ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Gameplay Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Epic Games

Gameplay Programmer

Cary, NC · On-site

$119K - $132K/yr

ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and ...

Intrepid Studios

Gameplay Programmer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$136K - $151K/yr

Work with game designers, artists, and other engineers to create compelling experiences * Break-down design goals into smaller technical tasks * Provide feedback on gameplay and offer suggestions for ...

ZeniMax Media

Multiplayer Gameplay Programmer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$131K - $145K/yr

ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Game Studios, is seeking a Multiplayer Gameplay Programmer to join their award-winning development team. The role involves collaborating on the ...

Intrepid Studios

Gameplay Programmer

San Diego, CA

$136K - $151K/yr

Work with game designers, artists, and other engineers to create compelling experiences * Break-down design goals into smaller technical tasks * Provide feedback on gameplay and offer suggestions for ...

ZeniMax Media

Multiplayer Gameplay Programmer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$127K - $141K/yr

ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Game Studios, is seeking a Multiplayer Gameplay Programmer to join their award-winning development team. The role involves collaborating on the ...

ZeniMax Media

Multiplayer Gameplay Programmer

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $141K/yr

ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Game Studios, is seeking a Multiplayer Gameplay Programmer to join their award-winning development team. The role involves collaborating on the ...

Templar Media

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$125K - $139K/yr

As an independent developer and publisher, Templar develops the games that we want, on our own schedule. We are actively staffing up for both in-house game development and supporting published titles.

Epic Games

Lead Gameplay Programmer

Cary, NC · On-site

ENGINEERING - GAMES What We Do Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and ...

AGBO

Senior Gameplay Programmer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

As Senior Gameplay Programmer, you are a versatile engineer who thrives in a collaborative environment and deeply enjoys empowering designers. You'll work closely with designers and the broader ...

AGBO Films LLC

Senior Gameplay Programmer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

As Senior Gameplay Programmer, you are a versatile engineer who thrives in a collaborative environment and deeply enjoys empowering designers. You'll work closely with designers and the broader ...

High Voltage Software

Unreal Programmer

$70K - $100K/yr

Implement core game functionality such as application specific AI, physics, character control ... Degree in Computer Science/Engineering or equivalent work experience * 2-5+ years of experience ...

Motocol

Gameplay Engineer

Glendale, CA

$25/hr

... Programmer) to join its team of passionate gamers. Ability to drive gameplay aspects of the game development process. Work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, artists ...

Epic Games

Gameplay Engineering Lead

Cary, NC · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

As a Lead Gameplay Programmer, you will be in a leadership role on a small and focused team, playing a critical role in driving current and future projects. You will be responsible for driving core ...

AGBO

Principal Gameplay Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

They are seeking a Principal Gameplay Engineer to work within their Interactive team, focusing on core gameplay systems and collaborating with design and creative leadership to tackle ambitious ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGameplay Programmer Jobs

Gameplay Programmer information

See salary details

$96.5K

$135.2K

$143.5K

How much do gameplay programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for gameplay programmer in the United States is $135,232.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Gameplay Programmer vs Game Developer?

AspectGameplay ProgrammerGame Developer
Primary FocusImplementing gameplay features, mechanics, and systemsDesigning, developing, and managing entire game projects
Skills & CredentialsProgramming skills, understanding of game engines, scriptingProgramming, design, project management, often with broader skill set
Work EnvironmentTypically within a development team, focused on coding and implementationVaries from coding to design, often in larger teams or studios

While both roles involve programming, Gameplay Programmers specialize in creating and implementing gameplay mechanics, whereas Game Developers oversee broader aspects of game creation, including design and project management. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the gaming industry.

What Is a Gameplay Programmer?

A gameplay programmer helps develop, document, test, and debug online or mobile game systems. Responsibilities include writing code with scripting languages such as C++, JavaScript, HTML, and Python; looking for ways to modify code; implementing functionalities such as controls, AI, and NPC behaviors within an established framework; and fixing design issues. They must communicate and work closely with other programmers to provide technical and creative feedback and meet project goals. Qualifications to become a gameplay programmer include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a similar field and fluency in programming languages.

