2

Remote Game Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer, Server - NBA 2K

Novato, CA ยท On-site +1

$130K - $174K/yr

What We Need: We're seeking a Senior Engineer with a passion for server-side development to join ... Love for video games (not just ours!) This is a fully remote role that may be based anywhere in the ...

Graphics Engineer

Novato, CA ยท On-site +1

$120K - $154K/yr

As one of the world's top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to ... is a fully remote role that may be based anywhere in the United States. Below are the expected ...

Graphics Engineer

Novato, CA ยท On-site +1

$120K - $154K/yr

As one of the world's top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to ... is a fully remote role that may be based anywhere in the United States. Below are the expected ...

Senior Director, Online Services

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site +1

$227K - $337K/yr

WE ARE GAME MAKERS Who we are: We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art ... The position is for an existing vacancy. #LI-Remote #LI-Onsite #LI-Hybrid

Ads/UGC Editor

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

... of our games in house). * Small, high-impact engineering team that is scaling up. The core ... remote. Please send over your editing portfolio to blaise@triumpharcade.com after applying.

A statue of limitations on game of thrones discussions for 24 hours and a group of others who don't ... Remote work not available TRAVEL Travel not required VISA Candidate visas are not supported ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 7, 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 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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote game programmer?

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.

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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Remote Game Programmer jobs in California?

For Remote Game Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,423 per year, or $44 per hour.

Senior Engineer, Server - NBA 2K

2K

Novato, CA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$130K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

At Visual Concepts, we believe great games are made by diverse and empowered teams with a shared passion for play. As one of the world's top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to critical acclaim and commercial success. Our teams are independent and entrepreneurial. Our studios in Novato, Irvine, Budapest, Shanghai, Austin, Boise, Seoul, and Parksville, Canada are committed to artistry and technical innovation, offering top candidates the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the smartest and most creative minds in the industry.

What We Need:

We're seeking a Senior Engineer with a passion for server-side development to join the NBA 2K team! In this role, you'll take ownership across a broad technical landscape- working in distributed systems, large-scale computing, and efficient databases to build high-performance backend services. Your work will play a key role in delivering world-class online experiences that power one of the most popular sports game franchises in the world. This role reports into Lead Director of Programming.

What You Will Do:
  • Work in the backend architecture and services that support NBA 2K's online features
  • Design and optimize distributed systems to ensure scalability, reliability, and fault tolerance
  • Build and maintain large-scale computing solutions that handle millions of concurrent players
  • Develop efficient database structures and queries to support high-volume, real-time transactions
  • Deliver high-performance backend services with a focus on low latency and stability
  • Partner with engineering and design teams to enable seamless online gameplay experiences.
Who Will Be A Great Fit:
  • 5+ years of professional software development experience, with a strong focus on backend and server-side systems
  • Strong proficiency in C++ with a solid understanding of object-oriented programming principles
  • Proficiency in one or more scripting languages such as Python, PHP, Perl, or Ruby, with a strong preference for Python
  • Understanding of distributed and scalable systems
  • Proven experience with multithreaded programming, driving efficiency and stability across large-scale, real-time environments
  • Demonstrated ability to research, evaluate, and integrate emerging technologies and trends to enhance team capabilities, platform performance, and product innovation
  • BS in Computer Science or equivalent experience in large-scale software development
  • Experience developing secure transaction systems, including virtual currency and account-based features, a strong plus
  • Skilled in database optimization, including connection management and query performance tuning
  • Familiarity with online gaming architectures and service design for live, connected player experiences
  • Working knowledge of SQL databases such as MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, or similar systems
  • Video game console development experience is highly beneficial
  • Love for video games (not just ours!)

This is a fully remote role that may be based anywhere in the United States. Below are the expected salary and wage ranges for applicants based in locations where the pay transparency law is in effect: California: $130,700 - $174,300 per year. New York State (inclusive of New York City): $117,700 - $157,000 per year. Washington: $130,700 - $174,300 per year. New Jersey: $117,700 - $157,000 per year. British Columbia: $115,700 -$154,300 (CAD) per year.ย However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program. Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company's discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year; paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support; family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness-related expenses. Ontario only: The use of Artificial Intelligence is not being used to screen candidates. The position is for an existing vacancy.

To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website atย www.vcentertainment.com