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Video Game Programmer Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Video Game Programmer information

See Hawaii salary details

$11.4K

$96.2K

$180.3K

How much do video game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game programmer in Hawaii is $96,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,900.00 and $151,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a video game programmer?

Video game programmers are professionals who write the code that brings video games to life. They work closely with game designers, artists, and other team members to develop gameplay mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. Their expertise in programming languages, such as C++ or C#, allows them to create the software backbone of a game. Video game programmers may specialize in areas like graphics, physics, networking, or tools development, depending on the needs of the project. They play a crucial role in turning creative ideas into functional and entertaining games.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video game programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Video Game Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages such as C++, C#, or Java, a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals, and often a bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems, and debugging tools is typically required. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that set top programmers apart. These competencies ensure the development of high-quality, engaging games that perform well and deliver an excellent user experience.

What are some common challenges video game programmers face when working on large development teams?

Video game programmers on large development teams often encounter challenges such as coordinating code integration, managing version control conflicts, and ensuring consistent coding standards across the project. Effective communication is essential, as programmers must frequently collaborate with artists, designers, and audio engineers to implement features and troubleshoot issues. Adapting to changing project requirements and tight deadlines can also be demanding, but strong teamwork and agile development practices help teams stay on track.

What is the difference between Video Game Programmer vs Game Developer?

AspectVideo Game ProgrammerGame Developer
Primary RoleWriting code and implementing game featuresOverseeing entire game development process, including design and production
Skills & CertificationsProgramming languages (C++, C#), computer science degreesProject management, design skills, sometimes programming knowledge
Work EnvironmentGame studios, software companiesGame studios, independent teams, publishers
Industry UsageFocuses on coding and technical implementationBroader role including design, management, and coordination

While both roles are essential in game development, a Video Game Programmer primarily focuses on coding and technical implementation, whereas a Game Developer oversees the entire development process, including design and project management. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the gaming industry.

How to get a job as a video game programmer?

To become a video game programmer, develop strong programming skills in languages like C++ or C#, build a portfolio of game projects, and gain experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine. A bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is often required, along with knowledge of graphics, physics, and AI programming. Internships and networking within the gaming industry can also improve job prospects.

Is a video game programmer a good career?

A video game programmer is a specialized software developer who designs and implements code for video games, often requiring skills in programming languages like C++ and knowledge of game engines such as Unity or Unreal. The career offers opportunities in the gaming industry, but it can involve long hours and competitive job markets; success often depends on technical skills, creativity, and experience. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those passionate about gaming and programming, with potential for growth and specialization.

What are popular job titles related to Video Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii?

For Video Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Video Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii look for?

The top searched job categories for Video Game Programmer jobs in Hawaii are:

Infographic showing various Video Game Programmer job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,245 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

HNN SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHER/EDITOR - KHNL

Honolulu, HI • On-site


Gray Television
Media and Telecom • 5 - 10K employees

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 78 rated media

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers

Uninterrupted breaks


$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

About Gray Media:
Today, we are a growing multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nation's largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets serving 117 full-power television markets that collectively reach approximately 37% of US television households. The portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest-rated television station in average all-day ratings across 116 of such markets that were measured by Nielsen in 2025. We also own the largest Telemundo Affiliate group with 46 markets and Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies with the most advanced digital products and services. Our additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios.
We understand that life needs balance. That is why we offer our employees and eligible family members a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Comprehensive Medical(Rx), Dental and Vision Coverage
  • Health Savings Account with Company contributions
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Employer-paid life and disability benefits
  • Paid parental leave benefits
  • Adoption and Surrogacy Benefits
  • 401(k) Plan, including matching and profit-sharing contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Voluntary benefits, including Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Accident Insurance, and supplemental life insurance coverage
  • Paid Time Off, including Relocation PTO
  • Focus on Caring

Salary/Wage:
$50,000 - $60,000/yr.
Shift and Schedule:
Mon. - Fri. (or at Manager's Discretion)
Job Type:
Full-Time
Job Summary/Description:
Hawaii News Now is expanding its commitment to sports storytelling, live coverage, and original programming. We are seeking a creative, highly motivated Photog/Editor to help bring those stories to life. We are looking for a strong visual storyteller who thrives behind the camera and in the edit bay, someone who loves finding compelling moments, producing meaningful content, and helping shape the stories surrounding Hawai'i sports. This role will be heavily focused on shooting, editing, producing ancillary sports programming, and storytelling content. The ideal candidate is passionate about sports, highly collaborative, creatively driven, and excited to help build the future of HNN Sports. This position reports to the Sports Program Director.
Duties/Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Shoot, edit, and produce compelling sports storytelling content for HNN Sports across multiple platforms
• Help create ancillary programming surrounding HNN Sports productions, including coach and athlete features, practice coverage, fan experience stories, game previews and recaps, behind-the-scenes content, and original storytelling projects
• Produce content supporting long-form and recurring HNN Sports programming initiatives
• Capture high-quality video, sound, interviews, and visual storytelling elements in fast-paced sports environments
• Edit content for broadcast, streaming, digital, and social media distribution
• Work collaboratively with talent, producers, and sports leadership to execute storytelling priorities
• Help identify and pitch compelling story ideas that deepen fan connection and showcase the people, culture, and experiences surrounding sports in Hawai'i
• Assist with game day and sports production support when appropriate
• Work nights, weekends, holidays, and non-traditional schedules aligned with sports coverage
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including contributing to Hawaii News Now news coverage, special projects, and broader station initiatives as business needs evolve
Qualifications/Requirements:
• Experience shooting and editing video in television, sports media, digital content, documentary, or related storytelling environments
• Strong editing skills with the ability to craft compelling visual stories and emotional narratives
• Strong nonlinear editing experience preferred, including the ability to edit efficiently under deadline in a fast-paced content environment
• Experience operating professional cameras, lighting, and audio equipment
• Passion for sports storytelling and strong instincts for finding meaningful content beyond the final score
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in fast-paced environments
• Strong organizational skills, time management, and ability to meet deadlines
• Experience in sports production, feature storytelling, social video, or multimedia journalism preferred
• Ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays based on sports schedules
If you feel you're qualified and want to work with a great group of people, go to https://gray.tv/careers#currentopenings, you may type in the job title, station call letters, or click on "apply now", upload your resume, cover letter, and references
(Current employees who are interested in this position can apply through the Gray-TV UltiPro self-service portal)
KHNL-TV/Gray Media is a drug-free company
Additional Info:
Gray Media provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Gray Media complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment at every location where the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Gray Media expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with Gray's employees' ability to perform their job duties may result in discipline, up to and including discharge.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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