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Gameplay Programmer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Code Plus Inc

3D Game Developer - XR/VR

Fort Lee, NJ · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

We are seeking a 3D Developer / Game Developer with Virtual Reality (VR) and Extended Reality (XR ... Develop scripts and application logic in Unity (C#) to support gameplay systems, simulation logic ...

Spin Master

Game Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

As the Game Developer for Hellbreak TCG, you will analyze card designs and manage our external ... thematic gameplay. * Act as the primary technical liaison for external co-development partners ...

3B Staffing LLC

Python Game Developer (Panda3D)

Manhattan, NY · Remote

$55.50 - $76.25/hr

Join our customer's team as an expert Pyhton Game Developer (Panda3D), where you'll contribute to cutting-edge AI training projects using one of the most robust and flexible open-source game engines.

3B Staffing LLC

Python Game Developer (Panda3D)

Manhattan, NY · Remote

$55.50 - $76.25/hr

Join our customer's team as an expert Pyhton Game Developer (Panda3D), where you'll contribute to cutting-edge AI training projects using one of the most robust and flexible open-source game engines.

Namely

Unity 3d Developer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in game development. Requirements: * 5+ ... Proficiency in C# programming and a solid understanding of object‑oriented design principles.

Dl

Engineering Frontend Engineer New York, NY

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$140 - $250/hr

A game programmer's approach to performance optimization * Experience using WebKit/Chrome profiler to debug memory leaks and reduce overhead * Strong written communication skills * NYC residence or ...

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Gameplay Programmer information

See New York salary details

$105.6K

$147.9K

$157K

How much do gameplay programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for gameplay programmer in New York is $147,949.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,100.00 and $156,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

More about Gameplay Programmer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Gameplay Programmer jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Gameplay Programmer jobs in New York are:

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For Gameplay Programmer jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Gameplay Programmer jobs in New York are:

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Cities in New York with the most Gameplay Programmer job openings:

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Gameplay Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gameplay Programmer job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 62% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,949 per year, or $71.1 per hour.

Junior Gameplay Programmer (Unreal Engine)

etc. interactive

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Other

Posted 18 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

We are seeking a driven and collaborative Junior Gameplay Programmer to help build the core mechanics of our upcoming extraction shooter. Working closely with our senior engineers, you will prototype, implement, and refine gameplay features ranging from character movement and weapon handling to inventory management and UI integration. This is an incredible opportunity to grow your skills in Unreal Engine while having a direct impact heading into alpha testing.

Responsibilities
  • Implement and iterate on core gameplay mechanics using Unreal Engine C++ and Blueprints
  • Assist in the development of weapon systems, player controllers, and interactive environment elements
  • Collaborate with designers to rapidly prototype new features and tune existing gameplay loops
  • Help integrate backend services and player engagement analytics into the game client
  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code, participating in regular code reviews
  • Identify and resolve bugs, optimizing game performance for a smooth multiplayer experience
Qualifications
  • 0–3 years of experience in game programming (can include academic projects, modding, or indie development)
  • Solid understanding of object-oriented programming principles
  • Hands-on experience with Unreal Engine (UE4 or UE5), including both C++ and Blueprints (Preferred)
  • A strong passion for the extraction shooter genre and competitive multiplayer games
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to learn new systems quicklyStrong communication skills and the ability to thrive in a highly collaborative, fast-paced startup studio
Location

This is a hybrid role based out of our New York City studio. Candidates must be located in, or willing to relocate to, the NYC metro area.

The expected base salary range for this position is $85,000 to $115,000 per year (+ Equity). The actual compensation offered will be determined in good faith based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skills.

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