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Game Programming Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Principal Game Designer

Austin, TX · On-site

$153.60K/yr

Zynga is a mobile game developer that creates and operates social games as live services played on the Internet. Founded in 2007, the company is headquartered in San Mateo, USA, with a team of 1001 ...

Principal Game Designer

Austin, TX · On-site

$153.60K/yr

Zynga is a mobile game developer that creates and operates social games as live services played on the Internet. Founded in 2007, the company is headquartered in San Mateo, USA, with a team of 1001 ...

Sr DevOps Engineer - Wizard of Oz Slots

Austin, TX · On-site

$128.90K - $165.50K/yr

Zynga is a global leader in interactive entertainment, known for its diverse game portfolio. The Sr DevOps Engineer will design, architect, and support back-end services, develop new technologies ...

Director of Product - Game of Thrones Slots

Austin, TX · On-site

$231K - $241.90K/yr

Zynga is a mobile game developer that creates and operates social games as live services played on the Internet. Founded in 2007, the company is headquartered in San Mateo, USA, with a team of 1001 ...

Slot Game Designer - Remote

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$151.10K/yr

Position: Slot Game Designer Location: Las Vegas, NV, or Chicago, IL ( or fully-remote ) Your ... Background in mathematics and/or programming to add complexity to your designs. * Time Traveler:

Empty Vessel is an emerging game development studio focusing on immersive gaming experiences. With ... We are seeking 1-2 mid-level Animation Engineers with exceptional Unreal Engine 5 expertise to join ...

Principal Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$217K - $246K/yr

Skydance Games , a division of Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, is building the future of ... The Principal Engineer plays a critical role in driving innovation and ensuring that the ...

Proficiency in programming languages such as C#, Java, Python are a must and JavaScript is ... Master's degree in computer science, Game Development, or a related field. * Experience with ...

Principal Engineer

Austin, TX · Remote

$217K - $246K/yr

Skydance Games , a division of Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, is building the future of ... The Principal Engineer plays a critical role in driving innovation and ensuring that the ...

Principal Engineer

Austin, TX · Hybrid

$217K - $246K/yr

Skydance Games , a division of Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, is building the future of ... The Principal Engineer plays a critical role in driving innovation and ensuring that the ...

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Game Programming information

See Austin, TX salary details

$10.9K

$91.8K

$172K

How much do game programming jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for game programming in Austin, TX is $91,822.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,800.00 and $144,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Game Programming jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Game Programming job openings:
Principal Game Designer

Principal Game Designer

Zynga

Austin, TX • On-site

$153.60K/yr

Full-time

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


Job description

Job Summary:
Zynga is a global leader in interactive entertainment, known for its diverse game portfolio connecting players worldwide. The Principal Game Designer will lead and participate in the design and creative input for new mobile games, focusing on content and system design.
Responsibilities:
• Create or adapt game features and large scale systems to work with the game
• Write user experience stories and design documentation for new features and systems
• Own, drive, and collaborate with other disciplines for system development
• Work closely with other disciplines to design and prototype new gameplay and systems
• Create flexible sheets and models to balance sophisticated systems
• Design and balance content for new systems
• Create and improve tools to make the design pipeline faster and more efficient for the team
• Be the advocate of good design practices across the studio
• Pitch new ideas to the team/ lead brainstorming sessions
• Analyze real-time feedback and metrics, and adjust game designs accordingly while maintaining live game balance
• Remain up-to-date with Game Design literature and standard methodologies to be an evangelist for the craft of Game Design
Qualifications:
Required:
• At least 6 years' relevant experience
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Expert with math, levels, and formulas in game environment
• Possesses an extensive knowledge of games and strategies
• Solid knowledge of game balancing and pacing
• Translates direct consumer insights, market data, and analysis into creative design solutions
• Passionate gamer
• 2+ shipped games
Company:
Zynga is a mobile game developer that creates and operates social games as live services played on the Internet. Founded in 2007, the company is headquartered in San Mateo, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.