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Independent Game Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AGBO

Senior Technical Designer, Events

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$99K - $106K/yr

AGBO is an artist-led independent studio founded by Anthony and Joe Russo, known for shaping the ... Required : • 5-8 years of professional game design experience with multiple shipped titles. • ...

AGBO

NPC Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Founded in 2017 by Anthony and Joe Russo, AGBO is an artist-led independent studio shaping the ... In 2023, AGBO welcomed Donald Mustardformer Chief Creative Officer at Epic Games and co-creator of ...

AGBO

NPC Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Founded in 2017 by Anthony and Joe Russo, AGBO is an artist-led independent studio shaping the ... In 2023, AGBO welcomed Donald Mustard-former Chief Creative Officer at Epic Games and co-creator of ...

AGBO

Combat Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... independent studio founded by Anthony and Joe Russo, known for shaping the future of film and television. They are seeking a Combat Designer to design and implement engaging gameplay mechanics ...

Ten4

UI Designer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

Self-directed independent worker that's able to collaborate cross-functionally Plusses: * A gamer at heart! * Experience designing for both web and for game assets * Experience with the Unreal 4 ...

Ten4

UI Designer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

Self-directed independent worker that's able to collaborate cross-functionally Plusses: * A gamer at heart! * Experience designing for both web and for game assets * Experience with the Unreal 4 ...

KontrolFreek

Interactive Designer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Company Description KontrolFreek is an innovative, high-growth video gaming accessories company ... Independent problem-solving skills, initiative and ability to work with minimal supervision in a ...

Konami Gaming, Inc

Sound Designer II - III

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Sound Designer II - $60,000.00 - $85,000.00 Sound Designer III - $80,000.00 - $112,000.00 ... gameplay elements. * Independently manage assigned sound design tasks and small- to mid-scale ...

KontrolFreek

Interactive Designer

Atlanta, GA

Company Description KontrolFreek is an innovative, high-growth video gaming accessories company ... Independent problem-solving skills, initiative and ability to work with minimal supervision in a ...

Daybreak Games

Principal Animator

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$160K - $180K/yr

You'll collaborate directly with game designers, technical artists, programmers, and directors to ... You'll own full animation development cycles, make independent creative decisions aligned with ...

2K

Senior Level Designer

Novato, CA · On-site

$100K - $148K/yr

Use Blueprint scripting to create gameplay content. * Design and block out world geometry ... Able to work well independently, in small pods, and in larger collaborative teams. * Able to ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Level Designer

Novato, CA · On-site

$100K - $148K/yr

Use Blueprint scripting to create gameplay content. * Design and block out world geometry ... Able to work well independently, in small pods, and in larger collaborative teams. * Able to ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Level Designer

Novato, CA · On-site

$100K - $148K/yr

Use Blueprint scripting to create gameplay content. * Design and block out world geometry ... Able to work well independently, in small pods, and in larger collaborative teams. * Able to ...

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How much do independent game designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent game designer in the United States is $149,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $155,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges independent game designers face when working on their own projects?

Independent game designers often encounter challenges such as limited resources, balancing creative vision with technical constraints, and managing multiple roles—from programming to marketing. Since most indie designers work in small teams or solo, time management and prioritizing development tasks become crucial. Additionally, gaining visibility in a competitive market requires effective networking and self-promotion. Despite these hurdles, indie designers enjoy creative freedom and opportunities to build a diverse portfolio.

What is the difference between Independent Game Designer vs Game Developer?

AspectIndependent Game DesignerGame Developer
CredentialsOften self-taught or with design-focused coursesTypically holds degrees in computer science, software engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentIndependently or in small teams, often freelance or indie studiosEmployed by game studios or companies, working on larger projects
Industry UsageDesigning game concepts, mechanics, and storylinesImplementing, coding, and building the game software

While both roles are integral to game creation, an Independent Game Designer primarily focuses on conceptualizing and designing game elements, often working solo or in small teams. In contrast, a Game Developer handles the technical implementation, coding, and development of the game. Understanding these differences helps aspiring professionals choose their career path in the gaming industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Game Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Game Designer, you need a strong grasp of game design principles, creativity, and proficiency in programming or digital art, often supported by a portfolio of completed projects. Familiarity with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as knowledge of scripting languages and asset creation tools, is highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you collaborate with others and manage all aspects of development. These capabilities are crucial for delivering engaging, polished games and successfully navigating the challenges of independent production.

What is an Independent Game Designer?

An Independent Game Designer, often called an indie game designer, is a professional who creates video games independently or with a small team, without the backing of a large game publisher. They are responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and often programming and marketing their games. Indie game designers have creative control over their projects, allowing for unique and innovative gameplay experiences. This role typically involves a broad range of tasks, including art, coding, and business management, to bring their game ideas to life.
More about Independent Game Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Game Designer jobs? Cities with the most Independent Game Designer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Independent Game Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Game Designer jobs are:
Independent Game Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Game Designer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,118 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Senior Technical Designer, Events

Senior Technical Designer, Events

AGBO

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$99K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
AGBO is an artist-led independent studio founded by Anthony and Joe Russo, known for shaping the future of film and television. They are seeking a Senior Technical Designer to support the execution of large-scale Live Events for an unannounced video game title, contributing to innovative event design and ensuring a high-quality player experience.
Responsibilities:
• Drive the design vision, documentation, and implementation of major features and Live Event experiences from start to finish.
• Implement designs in Unreal Engine using Blueprints, working hand in hand with engineers, animators, VFX, and sound.
• Support collaborative, iterative prototyping from early concepts through in-engine execution.
• Participate in playtests, gather feedback, and find practical solutions to design challenges.
• Contribute to big-picture decisions and partner with other designers to keep the team focused on the highest-impact work.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 5-8 years of professional game design experience with multiple shipped titles.
• Broad knowledge of and real passion for games across genres.
• Experience on online games with live operations.
• Solid familiarity with multiplayer game design.
• Clear understanding of player motivations, behavioral patterns, and engagement systems.
• Adaptable and solutions-focused, with the ability to move quickly when priorities shift.
• Strong communicator who can align cross-disciplinary teams and take ownership of collaborative outcomes.
Company:
AGBO creates intellectual property universes spanning film, TV, audio, and interactive experiences. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Los Angeles, USA, with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.
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About AGBO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2020

Social media

Twitter

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