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Independent Contractor Game Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Akima, LLC

Game Developer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Pinnacle Solutions is looking for a passionate and motivated Game Developer to join our virtual ... contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our ...

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How much do independent contractor game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor game developer in the United States is $108,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor game developers, and how can they be managed?

Independent contractor game developers often face challenges such as managing multiple clients, adapting to different project requirements, and ensuring clear communication in remote settings. Balancing workloads and meeting varied deadlines requires strong organizational skills and proactive time management. Staying updated on the latest industry tools and technologies is also important, as clients may have different technical preferences. Building a routine for regular client check-ins and using project management tools can help streamline communication and project delivery. Overall, adaptability and self-discipline are key to overcoming these challenges and succeeding in this flexible, dynamic career path.

What does an Independent Contractor Game Developer do?

An Independent Contractor Game Developer is a self-employed professional who designs, develops, and programs video games on a contract basis. They typically work with clients or studios on specific projects, handling tasks such as coding, game design, asset integration, and optimization. Unlike full-time employees, they are responsible for managing their own schedules, contracts, and taxes. This role offers flexibility and the opportunity to work on a variety of projects but requires strong self-discipline and business management skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Independent Contractor Game Developer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Game Developer, you must have strong programming abilities (such as C++, C#, or Unity), a portfolio demonstrating completed projects, and up-to-date knowledge of game development workflows. Proficiency in game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, experience with version control systems like Git, and familiarity with digital art tools or middleware are highly valuable. Excellent time management, communication, and self-motivation are crucial soft skills for coordinating remotely with clients or teams and managing multiple projects. These competencies allow you to deliver quality work efficiently, handle various responsibilities independently, and build lasting professional relationships as a contractor.

More about Independent Contractor Game Developer jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Game Developer jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Game Developer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs? The most popular types of Game Developer jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Game Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Game Developer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Game Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Game Developer jobs are:
Independent Contractor Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Game Developer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,471 per year, or $52.1 per hour.
Game Developer

Game Developer

Akima, LLC

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Akima rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

258th of 369 rated engineering

Job description

Pinnacle Solutions is looking for a passionate and motivated Game Developer to join our virtual development team. The ideal candidate has a foundational understanding of programming and game design principles, and a strong desire to learn and grow in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter, have a can-do attitude, and be willing to take ownership and help grow the capabilities of our growing engineering team. This position will provide an opportunity to apply academic and professional experience to the creation of serious games. Daily work will require experience in the Unity or Unreal game engines and the ability to learn custom frameworks and toolsets.
Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with designers, artists, and senior developers to implement gameplay features.
  • Follow development standards using proprietary development tools.
  • Debug and resolve bugs, performance issues, and gameplay inconsistencies.
  • Participate in regular development reviews and team meetings. Stay updated with industry trends and emerging technologies.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Game Development, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Knowledge of 2D/3D game mechanics.
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages (C#, C++, etc.).
  • Familiarity with at least one game engine (Unity or Unreal Engine).
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical skills and attention to detail are a must.
  • Ability to work in a team and take constructive feedback.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Must be a US Citizen with ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance.

Desired Qualification:
  • Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git).
  • Familiarity with Unreal Blueprint.
  • Basic knowledge of game physics, or AI systems.
  • Familiarity with agile development workflows.
  • Experience in AR/VR development.
  • Experience in the Lua programming language.
  • One or more shipped titles.

Job ID
2025-20304
Work Type
Hybrid
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Pinnacle Solutions, an Akima company, is not just another federal contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At Pinnacle Solutions, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, Pinnacle Solutions provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, Pinnacle Solutions delivers comprehensive services for general construction and renovation, as well as civil and marine construction.
As a Pinnacle Solutions employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

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About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

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