java, along with a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems, and debugging tools is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork distinguish outstanding game programmers in collaborative development environments. These skills ensure efficient code development, innovative gameplay experiences, and seamless project execution in the dynamic gaming industry.

How do game programmers typically collaborate with designers and artists during the development process?

Game programmers work closely with designers and artists to bring the creative vision of a game to life. They translate design documents into functional gameplay systems, implement features, and ensure that artistic assets are integrated seamlessly into the game engine. Regular meetings, collaborative tools, and iterative feedback loops are common, allowing teams to quickly identify and resolve issues. Clear communication and flexibility are essential, as requirements often evolve throughout development.

How much do game coders get paid?

Game programmers typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions often start around $50,000, while experienced developers working on advanced games or in major studios can earn higher salaries. Skills in programming languages like C++ and knowledge of game engines such as Unity or Unreal are important for higher pay.

What is game programming?

Game programming is the process of writing code to create video games. Game programmers use programming languages, such as C++ or C#, to develop the mechanics, graphics, physics, and interactions that make up a video game. They work closely with game designers, artists, and sound engineers to bring a game to life, ensuring it runs smoothly and meets the desired gameplay experience. Game programming also involves debugging, optimizing performance, and sometimes creating tools for other team members. It is a key part of the game development process, blending technical skill with creativity.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Game programming involves creative problem-solving, designing, and coding that currently require human expertise. While AI tools can assist with tasks like asset generation and testing, they are unlikely to fully replace game developers, who bring unique creativity and understanding of player experience to the job.

What jobs can a game developer do?

A game developer can work in roles such as gameplay programmer, graphics programmer, AI programmer, tools developer, or technical artist. These positions involve designing, coding, and optimizing game features using programming languages like C++ or C#, often within game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine. Additional roles include quality assurance, technical design, and project management in the gaming industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Programming jobs in California? The most popular types of Game Programming jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Programming jobs in California? For Game Programming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Programming jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Game Programming jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Game Programming jobs? Cities in California with the most Game Programming job openings:
Game Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Programming job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,423 per year, or $44 per hour.
Gameplay Engineer

Gameplay Engineer

Motocol

Glendale, CA

$25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Motocol is recruiting for our client.


Job Description

An ideal candidate has Mobile Unity Game development, C# and a passion for games, mobile or any type. Samples or examples of work - can be from a prototype, in college, etc. Must be able to work collaboratively in a team environment and be willing to learn every day. Ideal candidate is also driven to make games. This position is part technical and part designing for the user.  The Client is seeking a talented Gameplay Engineer (Designer Programmer) to join its team of passionate gamers. Ability to drive gameplay aspects of the game development process. Work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, artists, designers and producers on mobile game projects. Design and build fun features in a high-quality way for our mobile games, participate in weekly sprints, keeping the team updated with your progress. Work with systems and tools used in professional software development, such as source control, issue tracking and others.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 2+ years' experience developing mobile Unity games. Production-level ability in one game programming language, such as C#. Working knowledge of development tools and environments such as Unity. Passion for developing player feedback / game feel. Game design skills - especially mechanics design, prototyping concepts and systems design. 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 rapid iteration process. Experience building and publishing Unity iOS and Android apps or games. Experience C++, Objective C or JAVA, or other coding

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Hourly Bill rate :$25.00

No backround check.

Duration 10 months.




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