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Gaming Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motocol

Gameplay Engineer

Glendale, CA

$25/hr

The Client is seeking a talented Gameplay Engineer (Designer Programmer) to join its team of passionate gamers. Ability to drive gameplay aspects of the game development process. Work effectively as ...

Tencent

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $347K/yr

Work with and lead a gameplay engineering team to craft development of innovative gameplay content systems and experiences * Work with design and production and engineering leadership to manage the ...

LightSpeed Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $347K/yr

Work with and lead a gameplay engineering team to craft development of innovative gameplay content systems and experiences * Work with design and production and engineering leadership to manage the ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Unity Engineer Role: We are looking for an experienced game engineer with strong C# and Unity skills. You will be working closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to build out our upcoming ...

Spellbrush

Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Unity Engineer Role: We are looking for an experienced game engineer with strong C# and Unity skills. You will be working closely with a small, multidisciplinary team to build out our upcoming ...

Search Solutions, LLC

iOS Game Developer

Los Angeles, CA

$55.75 - $76.75/hr

We're looking for iOS engineers to join our game studio! You will work on exciting new casual games with very high visibility and will help design game-play features and optimizations on multiple ...

YO AI Labs

Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$78K - $102K/yr

Cocos2d-x Junior Game Developer Job Type: Contractor Location: Remote Job Summary: In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models ...

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Gaming Developer information

See California salary details

$15

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How much do gaming developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for gaming developer in California is $17.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can a game developer do?

A game developer can work in roles such as gameplay programmer, graphics programmer, game designer, level designer, or technical artist. They often collaborate with artists, sound designers, and project managers, and may specialize in areas like mobile, console, or PC game development using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine.

What does a Gaming Developer do?

A Gaming Developer is responsible for designing, creating, and programming video games for computers, consoles, or mobile devices. They work on various aspects of game development including gameplay mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. Gaming Developers collaborate with artists, designers, and other programmers to bring a game from concept to completion. Their work involves problem-solving, creativity, and technical expertise to ensure an engaging and smooth gaming experience.

Will Game Dev be replaced by AI?

Game developers create and design video games, and while AI tools can assist with tasks like procedural content generation and testing, they are unlikely to fully replace human developers due to the need for creativity, problem-solving, and understanding player experience. AI can enhance productivity but requires skilled developers to guide and implement these technologies effectively.

Is 23 too late to start game dev?

Gaming developers can start at any age, and many successful professionals begin their careers later in life. Building skills in programming, design, and using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine can be done at any age, and experience can be an asset in the industry.

What is the difference between Gaming Developer vs Game Designer?

AspectGaming DeveloperGame Designer
Primary RoleProgram and build the game, focusing on coding, mechanics, and technical implementationDesign game concepts, storylines, gameplay mechanics, and user experience
Required SkillsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software development, problem-solvingCreativity, storytelling, game mechanics design, user experience
Work EnvironmentTypically in a development team, collaborating with artists and designersOften in a creative team, working closely with developers and artists
Industry UsageCommonly employed in game studios, tech companies, and indie projectsFound in game studios, design firms, and freelance roles

While Gaming Developers focus on coding and technical implementation, Game Designers concentrate on creating the game's concept, mechanics, and user experience. Both roles are essential and often collaborate closely in game development projects.

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

To thrive as a Gaming Developer, you need strong programming skills (such as C++, C#, or Java), a deep understanding of game design principles, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as knowledge of version control systems and graphics tools, is essential. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help developers innovate and collaborate on complex projects. These skills ensure the creation of engaging, high-quality games that perform well and provide excellent user experiences.

How much do gaming devs make?

Gaming developers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and company size, but the average annual salary in the industry ranges from $60,000 to $120,000. Entry-level developers typically earn less, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or working at major studios can earn higher salaries. Knowledge of programming languages like C++ and tools such as Unity or Unreal Engine can influence earning potential.

What are some common challenges Gaming Developers face when working on large-scale multiplayer games?

Gaming Developers working on large-scale multiplayer games often encounter challenges such as ensuring server stability, maintaining real-time synchronization across multiple players, and optimizing game performance to prevent lag. Collaboration with network engineers and QA testers is essential to identify and resolve issues quickly. Additionally, balancing gameplay and implementing effective anti-cheat measures are ongoing tasks that require coordination with designers and security specialists.
Gaming Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gaming Developer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,949 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Gameplay Engineer

Gameplay Engineer

Motocol

Glendale, CA

$25/hr

Contractor

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Motocol is recruiting for our client.


Job Description

An ideal candidate has Mobile Unity Game development, C# and a passion for games, mobile or any type. Samples or examples of work - can be from a prototype, in college, etc. Must be able to work collaboratively in a team environment and be willing to learn every day. Ideal candidate is also driven to make games. This position is part technical and part designing for the user.  The Client is seeking a talented Gameplay Engineer (Designer 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, designers and producers on mobile game projects. Design and build fun features in a high-quality way for our mobile games, participate in weekly sprints, keeping the team updated with your progress. Work with systems and tools used in professional software development, such as source control, issue tracking and others.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 2+ years' experience developing mobile Unity games. Production-level ability in one game programming language, such as C#. Working knowledge of development tools and environments such as Unity. Passion for developing player feedback / game feel. Game design skills - especially mechanics design, prototyping concepts and systems design. Game programming skills including 2D and 3D math, physics, FX and UI systems. Strong collaboration skills. A passion for games. Preferred Qualifications: Working prototypes of concepts that showcase rapid iteration process. Experience building and publishing Unity iOS and Android apps or games. Experience C++, Objective C or JAVA, or other coding

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Hourly Bill rate :$25.00

No backround check.

Duration 10 months.




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