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Gameplay Programmer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

Campers will design original game assets, explore professional game development tools, and walk away with a clear picture of what a career in gaming, engineering, or production could look like for ...

Campers will design original game assets, explore professional game development tools, and walk away with a clear picture of what a career in gaming, engineering, or production could look like for ...

Game Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

R0239284 Game Designer The Opportunity: As a game designer, you're excited at the prospect of ... Experience with scripting or automation using the C++ programming language * Experience developing ...

Game Designer The Opportunity: As a game designer, you're excited at the prospect of unlocking the ... Experience with scripting or automation using the C++ programming language * Experience developing ...

Game Designer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$77K - $176K/yr

Share Game Designer The Opportunity: As a game designer, you're excited at the prospect of ... Experience with scripting or automation using the C++ programming language * Experience developing ...

Video Game Design Tutor

Bowie, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

Video Game Design Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions.

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Gameplay Programmer information

See Washington salary details

$109.3K

$153.2K

$162.5K

How much do gameplay programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for gameplay programmer in Washington is $153,163.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,100.00 and $162,000.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Gameplay Programmer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Gameplay Programmer jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Gameplay Programmer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Gameplay Programmer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Gameplay Programmer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Gameplay Programmer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Gameplay Programmer jobs in WA? For Gameplay Programmer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

Cymertek

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Software Engineer
LOCATION
Annapolis Junction, MD 20701
CLEARANCE
TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship)
KEY SUMMARY
We are seeking a talented and motivated Software Engineer to join our team and contribute to the development of cutting-edge software solutions. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, coding, testing, and deploying applications that meet high standards of performance, security, and scalability. The ideal candidate is a problem-solver with a passion for technology, adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions. You should be comfortable working in dynamic environments, learning new tools and technologies, and ensuring that all software aligns with best practices and project requirements. If you thrive on creating impactful software that drives success, we'd love to hear from you!
*** Please note that our job openings are dynamic and can open or close quickly (much faster than we can publish). If you do not see an opening you are looking for, know that we see almost all types of positons. We strive to keep our listings up to date, but please consider submitting your current resume. Our team will work with you to identify the most recent opportunities that align with your skillset and career goals. We look forward to you joining our family. ***
SIMILAR CAREER TITLES
Software Developer, Application Developer, Full Stack Developer, Backend Developer, Frontend Developer, Systems Developer, Web Developer, Mobile Application Developer, Embedded Software Engineer, Cloud Software Engineer, DevOps Engineer, QA Engineer, Test Automation Engineer, 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, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Game Development, Information Systems, Applied Computing, Computational Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Network Engineering, etc.
ALTERNATE EXPERIENCE
General comment on degrees: Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some contracts give 4-5 years experience credit for a Bachelor's Degree. Some contracts give 2 years experience credit for a Master's Degree. We will work with you to find the right fit.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Proficiency in programming languages
  • Experience with software testing and debugging
  • Familiarity with software development lifecycles
  • Ability to work in a collaborative team environment
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to document technical designs and processes

REQUIRED SKILLS
  • Proficiency in Python, Java, or C++
  • Knowledge of version control systems (e.g., Git)
  • Experience with APIs and RESTful services
  • Competency in writing clean, maintainable code
  • Understanding of algorithms and data structures
  • Familiarity with Agile methodologies

DESIRED SKILLS
  • Knowledge of cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure)
  • Familiarity with DevOps practices
  • Experience with containerization (e.g., Docker)
  • Understanding of CI/CD pipelines
  • Exposure to front-end frameworks (e.g., React, Angular)
  • Experience with microservices architecture

PLUG IN to CYMERTEK - And design your future...
YOUR FOREVER CAREER STARTS HERE
Are you looking for more than just a job? Join a company where employees are treated like family, and your career is built to last. We are a growing small business and a trusted federal contractor offering full scope consulting services in information technology, cybersecurity, and analyst workforce development.
At our company, you come first. We're committed to creating an environment where you'll thrive professionally and personally. We provide meaningful, challenging work using cutting-edge technologies while investing in your growth and success. With direct access to company leadership, a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere, and exceptional work-life balance, you'll feel valued every day.
We also believe in taking care of our family - both yours and ours. Our benefits are phenomenal, family-friendly, and designed with your well-being in mind. From employee and family events to career-long support, we create a community you'll never want to leave.
Ready to make your next move the best one? Join us and experience the difference.
BENEFITS
  • Excellent Salaries
  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Cafeteria Style Benefits
  • 10% - 401k Matching (Vested Immediately)
  • Additional 401k Profit Sharing
  • 30 days Paid Leave/Holiday (No Use or Lose!)
  • The day off for your birthday
  • Medical/Dental/Vision - 100% employee coverage. ($1200 allowance - or a bonus)
  • HSA/FSA
  • AFLAC
  • Long Term/Short Term Disability - 100% employee coverage. No cost to you.
  • Life Insurance - 100% employee coverage. No cost to you.
  • Additional Discretionary Life Insurance
  • Paid Training
  • No long, wordy reviews with tons of paperwork!!!
  • Referral bonus program with recurring annual payments

HOW TO APPLY
Email us atjobs@cymertek.comor apply today:www.cymertek.com
Want to see what our employees think? Clickhere .
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT
Cymertek is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We embrace and celebrate differences in our employees, recognizing that a diverse workforce enhances our creativity, innovation, and overall success. At Cymertek, employment decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We believe in creating an environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and where opportunities for professional growth and advancement are accessible to everyone, regardless of background or identity.