ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Video Game Design Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Gameplay Software Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$53 - $79/hr

Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may ...

Nintendo

Sr Software Engineer - Gameplay (NST)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

$137K - $180K/yr

Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may ...

Nintendo

Sr Software Engineer - Gameplay (NST)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$162K - $224K/yr

Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may ...

Rocket Game Talent

Fabrication Shop Manager

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Fabrication Shop Manager Join our client Stonewood Design as a Fabrication Shop Manager and take ... video game and interactive entertainment industries. DEI Statement: We are committed to fostering a ...

Microsoft

Software Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$133K - $219K/yr

... selling video game. You will join a team of engineers in Redmond responsible for critical ... You will partner with other peers across disciplines (Dev, Design, Product, and Quality) to ...

Nintendo

Software Engineer II (NST)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsVideo Game Design JobsVideo Game Design Jobs in Seattle, WA

Video Game Design information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$14

$21

$26

How much do video game design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game design in Seattle, WA is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $22.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video game designer?

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 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 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 you 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 game projects and gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles can improve job prospects. Familiarity with game development tools like Unity or Unreal Engine is also beneficial.

Is video game design a good career?

Video game design is a viable career that involves creating game concepts, mechanics, and visuals, often requiring skills in programming, art, and storytelling. The industry offers opportunities in entertainment, education, and simulation, with roles typically requiring a portfolio and knowledge of design tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. Job stability and salary vary based on experience, location, and company size.

What jobs are there in video game design?

In video game design, common roles include game designer, level designer, character designer, and UI/UX designer. Other positions include game programmer, animator, sound designer, and quality assurance tester, each requiring specific skills and tools like game engines and design software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Video Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Video Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Video Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Video Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Video Game Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Video Game Design jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Video Game Design job openings:

Video Game Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Design job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,952 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

CONTRACT - Gameplay Software Engineer

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Nintendo rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

Nintendo Software Technology Corporation
 
Nintendo Software Technology Corporation, based in Redmond, Washington , is a wholly owned subsidiary of the world's largest manufacturer and marketer of video games, Nintendo Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan.  Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may continually improve the quality of the games that we produce. Each person employed at Nintendo Software Technology Corporation is a valued team member and is encouraged to participate in our efforts to create the highest quality games. 

Nintendo is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy and respect for each other.

Nintendo Software Technology is a tight-knit game development studio located in Redmond, WA. As part of the Nintendo family, we're passionate about creating games designed to surprise and delight our customers. We're always on the lookout for exceptional artists to help support our Art Department.

 

As a Contract Software Engineer you will develop and implement gameplay and systems features that directly shape the player experience, working across gameplay mechanics, player controls, game objects, UI-related functionality, and lower-level game systems. As part of a highly collaborative development team, you will demonstrate the ability to partner closely with designers, artists, and other engineers to bring ideas from concept through implementation.

SUMMARY: 
An individual contributor that develops, writes, and debugs specified sections of code for assigned software projects.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

  • Develops, writes, tests, debugs, and implements code using the relevant programming languages as part of a larger project, with some direction from senior engineers and above.
  • Applies professional expertise to review, analyze and test products under development as a contributing member of a production team to ensure delivery of Nintendo's high standard of quality and timeliness.

SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS

  • 3 or more years of software engineering experience in the relevant field.
  • Ability to write clear, maintainable, and portable code.
  • Good understanding of core technologies, toolsets, and common workflows for video game development.
  • Ability to read and debug other engineers' code and solve engineering problems in the relevant field.
  • Strong knowledge of the relevant programming languages (C/C++/C#).
  • Experience developing gameplay features, systems, or player-facing functionality for shipped video games.
  • Experience implementing gameplay mechanics, player controls, game objects, or UI-driven gameplay features within a game engine.
  • Experience collaborating closely with designers, artists, and cross-disciplinary partners to iterate on gameplay experiences.
  • Preferred: Experience contributing to at least one shipped game title and ability to clearly articulate individual technical contributions.
  • Undergraduate degree in Computer Science or related field; or equivalent education and experience.

This position is hybrid in Redmond, WA. Hybrid positions require regular onsite work following the schedule and guidelines for their division. This position is not open to fully remote status at this time.

What Nintendo employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply