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Video Game Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Exploding Kittens

Contract Game Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

An understanding of fundamental game design principles and player motivations * Experience writing and editing game rules and "how to play" video scripts * A basic understanding of graphic design, UX ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Combat Designer (AI archetype)

Novato, CA · On-site

$119K - $128K/yr

Required : • Shipped at least one AAA title as a designer responsible for AI combatants. • 5+ years professional experience in video game design. • Excellent written and verbal communication ...

Ten4

Front-end Developer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$127K - $148K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. * Work closely with UX Design and Game Design teams to define web features * Write and test ...

Ten4

Front-end Developer

Redwood City, CA

$127K - $148K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. * Work closely with UX Design and Game Design teams to define web features * Write and test ...

Netflix

Executive Producer, Mainstream Games

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$133K - $135K/yr

Expertly assess milestones, reviewing and evaluating game builds across design, creative ... Qualifications: * 15+ years of experience in Video Game Production, preferably in both Publishing ...

Netflix

Executive Producer, Mainstream Games

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$133K - $135K/yr

Expertly assess milestones, reviewing and evaluating game builds across design, creative ... Qualifications: * 15+ years of experience in Video Game Production, preferably in both Publishing ...

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All JobsVideo Game Design JobsVideo Game Design Jobs in California

Video Game Design information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$22

How much do video game design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game design in California is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Video Game Design vs Video Game Programming?

AspectVideo Game DesignVideo Game Programming
Primary RoleCreating game concepts, storylines, and gameplay mechanicsWriting code to implement game features and functionalities
Required SkillsCreativity, storytelling, understanding of game mechanicsProgramming languages, software development, problem-solving
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, collaborative teams, creative settingsDevelopment teams, technical environments, coding labs
Common CertificationsGame design degrees, portfolios, UX/UI knowledgeComputer science degrees, coding certifications, software proficiency

Video Game Design focuses on conceptualizing and designing the game's overall experience, while Video Game Programming involves coding and implementing those designs into a playable product. Both roles are essential in game development but require different skill sets and focus areas.

How do I get a job as a video game designer?

To become a video game designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in game design, computer science, or a related field, along with strong skills in programming, storytelling, and graphic design. Building a portfolio of your projects and gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles can improve your chances. Familiarity with game development tools like Unity or Unreal Engine is also beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by video game designers when working on collaborative projects?

Video game designers often work in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with artists, programmers, and sound engineers. A common challenge is effectively communicating design ideas and ensuring that everyone understands the game vision, especially as features evolve. Balancing creative input from various team members while adhering to deadlines and technical constraints can also be demanding. Successful designers develop strong communication and problem-solving skills to navigate these dynamics and keep projects on track.

What jobs can I get with game design?

With a background in game design, common jobs include game designer, level designer, game artist, game programmer, and quality assurance tester. These roles often require skills in programming, 3D modeling, storytelling, and familiarity with game development tools like Unity or Unreal Engine.

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

To thrive as a Video Game Designer, you need a solid understanding of game mechanics, storytelling, and user experience, often backed by a degree in game design, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and graphic design software, along with knowledge of scripting languages, is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication are vital soft skills for turning ideas into engaging, playable experiences within a team environment. These skills and qualities are essential for developing innovative games that captivate players and succeed in a competitive market.

What jobs are in video game design?

Jobs in video game design include roles such as game designer, level designer, character artist, environment artist, animator, and UI/UX designer. These positions often require skills in programming, graphic design, storytelling, and familiarity with tools like Unity or Unreal Engine.

Will Game Dev be replaced by AI?

Video game design involves creative and technical skills that are difficult for AI to fully replicate, such as storytelling, artistic direction, and user experience. While AI tools can assist with tasks like asset generation and testing, human designers are essential for innovation and complex decision-making in game development. Therefore, AI is more likely to augment rather than replace game developers in the foreseeable future.

What is video game design?

Video game design is the process of creating the content and rules of a video game, including its story, characters, gameplay mechanics, and environment. Game designers work closely with artists, programmers, and other team members to bring their vision to life. They are responsible for shaping the player’s experience, balancing challenges, and ensuring the game is engaging and fun. This role often involves prototyping ideas, playtesting, and iterating on feedback to improve the game before release.
What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Video Game Design jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Video Game Design jobs in California? For Video Game Design jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Design jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Video Game Design jobs? Cities in California with the most Video Game Design job openings:
Video Game Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Design job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,094 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Senior Data Science Product Leader Real-Time Gaming

Senior Data Science Product Leader Real-Time Gaming

2K Games

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$109K - $162K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

A global video game company seeks a Senior Product Manager specializing in Data Science to lead their data science platform. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of product management experience, focusing on data-driven strategies that improve game design and player engagement. Responsibilities include developing machine learning models and collaborating across game studios to implement analytics solutions. This position offers a competitive salary range of $109,800 to $162,480 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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