ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Game Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weekday AI

3D Game Developer - Panda3D

Enable users and researchers to innovate and experiment by developing customized tools and gameplay systems. Requirements Key Responsibilities * Create, develop, and enhance 3D game and simulation ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Part of working with our team may involve looking at our latest research results, and figuring out how to best apply it into the game. You will be at the literal cutting edge of what is possible with ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Part of working with our team may involve looking at our latest research results, and figuring out how to best apply it into the game. You will be at the literal cutting edge of what is possible with ...

Qualcomm

Director of Game Product Management

San Diego, CA · On-site

$196K - $294K/yr

Drive new development of gaming R&D around Game AI and game engines. * Develop detailed product plans, execution plans and drive delivery progress to market. * Timely communication with key OEMs and ...

Exploding Kittens

Contract Game Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Pitch original game ideas, researching and developing concepts on your own and with other designers * Provide feedback for and develop pitches from external inventors * Facilitate or participate in ...

MobilityWare

Game Designer

Lehi, UT

$145K/yr

Experience creating wireframes, mock-ups, technical flows, and research materials to support early ... Annual Game Jam to show off your creative chops!

Spellbrush

AI Anime Researcher - LLM

San Francisco, CA · On-site

tl;dr: We're building a 3D first-person adventure game where an AI companion is the core of the ... As an early member of this team, you will have significant artistic and research freedom to shape ...

Exploding Kittens

Contract Game Designer

Los Angeles, CA

$167K/yr

Pitch original game ideas, researching and developing concepts on your own and with other designers * Provide feedback for and develop pitches from external inventors * Facilitate or participate in ...

MobilityWare

Game Designer

Lehi, UT · On-site

$145K/yr

Experience creating wireframes, mock-ups, technical flows, and research materials to support early ... Annual Game Jam to show off your creative chops!

Spellbrush

AI Anime Researcher - LLM

San Francisco, CA · On-site

tl;dr: We're building a 3D first-person adventure game where an AI companion is the core of the ... As an early member of this team, you will have significant artistic and research freedom to shape ...

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

The ideal candidate is a motivated and experienced researcher familiar with testing Single Player games for player sentiment and usability. This role is based in our Sherman Oaks office and follows ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGame Researcher Jobs

Game Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do game researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for game researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can video games lower cortisol?

Game Researchers studying the effects of video games have found that playing certain types of games can reduce cortisol levels, which are associated with stress. Engaging in relaxing or enjoyable games may help lower stress hormones, but individual responses vary. Monitoring stress levels and choosing appropriate game types are important for potential benefits.

What does a game researcher do?

A game researcher studies player behavior, preferences, and engagement to inform game design and development. They analyze data, conduct user testing, and use tools like surveys and analytics software to improve game quality and player experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Researcher, you need a solid background in game design theory, analytics, and user research methods, often supported by a degree in psychology, human-computer interaction, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools (such as SPSS, R, or Tableau), playtesting platforms, and usability testing software is typically required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and curiosity help Game Researchers translate player feedback into actionable insights for development teams. These skills are crucial for creating engaging, user-centered games that meet player expectations and drive industry innovation.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Game Researchers, like many entry-level roles, face challenges such as high competition, limited entry-level positions, and the need for specialized skills like data analysis and familiarity with gaming platforms. Additionally, employers often seek candidates with relevant experience, certifications, or a strong understanding of industry trends, which can be difficult for new entrants to demonstrate.

What is the difference between Game Researcher vs Game Designer?

AspectGame ResearcherGame Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in game design, psychology, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in game design, computer science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, game studios, user testing environmentsCreative teams, development studios, design departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed to inform game development through user research and testingCreates game concepts, mechanics, and overall design
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in game developmentUnderstanding design roles in game development

Game Researchers focus on studying player behavior, preferences, and testing to inform game development. Game Designers create the gameplay, mechanics, and overall experience. Both roles are essential in the game industry but serve different functions within the development process.

What are some common challenges faced by Game Researchers when collaborating with development teams?

Game Researchers often encounter challenges in effectively communicating complex player data and research findings to development teams with diverse backgrounds. Balancing the needs and timelines of designers, artists, and programmers can be demanding, as research insights may call for changes late in the development process. Additionally, researchers must ensure their studies are relevant and actionable, translating player feedback and analytics into clear recommendations that align with project goals. Building strong relationships and maintaining open communication channels are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the highest paying job in the gaming industry?

In the gaming industry, executive roles such as Chief Creative Officer or Vice President of Game Development tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries or more. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and a strong understanding of game design, production, and business management.

What are Game Researchers?

Game Researchers are professionals who study various aspects of video games, including player behavior, game design, storytelling, and technology. They may work in academia, for gaming companies, or as independent consultants, using research methods such as data analysis, user testing, and surveys. Their findings help improve gameplay experiences, inform game development, and contribute to our understanding of games as a cultural phenomenon.
More about Game Researcher jobs
What states have the most Game Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Game Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Game Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Game Researcher jobs are:
Game Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 66% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

3D Game Developer - Panda3D

Weekday AI

Remote

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

This role is for one of our clients
$50 - $150/hourpay
Job Type: Contractor
Location: Remote
Become a key member of our customer's team as a 3D Game Developer (Panda3D), contributing significantly to the development of advanced interactive 3D applications and games. Utilize your skills in Panda3D, Python, or C++ to design and build durable, adaptable, and scriptable systems for simulations, research projects, or independent productions. Enable users and researchers to innovate and experiment by developing customized tools and gameplay systems.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
  1. Create, develop, and enhance 3D game and simulation features utilizing Panda3D.
  2. Build custom tools and gameplay systems that provide extensive flexibility and scripting capabilities.
  3. Work closely with developers, artists, and researchers to convert requirements into efficient and maintainable code.
  4. Optimize application performance across a variety of hardware platforms and deployment scenarios.
  5. Participate in every stage of the development lifecycle, from initial prototyping through to release and ongoing support.
  6. Clearly communicate complex technical ideas, both verbally and in writing.
  7. Keep up-to-date with the latest Panda3D developments and community best practices.

Required Skills and Qualifications
  1. Extensive practical experience with Panda3D for creating interactive 3D applications or games.
  2. Proficient in Python or C++ for scripting, implementing gameplay logic, and tool creation.
  3. Strong knowledge of 3D graphics principles, game loops, and simulation system design.
  4. Proven capability to develop flexible systems and tools adaptable to diverse use cases.
  5. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills emphasizing clarity and teamwork.
  6. Ability to work independently and productively within a remote, distributed team environment.
  7. Demonstrated history of delivering high-quality code and innovative 3D solutions.

Preferred Qualifications
  1. Previous experience in developing 3D applications for research, simulation, or independent game development.
  2. Familiarity with agile workflows and version control tools, such as Git.
  3. Active participation in the Panda3D or other open-source development communities.

Apply