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Remote Game Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Systems Designer

Glendale, CA · Remote

$91K - $140K/yr

This is a remote opportunity and reports to our Lead System Designer. What You Will Do: * Be a hands-on developer in the creation of content for several interactive games and experiences based on ...

Senior Level Designer

Glendale, CA · Remote

$100K - $154K/yr

This is a remote opportunity and will report to the Lead Level Designer What You Will Do: * Be a hands-on developer in the creation of content for several interactive games and experiences based on ...

Lead UI Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$133K - $198K/yr

WE ARE GAME MAKERS Who We Are: We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art ... This includes dynamic screen layouts, remote control reordering, friction reduction, and real-time ...

Lead UI Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$133K - $198K/yr

WE ARE GAME MAKERS Who We Are: We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art ... This includes dynamic screen layouts, remote control reordering, friction reduction, and real-time ...

Executive Producer, Party Games

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$133K - $135K/yr

... game development processes, including design, programming, art, and audio. Ability to manage ... Remote OK. Generally, our compensation structure consists solely of an annual salary; we do not ...

Executive Producer, Party Games

Los Gatos, CA · On-site +1

$144K - $146K/yr

... game development processes, including design, programming, art, and audio. Ability to manage ... Remote OK. Generally, our compensation structure consists solely of an annual salary; we do not ...

Senior Tools Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$112K - $154K/yr

Our client is looking for a Tools Programmer to join their fully remote team to build next generation MMOs and Multiplayer Games. They currently need a programmer passionate about terrain and ...

Senior AI Engineer

San Rafael, CA · On-site +1

$160K - $190K/yr

Collaborate with design, animation, and gameplay teams to prototype, iterate, and deliver new AI ... Collaborate with technical leaders to uphold engineering best practices, coding standards, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Remote Game Programmer information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$91.4K

$171.2K

How much do remote game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote game programmer in California is $91,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,700.00 and $143,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Remote Game Programmer vs Remote Game Designer?

AspectRemote Game ProgrammerRemote Game Designer
Primary RoleWriting code to develop game features and mechanicsCreating game concepts, storylines, and gameplay experiences
Required SkillsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software developmentCreativity, storytelling, game design tools
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with programmers, artists, and testersWorks closely with programmers and artists to shape game vision
Industry UsageCommonly employed in game development studios and remote teamsUsed in game studios, often collaborating remotely with development teams

While both roles are essential in game development, Remote Game Programmers focus on coding and technical implementation, whereas Remote Game Designers concentrate on conceptualizing and designing gameplay. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How does working remotely as a game programmer affect collaboration with other team members?

As a remote game programmer, you'll primarily collaborate with designers, artists, and other programmers through online tools like Slack, Zoom, and project management platforms. Clear communication and strong self-management skills are essential since you won't be meeting colleagues face-to-face regularly. You'll often participate in daily stand-ups, code reviews, and sprint planning sessions virtually. While remote work offers flexibility, staying aligned with the team and project timelines requires proactive communication and regular check-ins.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Game Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Game Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages such as C++, C#, or Java, along with a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems (e.g., Git), and possibly certifications in software development are valuable assets. Excellent problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and clear communication skills help you collaborate effectively across distributed teams. These skills ensure you can deliver high-quality, efficient code and work productively in a remote, collaborative game development environment.

What is a Remote Game Programmer?

A Remote Game Programmer is a software developer who specializes in creating video games while working from a location outside of a traditional office, often from home. They write code to implement game features, fix bugs, and ensure the game's performance and functionality across different platforms. Remote Game Programmers collaborate with artists, designers, and other developers using online tools to contribute to the development process. This role requires strong programming skills, proficiency in languages such as C++ or C#, and familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal. Communication and self-motivation are essential for success in a remote setting.
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Game Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Game Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Remote Game Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Remote Game Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Remote Game Programmer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,423 per year, or $44 per hour.
Systems Designer

$91K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life

Posted 12 days ago


Walt Disney Company rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 50 rated entertainment


Job description

Job Posting Title:

Systems Designer

Req ID:

10154488

Job Description:

Disney Digital Entertainment

Disney Digital Entertainment is looking for a Systems Designer to join us on an ambitious and exciting new project. If you are an imaginative creator with superb game development skills, and have a love of Disney /Pixar, 20th Century, Star Wars and Marvel properties, you'll want to check out this opportunity! We are building an experienced development team that will help create groundbreaking game experiences that will herald the next generation of Disney to the world. Working with top-class industry talent, this role is perfect for the seasoned game developer looking to create something epic - collaborating with a robust group of developers focusing on individual experiences to create a wonderfully rich and cohesive product that is truly "Disney".

This is a remote opportunity and reports to our Lead System Designer.

What You Will Do:

  • Be a hands-on developer in the creation of content for several interactive games and experiences based on Disney's robust portfolio of characters and worlds including Disney/Pixar, 20th Century, Marvel and Star Wars.
  • Create game content using Unreal Engine, UEFN (Unreal Editor for Fortnite), and scripting in Verse in both the development and live service environments.
  • Design and develop a variety systems, content, and features from core systems and game mechanics, to player progression and metagame systems.
  • Support multidisciplinary teams efforts to implement gameplay features from concept to release. Write, update, and maintain detailed systems design documentation.

Basic Qualifications and Skills:

  • 3 years of game development experience, including at least one shipped game in a similar role.

    Developed systems using Unreal Engine and/or UEFN and adept in the use of C++, Blueprints and/or the Verse Scripting language.

    Excel at partnering and collaborating with key stakeholders, working through challenging problems and reaching consensus to achieve great things.
  • Have a special appreciation of Disney's IP, including characters and lore, linear media and movie franchises, theme parks design, and overall aesthetics.
  • Enjoy creative problem-solving and building something new and innovative.
  • Have a strong sense of what makes for fun and compelling game systems.
  • Working knowledge in two or more of the following system design disciplines: Combat Design, Progression Design, Economy Design, Gameplay Mechanics Design, 3C's (Character, Control, and Camera) design.
  • Able to communicate effectively with other teams and groups.
  • Have a deep understanding of standard mathematics, statistics, and probability as it pertains to game design and balance.
  • Strong technical skills, with experience with visual scripting languages and/or industry standard toolsets
  • (Unity, Unreal, etc.)
  • Are skilled with MS Office, specifically Excel.

Education:

  • A Bachelor's degree in Game Design or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Additional Information:

  • If you are sharing a portfolio, please include or disable any passwords for consideration

Our Benefits: Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits

#LI-REQ

#Gamesjobs

#LI-Remote

The hiring range for this remote position is $91,000 to $140,200 per year, which factors in various geographic regions. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered

Job Posting Segment:

NA - Games

Job Posting Primary Business:

Regional (NA - Games)

Primary Job Posting Category:

Games-Design

Employment Type:

Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Glendale, CA, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:

2026-07-02

What Walt Disney Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Walt Disney logo

About Walt Disney

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Disney, we're storytellers. We make the impossible, possible. We do this through utilizing and developing cutting-edge technology and pushing the envelope to bring stories to life through our movies, products, interactive games, parks and resorts, and media networks. Now is your chance to join our talented team that delivers unparalleled creative content to audiences around the world. "We create happiness." That's our motto at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. And it permeates everything we do. At Disney, you'll help inspire that magic by enabling our teams to push the limits of entertainment and create the never-before-seen!

Industry

Amusement, gambling, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Burbank, CA, US

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