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Unreal Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animation Systems Programmer

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$167K - $245K/yr

In collaboration with the Unreal Engine team, we strive to put our technology and knowledge into the hands of users, empowering developers and content creators with the most powerful suite of real ...

Lead Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

The ideal candidate has significant hands-on experience developing with Unreal Engine, with either a video technology or graphics programming background to complement it. You are solutions oriented ...

... Unreal Engine 4 • Experience shipping software to the public • A love and passion for gaming Company : Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who helped and shaped the ...

... Unreal Engine 4 • Experience shipping software to the public • A love and passion for gaming Company : Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who helped and shaped the ...

... Unreal Engine 4 • Experience shipping on a major console like XBox or PlayStation • A love and passion for gaming Company : Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who ...

... Unreal Engine, ensuring they meet gameplay and performance requirements. * Collaborate closely with Design, Technical Art, Lighting, and Engineering to ensure assets integrate seamlessly into ...

... Unreal Engine 4 • Experience shipping on a major console like XBox or PlayStation • A love and passion for gaming Company : Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who ...

... Unreal Engine 4 • Experience shipping on a major console like XBox or PlayStation • A love and passion for gaming Company : Echtra Games is a game studio comprised of seasoned developers who ...

... Unreal Engine, ensuring they meet gameplay and performance requirements. * Collaborate closely with Design, Technical Art, Lighting, and Engineering to ensure assets integrate seamlessly into ...

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Unreal Developer information

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$52

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How much do unreal developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for unreal developer in California is $52.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.86 and $63.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Unreal developers, and how do teams typically address them?

Unreal Developers often encounter challenges such as optimizing performance for different platforms, integrating complex assets, and debugging intricate gameplay systems. Teams typically collaborate closely, employing regular code reviews, playtesting sessions, and performance profiling to identify and resolve issues quickly. Cross-functional communication is essential, as developers frequently work with artists, designers, and QA testers to ensure smooth gameplay and high visual fidelity. Staying adaptable and proactive in learning new Unreal Engine updates helps developers navigate evolving project needs effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Unreal developer?

To thrive as an Unreal Developer, you need strong skills in C++ programming, 3D graphics, and a deep understanding of Unreal Engine, usually backed by a degree in computer science, game development, or related experience. Proficiency with development tools such as Unreal Engine Blueprint, version control systems (e.g., Git), and experience with performance profiling are commonly required; relevant certifications can be advantageous. Effective problem-solving, communication, and the ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams are key soft skills. These capabilities ensure you can create complex, high-quality interactive experiences while meeting project timelines and collaborating effectively.

What is an Unreal developer?

An Unreal Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing interactive experiences using Unreal Engine. They work on game development, simulations, virtual production, or architectural visualizations, depending on the industry. Their tasks typically include scripting gameplay mechanics, creating visual effects, and collaborating with artists and designers to build immersive environments. Strong knowledge of Unreal Engine’s Blueprint system or C++ programming is often required.

What are popular job titles related to Unreal Developer jobs in California? For Unreal Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Unreal Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Unreal Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Unreal Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,466 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Animation Systems Programmer

Epic Games

Larkspur, CA • On-site

$167K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?
At the core of Epic's success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we're always innovating.
Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.
ENGINEERING - SPECIAL PROJECTS
What We Do
The Special Projects team at Epic is responsible for executing high-impact projects that push the envelope to define the future of real-time graphics and gaming technology (The Matrix Awakens, Lumen in the Land of Nanite). In collaboration with the Unreal Engine team, we strive to put our technology and knowledge into the hands of users, empowering developers and content creators with the most powerful suite of real-time tools in the world.
What You'll Do
Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our Special Projects team. As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in driving future projects that push boundaries, explore new technology, and help define the future of Unreal Engine. You will be responsible for developing, enhancing, optimizing, and maintaining the core animation systems and will work closely with Animation, Design, and Engineering colleagues to ensure characterful and entertaining animation that is efficient and performant. You will also help identify potential issues and deploy correct solutions, using your technical knowledge to help bridge and facilitate communication between the animation team and other departments.
In this role, you will
  • Architect, implement, and maintain core animation systems used across the Special Projects team
  • Work closely with other engineers, animators, technical animators, product designers, leads and external technology partners across multiple teams and time zones
  • Write technical documentation and designs
  • Conduct exploratory research to pioneer and develop innovative animation systems and techniques that push the boundaries of what is possible in real-time production
What we're looking for
  • Extensive experience writing C++ applications
  • Excellent linear algebra skills and applications of linear algebra in software
  • Experience with rigging systems, animation state machines, low-level animation systems, physics-based, procedural, and/or IK animation systems
  • Experience with multi-threaded programming and system tasks such as graphics, audio, I/O, networking, memory handling, debuggers, etc.
  • Experience with application-level programming, such as script compilers and user-facing tools
  • Strong artistic intuition and an eye for quality animation; as technical tooling becomes more advanced, you prioritize the visual "feel" of the animation to ensure it meets the highest standards
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, self-motivated, and able to work independently
  • Creativity in problem-solving and the ability to think outside of the established solutions
  • Knowledge of ML/AI and its potential applications
  • Someone who is user-focused, passionate, solutions-focused, and innovative. These traits equal success at Epic and influence everything we do
EPIC JOB + EPIC BENEFITS = EPIC LIFE
Our intent is to cover all things that are medically necessary and improve the quality of life. We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental, a Vision HRA, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance & a 401k with competitive match. We also offer a robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, which provides free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents. Throughout the year we celebrate our employees with events and company-wide paid breaks. We offer unlimited PTO and sick time and recognize individuals for 7 years of employment with a paid sabbatical.
California Base Pay Range
$167,399-$245,519 USD
ABOUT US
Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.
Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!
Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.
Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.