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Game System Designer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... games. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver accessible and ... Experience with eLearning courseware and learning management systems. * Proficiency in digital ...

UI/UX Designer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

... games. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver accessible and ... Experience with eLearning courseware and learning management systems. * Proficiency in digital ...

NetOps System Administrator

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

... and gaming (LVCG) domains. CESI also designs, builds and runs infrastructure, platforms ... Specifically, the NetOps System Administrator monitors network performance, executes incident ...

Senior System Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$168K - $240K/yr

Incorporates new plans, designs and systems into ongoing operations. Develops technical ... Amazon Prime, gym reimbursement, monthly lunches, games and prizes * Pet adoption program, generous ...

DevOps Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$55 - $75.25/hr

Game Plan Tech is a mission-driven consulting and services firm that helps government teams access ... Required : • 3+ years of experience in designing, implementing, and managing cloud infrastructure ...

Senior System Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Amazon Prime, gym reimbursement, monthly lunches, games and prizes * Pet adoption program, generous ... We hire software engineers, web designers, test engineers, systems engineers, systems ...

Senior System Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$168K - $240K/yr

Amazon Prime, gym reimbursement, monthly lunches, games and prizes * Pet adoption program, generous ... We hire software engineers, web designers, test engineers, systems engineers, systems ...

Showing results 21-40

Game System Designer information

See Washington salary details

$53.2K

$176.7K

How much do game system designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for game system designer in Washington is $168,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $175,600.00 and $175,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game system designer?

Game System Designers are professionals who create, balance, and refine the underlying rules and mechanics that govern how a video game operates. They focus on designing systems such as combat, progression, economy, and rewards to ensure an engaging and balanced player experience. By collaborating with other developers, they translate creative ideas into mathematical models and gameplay loops that keep players challenged and entertained. Their work is crucial to the overall feel and longevity of a game.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a game system designer?

To thrive as a Game System Designer, you need strong analytical thinking, creativity, and a solid understanding of game mechanics, often supported by a background in game design, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with game engines (such as Unity or Unreal), prototyping tools, and scripting languages like C# or Lua is highly beneficial. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and iterate on complex systems. These skills ensure engaging, balanced, and technically feasible gameplay experiences that drive a game's success.

How does a game system designer typically collaborate with other departments during the game development process?

Game System Designers work closely with various teams such as artists, programmers, producers, and narrative designers to ensure that gameplay mechanics align with the overall vision of the game. They often participate in cross-functional meetings, provide detailed system documentation, and gather feedback from playtest sessions to refine systems. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as system designers must balance creative ideas with technical constraints and player experience. This role is highly collaborative, requiring frequent coordination to integrate new features, resolve design challenges, and maintain a cohesive game experience.

What is the difference between Game System Designer vs Game Level Designer?

AspectGame System DesignerGame Level Designer
Primary FocusDesigns core game mechanics, systems, and rulesCreates and designs individual game levels and environments
Required SkillsSystems thinking, programming knowledge, gameplay designLevel layout, environment art, storytelling through level design
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with programmers, designers, and artists on overall game systemsWorks closely with artists and narrative teams to craft engaging levels
Industry UsageCommon in game development studios focusing on gameplay mechanicsCommon in studios emphasizing level and environment design

While both roles are essential in game development, the Game System Designer focuses on creating the underlying mechanics that define gameplay, whereas the Game Level Designer concentrates on crafting the individual levels players explore. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and collaboration points within game development teams.

How do you become a game system designer?

To become a game system designer, typically a candidate needs a background in game design, computer science, or related fields, along with strong skills in programming, mathematics, and understanding of game mechanics. Gaining experience through internships, personal projects, or portfolio work is important, and proficiency with design tools like Unity or Unreal Engine can be beneficial.

Is game system designer a good career?

A game system designer develops the rules, mechanics, and systems for video games, often requiring skills in programming, mathematics, and game theory. The field offers opportunities in the gaming industry, but job availability can be competitive and typically requires a strong portfolio and relevant experience.

What are popular job titles related to Game System Designer jobs in Washington?

For Game System Designer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Game System Designer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Game System Designer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Game System Designer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Game System Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Game System Designer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,890 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

NetOps System Administrator

Annapolis Junction, MD

By Light Professional IT Services LLC
IT Services • 1 - 5K employees

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

By Light Professional IT Services LLC readies warfighters and federal agencies with technology and systems engineered to connect, protect, and prepare individuals and teams for whatever comes next. Headquartered in McLean, VA, By Light supports defense, civilian, and commercial IT customers worldwide. 

