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Software Engineer Game Development Jobs in Virginia

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA

$69.55K - $125.73K/yr

Participate in the full software development lifecycle, from requirements and design through ... Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$69.55K - $125.73K/yr

Participate in the full software development lifecycle, from requirements and design through ... Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$69.55K - $125.73K/yr

Participate in the full software development lifecycle, from requirements and design through ... Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA

$69.55K - $125.73K/yr

Participate in the full software development lifecycle, from requirements and design through ... Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.

Software developer roles and responsibilities include providing expertise in the full software development lifecycle, from concept and design to testing. Software developer responsibilities include ...

Software developer roles and responsibilities include providing expertise in the full software development lifecycle, from concept and design to testing. Software developer responsibilities include ...

Software developer roles and responsibilities include providing expertise in the full software development lifecycle, from concept and design to testing. Software developer responsibilities include ...

Perform all aspects of software lifecycle development and maintenance to in compliance with ... Identify or define software information and engineering requirements commensurate with the ...

Perform all aspects of software lifecycle development and maintenance to in compliance with ... Identify or define software information and engineering requirements commensurate with the ...

The Combat System Software Development team is seeking a Software Engineer to join their program in King George, VA. The qualified applicant will support the Navy's Enterprise Modeling and Simulation ...

Perform all aspects of software lifecycle development and maintenance to in compliance with ... Identify or define software information and engineering requirements commensurate with the ...

Perform all aspects of software lifecycle development and maintenance to in compliance with ... Identify or define software information and engineering requirements commensurate with the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Software Engineer Game Development information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do software engineer game development jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer game development in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Engineer in Game Development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer in Game Development, you need strong programming skills (commonly in C++, C#, or Java), a solid understanding of computer graphics and mathematics, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems such as Git, and knowledge of APIs used in gaming is essential. Creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication set candidates apart in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills are crucial for efficiently building engaging, high-quality games and overcoming the complex technical challenges unique to game development.

What are some common challenges faced by software engineers in game development, and how can they be addressed?

Software engineers in game development often encounter challenges such as optimizing performance for various hardware, managing complex codebases, and integrating new features without introducing bugs. Coordination with artists, designers, and other developers is crucial to ensure that gameplay and visuals align seamlessly. Addressing these challenges typically involves writing efficient, maintainable code, participating in code reviews, and using version control systems effectively. Proactive communication and regular playtesting also help catch issues early and maintain project momentum.

What does a Software Engineer in Game Development do?

A Software Engineer in Game Development designs, develops, and maintains the software that powers video games. They work on tasks such as creating game engines, implementing gameplay mechanics, optimizing performance, and fixing bugs. Their responsibilities may also include collaborating with artists, designers, and other engineers to ensure the game runs smoothly and meets creative goals. They often use programming languages like C++, C#, or Python, and may specialize in areas such as graphics, artificial intelligence, or networking.
Software Engineer

$69.55K - $125.73K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 424 rated business services


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to join our team in developing the forefront of unmanned and autonomous ship development for the US Government. Based in Arlington, VA, you will be embedded within an Agile Scrum team - designing, building, and testing software that powers some of the nation's most critical maritime programs. The candidate will help to lead projects of significant national importance, guiding the transformation of existing vessels into autonomous platforms and supporting the development of new ships from concept through deployment.

What You'll Work On:

Our software portfolio spans the full spectrum of autonomous maritime operations, including:

  • Ship Automation & Control Systems
  • Autonomous Navigation
  • Sensor Fusion & Processing
  • Communication Systems
  • Modeling & Simulation for verification and software testing

Primary Responsibilities

  • Analyze, design, code and update software for new features and performance improvements.
  • Participate in the full software development lifecycle, from requirements and design through implementation, testing, and deployment.
  • Mentor and coach junior engineers, fostering professional growth and elevating team capabilities.
  • Perform peer reviews of software, ensuring quality, maintainability, and adherence to best practices.
  • Drive continuous process improvement, collaborating with the team to optimize workflows, tools, and engineering practices.
  • Assist with evaluating field tests, analyzing results and transitioning findings into actionable software enhancements.
  • Engage directly with client project stakeholders, communicating technical progress, risks, and solutions effectively.
  • Some travel (up to 25%) to support field testing, client engagements, and program milestones.

Basic Qualifications

  • A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or STEM field plus 2+ years of professional software development experience, or less than 2 years of professional experience with a Master's degree.
  • Understanding of data structures.
  • Professional experience using C++ and Linux.
  • Knowledge of the Linux operating system.
  • Experience with software source control and configuration management tools.
  • Significant experience working in a team environment, including experience providing guidance and coaching other developers
  • Exposure to one or more of the following: high availability, sensor fusion, target tracking, path planning, communications systems, or military systems integration.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence)
  • Familiarity with automated build processes (Bamboo, Jenkins, etc.)
  • Professional experience using Java and front-end development frameworks.
  • Knowledge and experience with relational databases such as Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, MariaDB, or Microsoft SQL Server.
  • Experience with Python.
  • Experience designing complex systems, considering performance and user requirements.
  • Experience with interface communication standards / protocols such as TCP/IP, UDP, and DDS.
  • Familiarity with game theory, artificial intelligence, petri nets, safety critical software.
  • Demonstrated experience with Docker and Kubernetes (RKE2) in containerization, Kubernetes management and automation technologies.
  • Experienced in designing, implementing, and analyzing simulations involving extensive datasets, ensuring efficient data processing and accurate modeling outcomes.
  • Proficient in applying vector geometry concepts for spatial analysis, modeling, and problem-solving in simulation environments.
  • Active Secret Security Clearance preferred

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:May 20, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $69,550.00 - $125,725.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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