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Game Programming Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Black Girls Code

Camp Counselor -DMV

Washington, DC · On-site

$25/hr

Campers will design original game assets, explore professional game development tools, and walk away with a clear picture of what a career in gaming, engineering, or production could look like for ...

Varsity Tutors

Computer Programming Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes logical thinking and systematic debugging skills and connects programming to web development, data science, game design, and automation applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Varsity Tutors

Computer Programming Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes logical thinking and systematic debugging skills and connects programming to web development, data science, game design, and automation applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Varsity Tutors

Computer Programming Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes logical thinking and systematic debugging skills and connects programming to web development, data science, game design, and automation applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Varsity Tutors

Computer Programming Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes logical thinking and systematic debugging skills and connects programming to web development, data science, game design, and automation applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Varsity Tutors

Computer Programming Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes logical thinking and systematic debugging skills and connects programming to web development, data science, game design, and automation applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

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Game Programming information

See Washington salary details

$12.5K

$104.9K

$196.5K

How much do game programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for game programming in Washington is $104,919.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27,200.00 and $164,800.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Game Programming jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Programming jobs in Washington? For Game Programming jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Programming jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Game Programming jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Game Programming jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Game Programming job openings:
Game Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Programming job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,919 per year, or $50.4 per hour.
Camp Counselor -DMV

Camp Counselor -DMV

Black Girls Code

Washington, DC • On-site

$25/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description


ABOUT BLACK GIRLS CODE

 Launched in 2011, Black Girls Code (BGC) is devoted to showing the world that girls of color can code - and do so much more. Through workshops, after-school programs, and immersive camps, BGC introduces computer programming and technology to girls from underrepresented communities in areas such as web design, robotics, gaming, mobile app development, and more. By cultivating the next generation of coders, we aim to grow the number of women of color in technology and give underrepresented girls the chance to become future leaders and masters of their technological worlds.


About the Program Our 2026 Summer Camps span 12 in-person locations across 10 cities, serving close to 700 participants ages 10-17. This year's theme is Game Design, powered by an exclusive partnership with Endless Games - the studio behind Threadbare. Campers will design original game assets, explore professional game development tools, and walk away with a clear picture of what a career in gaming, engineering, or production could look like for them.

This is a seasonal position. Camp sessions run on select weeks from June through August 2026, depending on location.


Key Responsibilities:  


Daily Camp Operations

  • Serve as a consistent, positive presence for campers throughout the full camp day
  • Support morning arrival, breakfast, lunch and snack delivery, set up and distribution
  • Lead and facilitate daily icebreaker activities to create a welcoming environment
  • Assist BGC-trained instructors during coding sessions, circulating to help campers work through challenges
  • Facilitate smooth transitions between daily activities, ensuring campers are engaged and on schedule
  • Administer end-of-day feedback surveys and support daily wrap-up and closing routines

Camper Experience & Wellbeing

  • Build genuine relationships with campers and create a culture of belonging, encouragement, and fun
  • Support movement and wellness sessions designed to promote mental health and physical wellbeing
  • Monitor camper engagement, flag concerns proactively, and escalate any safety or behavioral issues to program staff
  • Celebrate camper milestones and encourage every participant to take ownership of their learning

Capstone & Closing Showcase

  • Support campers in developing and preparing their capstone game design projects throughout the week
  • Help coordinate the closing celebration where participants present their projects to family, peers, and industry professionals
  • Assist with setup, logistics, and hosting duties for the final showcase event

Volunteer & Guest Speaker Support

  • Welcome and orient volunteers during morning, afternoon, and full-day shifts
  • Support coordination of guest speaker sessions featuring industry professionals in gaming, AI, coding, and tech careers
  • Ensure speakers and volunteers have what they need to deliver impactful sessions

Qualifications: 

  • Genuine passion for empowering Black girls and gender-nonconforming youth through technology and creative learning
  • Prior experience working with youth in camp, classroom, after-school, or community settings strongly preferred
  • Warm, energetic, and approachable - able to connect with young people across a range of ages (10-17)
  • Reliable, punctual, and committed to being fully present for the entire camp week at your assigned location
  • Strong communication and conflict de-escalation skills
  • Interest in STEM, gaming, or tech education a plus - but a love for learning alongside young people is what matters most
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

SAMPLE CAMP SCHEDULE
Time                                      Activity                                   Details

8:00 AM                                 Staff Arrival                        Setup for the day

9:00 - 9:30 AM                      Arrival & Breakfast            Light breakfast, social time, and settling in

 9:30 - 10:00 AM                    Icebreaker Activity            Team-building games to foster connections 

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM           Coding Session #1            Hands-on Game Design coding lesson

12:00 - 1:00 PM                    Lunch & Social Time         Lunch provided

1:00 - 3:00 PM                      Coding Session #2             Hands-on Game Design coding lesson

3:00 - 3:45 PM                     Guest Speaker / Mentor     Industry leader sessions (30 min max)                      

 3:45 - 4:00 PM                     Daily Survey & Wrap-Up      Feedback survey, day recap, prep for next

5:00 PM                                Staff Dismissal                       Breakdown and Prep 


Compensation:  Camp Counselors will be paid $25 dollars an hour for a week long camp plus a half day pre-camp training.    

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