Cole Engineering Services (CESI), a By Light company, is recognized as a premier provider of modeling and simulation (M&S) training solutions to the Federal Government and industry. Since 2004, CESI has been at the forefront of developing, maintaining, and integrating simulation-based training, serious gaming, technical services, training and other support in live, virtual, constructive, and gaming (LVCG) domains.  CESI also designs, builds and runs infrastructure, platforms, applications and processes that enable cyber training for the integrated multi-domain force. Our vision is to become a worldwide full spectrum LVCG and cyber training/analysis developer, integrator and services provider.


The Network Operations (NetOps) System Administrator is a critical member of the team responsible for providing top-tier IT support in a multifaceted and dynamic environment. This position conducts the daily operations, performance, and availability of network infrastructure and services. The role serves as a primary point of coordination for network operations activities, ensuring the high availability, security, and performance of mission-critical systems across multiple environments. Specifically, the NetOps System Administrator monitors network performance, executes incident response and reporting, collects and analyzes platform metrics, and contributes to the development of operational policies and procedures.

This is a full time position on-site in Annapolis Junction, MD. PCTE support operates 24x7x365, this shift is Saturday and Sunday, 2000-0800; and two weekdays 0800-1600.


  • Ensure efficient and secure operations across all supported systems and networks.
  • Perform day-to-day network performance monitoring.
  • Collect & analyze metrics and trending data, develop data standards, policies, and procedures.
  • Analyzes data sources, assesses validity, and provides actionable recommendations.
  • Conduct incident response activities, ensuring timely triage, escalation, resolution, and documentation of network-related issues.
  • Prepare and present operational briefings, status reports, and performance metrics to leadership, ensuring informed decision-making.
  • Develop and manage detailed documentation to support standardized operational processes and procedures.
  • Maintain awareness of system capacity, utilization trends, and potential performance bottlenecks.

  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline such as IT, computer science, systems or software engineering from an accredited college or university. (5 years’ experience in lieu of degree).
  • DoD 8140/8570 IAT Level II or greater certification such as Security+, CCNA, CISSP or other equivalent certification within six months of hire.
  • 4+ years of directly related experience supporting help desk operations.
  • Two to five years of analytics tools such as Metabase and Grafana.
  • Experience with VMware, Net App, and RedHat Linux (RHEL).
  • Self-starter in a fast-paced environment, collaborating with engineers of varying skills and experience levels.
  • Effective written and oral communication with leadership on both business and technical aspects.
  • Experience supporting virtualized and cloud-hosted environments.
  • Experience using ticketing and incident management platforms such as ServiceNow or Jira.

  • Knowledge of, or prior experience with PCTE.
  • Problem-solving skills for resolving technical issues across diverse integrated software and hardware platforms.
  • Experience with database and model design and segmentation techniques.
  • Proficiency in generating queries and reports, utilizing data analysis tools such as Excel, Meta Base, and SPSS.
  • Strong ability to prioritize multiple tasks, projects, and demands.
  • Effective communication with vendors, users, customers, and developers to comprehend needs and operational requirements changes impacting the production environment.
  • Proven success in a collaborative, team-oriented environment

Please note that pursuant to a government contract, this specific position requires U. S. Citizenship status and a TS/SCI security clearance. Security Clearance requirements will be specified in the Government's Task Order.

Occasional travel may be required (as part of a mobile training team) up to 25% of the time.


Based on the roles, responsibilities, and requirements, the projected pay range for this position is:  $110,000 - $130,000.

The annual base salary provided is a guideline for this position and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. When extending an offer, CESI also considers other variables such as (but not limited to) work experience, education, training, skill set, internal peer equity, clearance level, and market conditions. In addition, CESI provides an extensive selection of benefits and offerings to our employees.


CESI recognizes that our strength is our people. We support every employee as an individual to build strong teams across the enterprise.  Our benefit package includes:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage
  • Wellness Program
  • 401(k) Matching
  • Disability (Short Term & Long Term)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Education & Training
  • Generous Leave Policy (11 Federal Holidays, PTO, Military Leave, Bereavement and Jury Duty)

CESI is committed to principles of inclusion and equal employment opportunity.  We foster a non-discriminatory, professional work environment for all our teams.  We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status.