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Senior Gameplay Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ManTech

Wargame Developer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented WARGAME DEVELOPER to join our team in ... for senior stakeholders and lead the test and an evaluation process of a game design prior to ...

ManTech

Wargame Developer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented WARGAME DEVELOPER to join our team in ... for senior stakeholders and lead the test and an evaluation process of a game design prior to ...

Leidos

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer to join our team in developing the forefront ... Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.

Leidos

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA

$107K - $195K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer to join our team in developing the forefront ... Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.

Leidos LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$108 - $195/hr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer to join our team in developing the forefront ... Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.

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How much do senior gameplay programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior gameplay programmer in Virginia is $51.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.61 and $61.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior gameplay programmer?

Senior Gameplay Programmers are experienced software developers who focus on creating and implementing the interactive elements of video games, such as controls, mechanics, and player interactions. They collaborate closely with designers, artists, and other programmers to bring the game's vision to life, ensuring a smooth and engaging player experience. In addition to programming, they often mentor junior staff, participate in code reviews, and help shape the technical direction of the game. Their expertise is crucial in solving complex technical challenges and optimizing gameplay systems for performance and fun.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior gameplay programmer?

To thrive as a Senior Gameplay Programmer, you need advanced programming skills (typically in C++ or C#), a deep understanding of game mechanics, and several years of experience in game development. Familiarity with industry-standard game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity, version control systems, and sometimes a degree in computer science or related fields are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with designers and artists. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering high-quality, engaging gameplay experiences and leading technical innovation within a game development team.

How does a senior gameplay programmer typically collaborate with other departments during game development?

As a Senior Gameplay Programmer, you'll frequently work with designers, artists, and QA testers to bring gameplay features to life. Your role involves translating design concepts into functional game mechanics, debugging issues, and ensuring smooth integration with art and audio assets. Regular meetings and agile workflows are common, allowing you to provide technical input early in the feature design process and iterate quickly based on feedback. Strong communication skills are essential, as you'll often act as a bridge between creative and technical teams to ensure the game's vision is realized efficiently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Gameplay Programmer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Gameplay Programmer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Gameplay Programmer jobs in Virginia?

For Senior Gameplay Programmer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Gameplay Programmer jobs in Virginia look for?

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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Gameplay Programmer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Gameplay Programmer job openings:

Senior Gameplay Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Gameplay Programmer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,803 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Wargame Developer

ManTech

Quantico, VA • On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

ManTech rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 245 rated software companies

Job description

Description & Requirements
Shape the future of defense with MANTECH! Join a team dedicated to safeguarding our nation through advanced tech and innovative solutions. Since 1968, we've been a trusted partner to the Department of Defense, delivering cutting-edge projects that make a real impact. Dive into exciting opportunities in Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics and more. Propel your career forward and be part of something extraordinary. Your journey starts now-protect and innovate with MANTECH!

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented WARGAME DEVELOPER to join our team in QUANTICO, VA. 

Join the vanguard of the Marine Corps Wargaming Division as we modernize the decision environment. In this role, you will be instrumental in assisting with the transition from traditional wargaming into a high-fidelity digital future, ensuring that our nation's senior leaders have the most sophisticated tools and insights to shape future force design.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Design and produce high-quality physical player aids and reference guides while leading their evolution into interactive digital interfaces.
  • Develop, operate, maintain, and archive simulation databases using government-provided M&S tools to enhance both tabletop and digital exercises in preparation and during wargame execution.
  • Develop an interface to modeling and simulations tools that can be used in game play and operate complex digital tools during wargame execution, translating technical outputs into real-time "so-what" narratives for senior level decision makers.
  • Bridge the gap between analog play and digital environments, evangelizing the capability and utilization methods of new tools to help the customer reach digital maturity.
  • Assist the analysts in developing tools to capture player decisions and telemetry across both formats, ensuring analysts have robust data for post-game reconstruction.
  • Partner with designers and developers to refine mechanics that accurately reflect Marine Corps capabilities while remaining intuitive and "playable" for senior stakeholders and lead the test and an evaluation process of a game design prior to gameplay.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and at least 4 years' experience in wargaming, military modeling and simulation, or military operations.   A minimum of 10 years of related experience in lieu of degree.
  • Proficiency with graphic design and layout software (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, Power Point, etc.) to produce professional-grade player aids and products.)
  • Capacity to quickly learn, master, and operate new software-based modeling and simulation tools.
  • Experience developing player-facing products, reference guides, or game mechanics manuals.
  • Ability to provide examples of product development work (I.e. reference guides, branded materials, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with the transition from analog tabletop exercises (TTX) to integrated digital environments.
  • Experience with government-provided simulation tools such as AFSIM, Command PE, or similar platforms.
  • Prior experience supporting the Marine Corps or other Federal wargaming entities.
  • The ability to conduct research and capture detailed data inputs needed for game fidelity and coordinating with intel branches to capture detailed data for game play.
  • Familiarity in government and commercial game engines

Clearance Requirements:

  • Must have a current and active TS/SCI clearance.

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able and willing to perform occasional manual labor and warehouse duties, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.

The projected compensation range for this position is $85,000.00-$141,600.00. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories.  In addition, MANTECH invests in its employees beyond just compensation.  MANTECH's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, short-term and long-term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.

MANTECH considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at careers@mantech.com and provide your name and contact information.

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