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Unreal Engine Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Absurd Ventures

Software Engineer, Audio

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

As a Software Engineer with audio focus, you will be responsible for audio system support, feature ... Maintain and optimize existing systems in Unreal Engine to ensure performance and functionality.

Epic Games

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 ...

Cosm

Lead Software Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · 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 ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Sr. Gameplay Engineer (Temporary) Who We Are 2K is headquartered in Novato, California and is a ... You will bring deep Unreal Engine 5 expertise and a passion for responsive, authentic movement to a ...

Alutiiq

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

Familiarity with Unity, Unreal Engine, or Real-Time 3D development. Experience supporting Machine ... Experience programming in one or more of the following languages: Python C# C++ JavaScript ava ...

AGBO

Expression of Interest - Technical Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$136K - $163K/yr

... Engineering, helping translate creative goals into scalable technical solutions. * Support the implementation, integration, and optimization of assets within Unreal Engine, ensuring adherence to ...

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How much do unreal engine developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for unreal engine 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.

Is Unreal C++ hard to learn?

Unreal Engine developers often find C++ challenging initially due to its complexity and syntax, but with consistent practice and understanding of game development concepts, it becomes manageable. Learning Unreal C++ also involves understanding the engine's architecture and using tools like Visual Studio, which can aid in the learning process.

What is an Unreal Engine Developer job?

An Unreal Engine Developer is a software engineer or game developer who specializes in using Unreal Engine to create interactive experiences, games, simulations, and virtual environments. They work with C++ and Blueprints to design gameplay mechanics, optimize performance, and implement visuals and physics. Their role can also involve debugging, collaborating with artists and designers, and integrating third-party tools to enhance the user experience.

How much do C++ game developers make?

C++ game developers typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Developers working with Unreal Engine, which relies heavily on C++, often see higher salaries due to specialized skills in graphics and performance optimization.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or engineering management can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior or executive roles at large technology companies. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

Are Unreal Engine developers in demand?

Unreal Engine developers are in high demand across industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and virtual production due to the platform's widespread use for real-time rendering and immersive experiences. Skills in C++ and 3D modeling, along with experience in Unreal Engine, can improve job prospects as companies seek developers to create interactive content and simulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Unreal Engine Developer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Unreal Engine Developer, you need a solid grasp of C++ programming, 3D mathematics, and real-time rendering concepts, often supported by a degree in computer science, game development, or related fields. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Unreal Engine's Blueprint system, version control software (like Git), and, in some cases, certification from Epic Games or relevant online courses is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective communication are essential for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and addressing development challenges. These abilities ensure efficient production of high-quality interactive experiences and smooth integration within fast-paced development environments.

What are the primary responsibilities of an Unreal Engine Developer on a project team?

Unreal Engine Developers are typically responsible for designing, coding, and optimizing gameplay features, user interfaces, or immersive environments within the Unreal Engine platform. Daily tasks may include writing and debugging C++ code, creating or integrating assets using Blueprints, and collaborating with artists, designers, and other programmers to implement core functionalities. They also participate in team meetings to align on project milestones and resolve technical challenges. This collaborative approach ensures that the final product meets both creative vision and technical standards, making Unreal Engine Developers crucial contributors to successful interactive software projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Unreal Engine Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Unreal Engine Developer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Unreal Engine Developer jobs in California? For Unreal Engine Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Unreal Engine Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unreal Engine Developer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,466 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Software Engineer, Audio

Absurd Ventures

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Summary  

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Software Engineer to join our dynamic team. As a Software Engineer with audio focus, you will be responsible for audio system support, feature development, and project integration.  Optimize workflow and deliver rich content across large-scale dynamic environments.  Develop robust, efficient tech that can support multiple projects. 

Core Responsibilities  

  • Design and develop innovative audio features tailored to the gameplay, stories, of our open world games. 
  • Design and implement systems and tools for the audio team's needs (such as sound propagation, environmental audio, dialogue systems, music, physics systems etc.). 
  • Maintain and optimize existing systems in Unreal Engine to ensure performance and functionality. 
  • Support sound teams in audio implementation workflows. 
  • Coordinate with teams across departments through structured collaboration and communication to promote seamless audio integration. 
  • Work with the sound design team to meet project requirements within performance and memory budgets. 

Core Qualifications  

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field or equivalent work experience. 
  • 5+ years of experience in programming within the video game industry. 
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and Unreal engine or other large-scale game engine architecture. 
  • Experience implementing interactive 3D audio in dynamic game-world environments. 
  • Experience with Audiokinetic Wwise or similar real-time audio framework. 
  • Knowledge of game engines and the constraints of game consoles. 
  • Ability to work independently and also within a multidisciplinary team where you can communicate ideas with the sound team and other engineers. 
  • Knowledge of real-world acoustics and sound propagation principles. 
  • Familiar with modern solutions to automated implementation pipelines. 
  • Passion for games, enthusiasm, initiative, and a strong work ethic. 

Plus if...  

  • Previous work on AAA titles.  

Description  

  • Full-time job with benefits.  
  • Role is on-site in Santa Monica.  

Join our talented team and play a crucial role in bringing immersive worlds to life. Together, we will create extraordinary experiences that redefine the boundaries of entertainment. Apply now and contribute to our innovative projects as a Software Engineer with Absurd Ventures.  

The base pay range for this position is $115,000 to $140,000 per year. Actual compensation is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a competitive package of benefits including paid time off, sick time, company holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity. 

Apply