What does a Gameplay Programmer do?

A Gameplay Programmer is responsible for implementing the interactive elements of a video game, such as character controls, game rules, and mechanics. They work closely with designers and artists to turn creative concepts into playable features, ensuring that gameplay is both fun and functional. Their tasks often include writing code for player actions, AI behavior, and in-game systems, as well as debugging and optimizing game performance. Gameplay Programmers play a crucial role in shaping the overall experience and feel of a game.

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

To thrive as a Gameplay Programmer, you need a strong background in computer science, proficiency in programming languages like C++ or C#, and experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine. Familiarity with version control systems, debugging tools, and, in some cases, relevant certifications in game development is also valuable. Creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving are crucial soft skills for collaborating with designers and artists to bring game mechanics to life. These skills ensure the creation of engaging, efficient, and high-quality gameplay experiences that meet both technical and creative goals.

How does a gameplay programmer typically collaborate with designers and artists during game development?

Gameplay programmers work closely with designers to translate creative concepts into interactive mechanics, implementing features such as controls, rules, and character abilities. They also collaborate with artists to ensure animations, visual effects, and assets integrate smoothly with the codebase. Regular communication, prototyping, and iterative testing are crucial, as gameplay programmers often participate in multidisciplinary meetings and provide technical feedback to refine the player experience. This dynamic teamwork helps ensure that gameplay elements are both fun and technically feasible.
More about Gameplay Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Gameplay Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Gameplay Programmer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Gameplay Programmer jobs? The most popular types of Gameplay Programmer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Gameplay Programmer jobs? The top employers for Gameplay Programmer jobs are:
What states have the most Gameplay Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Gameplay Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Gameplay Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Gameplay Programmer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Gameplay Programmer jobs? For Gameplay Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Gameplay Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gameplay Programmer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,232 per year, or $65 per hour.
Gameplay Programmer

Gameplay Programmer

Epic Games

Cary, NC • On-site

$119K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?
At the core of Epic's success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we're always innovating.
Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.
ENGINEERING - GAMES
What We Do
Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of engineering experts. We're always improving on the tools and technology that empower content developers worldwide.
What You'll Do
We are looking for a Gameplay Engineer to join us in the next wave of musical gameplay! We believe that the best gameplay experiences are driven by collaboration and iteration between gameplay programmers, designers, and artists. You will play a critical role in driving future gameplay features and leading other engineers in the process.
In this role, you will
  • Work closely with art and design on a variety of gameplay features
  • Prototype and iterate, and be willing to accept and respond to critical feedback
  • Collaborate with other engineers on technical approaches to satisfy both the surface-level and deeper, engineering-specific requirements
  • Optimize and fix bugs in existing gameplay systems to ensure high-quality user experiences across all platforms we support
  • Write robust, maintainable code
What we're looking for
  • Experience developing games professionally and shipping AAA titles
  • An analytical mind with strong problem-solving skills
  • Strong C++ skills and the ability to code and architect gameplay mechanics and tools
  • Well-versed in games and the ability to articulate what is strong/weak about the design of existing games
  • Experience with or desire to work in a live game environment
  • Self-motivated, strong work ethic, and able to work independently
  • Creativity in problem-solving and the ability to think outside of the established solutions
  • Experience writing multiplayer gameplay systems is a plus
  • Keen interest in games
EPIC JOB + EPIC BENEFITS = EPIC LIFE
Our intent is to cover all things that are medically necessary and improve the quality of life. We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental, a Vision HRA, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance & a 401k with competitive match. We also offer a robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, which provides free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents. Throughout the year we celebrate our employees with events and company-wide paid breaks. We offer unlimited PTO and sick time and recognize individuals for 7 years of employment with a paid sabbatical.
ABOUT US
Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.
Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!
Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.
Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.

Apply