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Video Game Dev Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA

$129K - $148K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops ... Design hand-keyed animation with a highly intuitive and developed understanding of body mechanics ...

Lightspeed Studios

Senior Mission Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$93K - $216K/yr

Proven experience in mission design or level design in the video game industry (a plus but not required). * Proficiency in using game development tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, or similar.

Virtuos

Management Trainee

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

About Us Founded in 2004, Virtuos is one of the largest independent video game development companies. We are headquartered in Singapore with offices in Asia, Europe, and North America. Specializing ...

Virtuos Corporation

Management Trainee

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Founded in 2004, Virtuos is one of the largest independent video game development companies. We are headquartered in Singapore with offices in Asia, Europe, and North America. Specializing in full ...

TransPerfect

Marketing Lead

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Understanding of the video game development pipeline and creative service providers. * Experience supporting sales enablement and ABM (account-based marketing). * International marketing or multi ...

TransPerfect

Marketing Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Understanding of the video game development pipeline and creative service providers. * Experience supporting sales enablement and ABM (account-based marketing). * International marketing or multi ...

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Video Game Dev information

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How much do video game dev jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game dev 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 a video game dev?

Video game developers are professionals who design, create, and program video games for computers, consoles, and mobile devices. They work as part of a team that may include artists, designers, writers, and audio engineers to bring a game's concept to life. Their tasks range from coding and game design to testing and debugging. Video game developers often specialize in certain areas, such as gameplay programming, graphics, or artificial intelligence. Their goal is to create engaging and interactive entertainment experiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video game dev?

To thrive as a Video Game Developer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like C++ or C#), knowledge of computer graphics, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as version control systems like Git, is typically required. Creativity, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this collaborative and fast-evolving industry. These skills are vital for building engaging, technically sound games that meet project goals and resonate with players.

What are some common challenges video game devs face when working on large-scale projects?

Video game developers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multidisciplinary teams, managing tight deadlines, and maintaining consistent communication. Balancing creative vision with technical constraints and production schedules can also be demanding. Additionally, adapting to evolving technologies and responding to player feedback requires flexibility and strong problem-solving skills, making teamwork and adaptability essential in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Video Game Dev vs Game Designer?

AspectVideo Game DevGame Designer
Required CredentialsProgramming skills, computer science degree, coding certificationsCreative portfolio, game design experience, understanding of storytelling
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, programming labs, collaborative projectsDesign studios, brainstorming sessions, creative meetings
Industry UsageDevelops the actual game software, coding gameplay mechanicsCreates game concepts, storylines, and gameplay features

Video Game Developers focus on coding and building the game software, requiring programming skills and technical credentials. Game Designers concentrate on conceptualizing game ideas, storylines, and gameplay mechanics, emphasizing creativity and design expertise. Both roles collaborate closely but serve different functions within the game development process.

How much do video game developers make?

Video game developers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and company size, but the median annual wage in the industry is around $80,000. Entry-level developers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000, while experienced developers or those in senior roles can earn over $100,000. Skills in programming languages, game engines, and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

What jobs can a video game developer do?

A video game developer can work in various roles such as game programmer, game designer, quality assurance tester, technical artist, and project manager. These positions involve tasks like coding, designing gameplay, creating art assets, and testing for bugs, often requiring knowledge of programming languages, game engines, and development tools. Many developers also specialize in areas like AI, animation, or sound design within the gaming industry.
Video Game Dev jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Dev job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,094 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA

Ten4
See more jobs at Ten4external

$129K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Here at Ten4, there's a core focus on Creative Services. By only recruiting for Digital Creatives we can give the best attention and satisfaction to both the clients and the candidates. Being a niche company provides the ability to source top notch candidates and to make the best connections possible. Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. 

Job Description
  • Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand-keyed work will fit seamlessly with motion capture
  • Join forces with designers and engineers to create characters that are expressive and that still work with player control and AI
  • Design hand-keyed animation with a highly intuitive and developed understanding of body mechanics, force, balance, timing, and believability
  • Use motion capture, video, and thumbnail sketches as reference for your process
  • Prototype gameplay by blocking animation quickly; when ideas are proven, polish animations to a high level
  • Provide thoughtful feedback to team members and be open to critique
  • Create multiplayer characters and AI that execute believable and memorable performances
Qualifications
  • 5+ years in game development with at least 2 shipped games
  • Experience OR interest in PC multiplayer games
  • Experience with in-game animation and Maya
  • College/University Degree in Character Animation or similar
  • Full comprehension of camera, layout, and stagingS
  • Self-directed and independent worker

Major Plus:

  • Excellent hand-keyed facial animation
  • Motionbuilder and Unreal Engine experience
  • First-person animations experience
  • strong design eye
  • Strong knowledge of cinematography, editing, and story development
  • Experience creating state machines and controller schemes
Additional Information

Benefits and Perks: 

  • Competitive Salary with Stock Options
  • An open/unlimited Paid Time Off and Vacation Policy
  • Great medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee and dependents covered at 80% and company paid One Medical Group membership on top of your medical plan
  • Team lunch outings covered by company

Apply