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Senior Game Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stardock Corporation

Senior Game Developer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed in C++, has shipped titles in the past and loves strategy games. This is a salaried, full-time ...

Stardock Corporation

Senior Game Developer

Plymouth, MI

$120K - $160K/yr

Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed in C++, has shipped titles in the past and loves strategy games. This is a salaried, full-time ...

A5 Labs

Senior Game Developer At A5 Labs, we are pioneers in creating exceptional AI-driven solutions that redefine industry standards. Our innovative approaches empower users and businesses worldwide. We ...

teamLFG

OR

As a Senior Game Engineer - Graphics on teamLFG, you will work closely with artists, designers and engineers to build expressive gameplay experiences for a multiplayer game while also driving visual ...

Epic Games

Senior Game Security Engineer

Cary, NC

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for a Senior Game Security Engineer to join our Anti-Cheat team and work with not only our titles but a wide variety of games from around the world. You'll join a ...

Epic Games

Senior Game Designer

Cary, NC

What You'll Do Epic Games is seeking an experienced Senior Game Designer to join our Music team ... Partner closely with audio and engineering teams to develop intuitive tools and mechanics that ...

Relevate Health

$100K - $125K/yr

Senior Game Producer Level Ex Games (Powered by Relevate Health) is a fast-growing game studio that ... Join a team of top artists, engineers, designers, and others who've joined us from prominent gaming ...

teamLFG

Senior Game Engineer - Graphics

$160K - $240K/yr

As a Senior Game Engineer - Graphics on teamLFG, you will work closely with artists, designers and engineers to build expressive gameplay experiences for a multiplayer game while also driving visual ...

Hasbro

Sr Game Developer - D&D

Renton, WA · Hybrid

We are seeking a Senior Game Developer to provide in-depth review and quality control of D&D products produced outside the Game Design team. In this role, you'll ensure that game content is ...

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Senior Game Programmer information

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How much do senior game programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior game programmer in the United States is $52.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.99 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 30 too old to get into game dev?

Senior game programmers can successfully enter the industry at age 30 or older, as experience, skills in programming languages like C++ or C#, and familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal are valued regardless of age. Many professionals transition into game development later in their careers, and a strong portfolio or relevant certifications can help demonstrate capability. Age is generally not a barrier if you have the necessary technical skills and a passion for game development.

Is AI replacing game devs?

As a senior game programmer, AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks like procedural content generation and testing, but it does not replace the need for skilled developers who design, implement, and optimize game systems. Human creativity, problem-solving, and understanding of player experience remain essential in game development. AI is more of an aid that enhances productivity rather than a replacement for game developers.

What is the difference between Senior Game Programmer vs Game Developer?

AspectSenior Game ProgrammerGame Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, experience in programming languages like C++/C#Bachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related field, programming skills often required
Work EnvironmentFocus on coding, debugging, optimizing game systems, often in a team of programmersBroader role including design, scripting, and sometimes project management, working across departments
Industry UsageCommonly used in game studios for technical rolesUsed broadly for roles involving game creation, including design and development

The main difference is that a Senior Game Programmer specializes in coding and technical development of game systems, while a Game Developer has a broader role that may include design, scripting, and project coordination. Senior Game Programmers focus on technical implementation, whereas Game Developers often handle multiple aspects of game creation.

How does a Senior Game Programmer typically collaborate with other teams during the development cycle?

Senior Game Programmers play a central role in cross-functional collaboration throughout the game development process. They frequently work alongside designers to translate gameplay ideas into functional mechanics, coordinate with artists to ensure asset integration, and partner with QA testers to identify and resolve bugs. Clear communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the Senior Game Programmer often bridges technical and creative visions, helping to guide less-experienced programmers and align multiple teams towards a shared project goal.

What is the 80 20 rule in game development?

In game development, the 80/20 rule suggests that roughly 80% of the results come from 20% of the efforts, meaning a senior game programmer should focus on the most impactful features and tasks to optimize productivity and project success. Prioritizing core gameplay mechanics and critical systems often yields the greatest progress with less time spent on less significant details.

What are Senior Game Programmers?

Senior Game Programmers are experienced software developers who design, implement, and optimize code for video games. They typically lead programming teams, mentor junior developers, and collaborate closely with artists, designers, and other departments to bring game concepts to life. Their responsibilities often include solving complex technical challenges, ensuring high performance and stability, and making key decisions about game architecture and technology. Senior Game Programmers usually have several years of industry experience and deep knowledge of programming languages such as C++ or C#. They play a crucial role in shipping polished, high-quality games.

How much does a senior game dev make?

A senior game programmer typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often have strong skills in programming languages like C++ or C#, and experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine.

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

To thrive as a Senior Game Programmer, you need deep expertise in programming languages like C++ or C#, solid knowledge of game development frameworks, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as proficiency in debugging, optimization, and version control systems like Git, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and mentor junior developers. These skills are crucial to delivering high-quality, performant games while ensuring efficient teamwork and project success.
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Senior Game Programmer jobs near you
Senior Game Developer

Senior Game Developer

Stardock Corporation

Plymouth, MI • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Are you an avid gamer interested in creating awesome games? Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed in C++, has shipped titles in the past and loves strategy games. This is a salaried, full-time position at our Plymouth, Michigan office and relocation assistance will be provided.


Primary Responsibilities Include:

  • Implement low level systems such as windowing, controllers, rendering, audio, and networking.
  • Architect, build and maintain core systems in modern C++ on multicore CPUs.
  • Write technical documents describing core systems.
  • Mentor and collaborate with other developers in a team environment.
  • Work closely with Design, Production, and Art to develop requirements and implementation plans.
  • Manage timelines and milestones to meet stakeholder expectations.
  • Work closely with Production and QA to address bugs.


Education and/or Experience Desired:

  • 7+ years of experience in game or simulation development.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or relevant field.
  • Strong C++ background.
  • Passion for games and game design.
  • Self-motivated and loves solving problems.
  • Experience with modern graphics APIs (DirectX, OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal).
  • Expertise in several of the following: Optimization, networking, UI/UX, AI, generative AI, physics, data management, graphics, gameplay, audio, HLSL/GLSL shaders, pipelines, terrain.
  • Able to learn new technology quickly and execute on a schedule in a fast-paced cross-discipline team environment.
  • Experienced with version control software (e.g. Perforce, SVN, etc.).


The salary for this position ranges from $120,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on your qualifications, experience, and expertise. Stardock is committed to offering a competitive compensation package tailored to the right candidate.

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