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Video Game Industry Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Naughty Dog

Gameplay Programmer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$144K - $160K/yr

Minimum of 2 years working in the video game industry * Bachelor's degree in computer science or equivalent work experience * Solid math skills with emphasis on 3D math * Solid knowledge of C and C ...

Spellbrush

AI Anime Researcher - LLM

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As an early team member, you'll have the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible at the intersection of the AI, anime, and video game industry. A World-Class Team: You'll work directly ...

Spellbrush

AI Anime Researcher - LLM

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As an early team member, you'll have the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible at the intersection of the AI, anime, and video game industry. A World-Class Team: You'll work directly ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$118K - $120K/yr

Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative ... Our industry-leading services include game development, art production, audio production, quality ...

Spellbrush

Front-End Engineer (Anime)

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

You love anime and the anime aesthetic As a member of our team, you'll have the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible in the anime and video game industry. Ideally you're a fan of the ...

Spellbrush

Front-End Engineer (Anime)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

You love anime and the anime aesthetic As a member of our team, you'll have the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible in the anime and video game industry. Ideally you're a fan of the ...

side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Fort Lauderdale, FL · Remote

$126K - $129K/yr

Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative ... Our industry-leading services include game development, art production, audio production, quality ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Charleston, SC · On-site

$116K - $117K/yr

Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative ... Our industry-leading services include game development, art production, audio production, quality ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site +1

$118K - $120K/yr

Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative ... Our industry-leading services include game development, art production, audio production, quality ...

Spellbrush

Front-End Engineer (Anime)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

You love anime and the anime aesthetic As a member of our team, you'll have the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible in the anime and video game industry. Ideally you're a fan of the ...

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All JobsVideo Game Industry Entry Level Jobs

Video Game Industry Entry Level information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do video game industry entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game industry entry level in the United States is $18.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the video game industry, most entry-level roles do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily rates are typically associated with highly specialized or freelance positions like top-tier game developers, consultants, or project managers with extensive experience. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or a strong reputation, and are less common at the entry level.

What are some common entry level roles in the video game industry?

Common entry-level roles in the video game industry include quality assurance testers, junior programmers, and entry-level artists or animators. These positions often require basic skills in relevant software, a passion for gaming, and sometimes a related degree or portfolio. They provide a starting point for careers in game development, design, or production.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in the video game industry, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in the video game industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced development cycles, communicating effectively within multidisciplinary teams, and staying current with rapidly evolving technologies. To overcome these, it's important to proactively seek feedback, participate in team meetings, and invest time in learning new tools and industry trends outside of work hours. Building strong relationships with peers and mentors can also help navigate the complexities of studio workflows and foster career growth.

What is the difference between Video Game Industry Entry Level vs Video Game Tester?

AspectVideo Game Industry Entry LevelVideo Game Tester
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma; no specific certifications typically required
Work EnvironmentGame studios, development teams, or remoteGame studios, testing labs, or remote
Industry UsageEntry point for various roles in game developmentSpecialized role focused on testing and quality assurance
Common Search IntentStarting a career in gamingQuality assurance and bug testing

While both roles are entry points in the gaming industry, Video Game Industry Entry Level positions encompass a broad range of roles, including testing, design, and production. Video Game Testers specifically focus on testing games for bugs and quality issues. Entry level roles may require general skills and education, whereas testers focus on quality assurance tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right positions in the gaming industry.

What are entry-level jobs in the video game industry?

Entry-level jobs in the video game industry are positions designed for individuals with little to no professional experience in game development or related fields. These roles often include titles such as QA tester, junior game designer, production assistant, or community manager. Entry-level positions provide hands-on experience, industry exposure, and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, making them a great starting point for those interested in building a career in gaming. While requirements vary, a passion for games, basic technical skills, and a willingness to learn are commonly sought after.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry-level position in the video game industry, and why are they important?

To thrive in an entry-level video game industry role, you generally need a foundational understanding of game design or development, familiarity with programming languages (such as C# or C++) or art tools, and a relevant degree or portfolio. Experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, and basic knowledge of version control systems like Git, are typically required. Creativity, teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication set candidates apart in collaborative and fast-evolving environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively contributing to projects and learning quickly within a dynamic industry.

How to get a job in the gaming industry with no experience?

Entry-level positions in the gaming industry often require a strong portfolio demonstrating relevant skills such as programming, design, or art, even without professional experience. Gaining experience through personal projects, internships, or online courses in tools like Unity or Unreal Engine can improve your chances. Networking within gaming communities and participating in game jams also help build connections and showcase your abilities.

How to make $80,000 a year without a degree?

In the video game industry, entry-level roles such as quality assurance testers or customer support specialists typically do not require a degree but usually pay less than $80,000 annually. To reach higher salaries without a degree, professionals often need to develop specialized skills like programming, 3D modeling, or game design, and gain experience through certifications or self-education, with some roles in game development or management reaching or exceeding that income level with experience and skill growth.
More about Video Game Industry Entry Level jobs
What cities are hiring for Video Game Industry Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Video Game Industry Entry Level job openings:
What states have the most Video Game Industry Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Video Game Industry Entry Level jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Industry Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Industry Entry Level jobs are:
Video Game Industry Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Industry Entry Level job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 18% Full Time, 76% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,600 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Xsolla School - Student Application (Engineering)

Xsolla School - Student Application (Engineering)

Xsolla

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Xsolla School
Xsolla School is an experiential learning program designed to help university students and recent graduates gain real-world exposure to the global video game industry. Participants learn directly from Xsolla professionals through guided mentorship, technical training, and hands-on projects.
 
Program Overview
The Builders Track focuses on Engineering and Design, the foundation of how we create, design, and deliver technology at Xsolla.
Participants will join a 8-10 week immersive program combining mentorship, technical training, and project-based learning alongside Xsolla experts. 
 
About Us
Xsolla is a global commerce company with robust tools and services to help developers solve the inherent challenges of the video game industry. From indie to AAA, companies partner with Xsolla to help them fund, distribute, market, and monetize their games. Grounded in the belief in the future of video games, Xsolla is resolute in the mission to bring opportunities together, and continually make new resources available to creators. Headquartered and incorporated in Los Angeles, California, Xsolla operates as the merchant of record and has helped over 1,500+ game developers to reach more players and grow their businesses around the world. With more paths to profits and ways to win, developers have all the things needed to enjoy the game.
For more information, visit xsolla.com.
What You’ll Learn
  • Software development fundamentals (Frontend, Backend, QA, DevOps)
  • Product design & user experience (UI/UX, prototyping, accessibility)
  • Data analytics and product insights
  • Project and product management principles
  • Agile teamwork, communication, and collaboration
  • Exposure to real Xsolla projects, SDKs, and platforms
Key Responsibilities
  • Participate in daily training sessions and workshops
  • Collaborate in cross-functional project teams (3–5 members)
  • Design, build, test, and document software or product features
  • Contribute to demo projects and final deliverables
  • Engage with mentors and apply feedback continuously
  • Maintain a professional, proactive, and curious learning attitude
Who Can Apply
  • Current students or recent graduates 
  • Fields of study: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Product Design, or related disciplines
  • Passion for gaming, technology, and building impactful digital experiences
  • Able to commit to a 8-10 week structured learning schedule 
At Xsolla, we believe the next generation of builders will shape the future of gaming and technology. If you’re passionate about learning, creating, and contributing to something meaningful, this program is for you.
 
Apply now and start building your journey with Xsolla.
 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.