ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Gameplay Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Maxar

Ontology Engineer (TS/SCI)

Herndon, VA · On-site

Collaborate with analysts, data scientists, engineers, and Government stakeholders to capture requirements and translate mission needs into formal knowledge models. * Develop and maintain ontology ...

UnannouncedGameStudio

Game Programmer

Fairfax, VA

An Unannounced Game Studio based in Fairfax, VA and led by industry veterans is searching for Jr-Mid Programmers to join a talented team in creating amazing games. Responsibilities Write portable ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

... Game Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

... Game Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

... Game Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... Game Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGameplay Engineer JobsGameplay Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Gameplay Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$91.4K

$164K

$231.3K

How much do gameplay engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for gameplay engineer in Washington, DC is $164,015.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,900.00 and $195,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a gameplay engineer make?

A gameplay engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or working at major studios can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and health insurance.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a gameplay engineer?

To thrive as a Gameplay Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages such as C++ or C#, a solid understanding of game development principles, and a degree in computer science or related fields. Experience with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine and familiarity with source control tools are typically required. Creative problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for building engaging gameplay features, ensuring technical quality, and working efficiently with designers and artists.

What does a gameplay engineer do?

A Gameplay Engineer designs, implements, and optimizes game mechanics, player interactions, and core gameplay systems. They collaborate with designers, artists, and other engineers to bring engaging experiences to life. Their role involves coding in game engines like Unity or Unreal, debugging issues, and ensuring smooth gameplay. They may also work on AI behavior, physics, and animations to enhance immersion. Strong problem-solving skills and proficiency in languages like C++ or C# are essential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Gameplay Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Gameplay Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Gameplay Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Gameplay Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Gameplay Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Gameplay Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Gameplay Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gameplay Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $164,015 per year, or $78.9 per hour.

Ontology Engineer (TS/SCI)

Maxar Technologies, Inc.

Herndon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Vantor is forging the new frontier of spatial intelligence, helping decision makers and operators navigate what's happening now and shape what's coming next. Vantor is a place for problem solvers, changemakers, and go-getters-where people are working together to help our customers see the world differently, and in doing so, be seen differently. Come be part of a mission, not just a job, where you can: Shape your own future, build the next big thing, and change the world.
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. Citizen. This position requires an active U.S. Government security clearance, applicants who do not currently hold the required clearance will not be eligible for consideration. Employment for cleared roles is contingent upon verification of clearance status.
Export Control/ITAR: Certain roles may be subject to U.S. export control laws, requiring U.S. person status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Please review the job details below.
This position requires an active U.S. Government Security Clearance at the TS/SCI level with CI polygraph.
Vantor is seeking an Ontology Lead to join our team. In this position you will design, develop, and maintain domain-specific ontologies and knowledge models in support of Object Based Intelligence (OBI) mission requirements.
The Lead Ontologist serves as the technical authority for the design, development, and maintenance of domain-specific ontologies and knowledge models that support Object-Based Intelligence (OBI) mission requirements. This position applies semantic technologies and knowledge representation methodologies to enable data interoperability, advanced analytics, and knowledge integration across diverse data sources and object-management systems. Leveraging Semantic Web standards, including RDF, OWL, and SPARQL, the Lead Ontologist develops scalable knowledge frameworks that enhance data discoverability, support AI/ML applications, and facilitate effective knowledge transfer to Government stakeholders.
Responsibilities:
  • In coordination with domain experts, design, develop, and maintain domain-specific ontologies, taxonomies, and knowledge graphs that support Object-Based Intelligence mission objectives.
  • Apply Semantic Web standards and technologies, including RDF, OWL, SHACL, and SPARQL, to model, represent, and query complex data relationships.
  • Establish and maintain semantic data integration frameworks that enable interoperability across internal and external object-management systems.
  • Collaborate with analysts, data scientists, engineers, and Government stakeholders to capture requirements and translate mission needs into formal knowledge models.
  • Develop and maintain ontology governance processes, standards, documentation, and version-control practices to ensure consistency and scalability.
  • Support AI/ML initiatives by providing structured knowledge representations that enhance model explainability, interpretability, and contextual reasoning.
  • Conduct ontology validation, testing, and quality assurance activities to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with mission requirements.
  • Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and knowledge transfer activities to Government personnel and project team members on ontology development methodologies and semantic technologies.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be a US citizen and have an active TS/SCI with CI poly.
  • 12 years of experience and an advanced degree or 17 years of experience with a bachelor's degree.
  • Demonstrated experience designing and implementing ontologies, taxonomies, or knowledge graphs in operational or research environments.
  • Experience applying Semantic Web technologies, including RDF, OWL, and SPARQL.
  • Knowledge of ontology engineering methodologies, data modeling principles, and semantic interoperability frameworks.
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience developing and maintaining enterprise knowledge graphs and integrating heterogeneous data sources.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML workflows and the use of ontologies to improve model explainability, reasoning, and decision support.
  • Experience providing technical leadership, mentoring, and formal knowledge transfer to Government personnel or large multidisciplinary teams.
  • Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) or equivalent data architecture certification.
  • Certified Knowledge Manager (CKM) or comparable knowledge management credential.
  • Formal training or certification in Semantic Web technologies, knowledge graphs, ontology engineering, RDF, OWL, or SPARQL.

#cjpost
#LI-CJ1
#LI-Onsite
Pay Transparency: To support pay transparency, Vantor includes salary ranges in all U.S. job postings. Starting pay for this role will fall within the listed range and will be based on factors such as experience, qualifications, skills, location, and market conditions. Candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the role should not expect to receive compensation at the top of the range. The listed range reflects the expected pay for this position, and final offers will be determined based on each candidate's experience, expertise, and alignment with the role.
• The base pay for this position within the Washington, DC metropolitan area is: $137,000.00 - $182,000.00 - $200,200.00 annually.
For all other states, we use geographic cost of labor as an input to develop market-driven ranges for our roles, and as such, each location where we hire may have a different range.
Benefits: Vantor offers a competitive total rewards package that goes beyond the standard, including a robust 401(k) with company match, mental health resources, and unique perks like student loan repayment assistance, adoption reimbursement and pet insurance to support all aspects of your life. You can find more information on our benefits at: https://www.Vantor.com/careers
The application window is three days from the date the job is posted and will remain posted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire. If the job is reposted regardless of reason, it will remain posted three days from the date the job is reposted and will remain reposted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire.
The date of posting can be found on Vantor's Career page at the top of each job posting.
To apply, submit your application via Vantor's Career page.
EEO Policy: Vantor is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. We believe in fostering an environment where all team members feel respected, valued, and encouraged to share their ideas. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Maxar Technologies logo

About Maxar Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Maxar Technologies, headquartered in Denver, CO, US, is a space technology company established in 1969. Operating in the Aerospace Industry, Maxar's key areas of business include Earth Intelligence and Space Infrastructure. The products they offer are critical for global communications, environmental monitoring, national security, intelligence operations, disaster response, and more. Passionate about unlocking the potential of space, Maxar's mission is "to build a better world by harnessing space technology". The company prides itself on advancing state-of-the-art technology, delivering exceptional customer service, and driving growth.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Denver, CO, US

Year founded

1969

View All Maxar Technologies Jobs

Apply