ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Video Game Programmer Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Sas

Principal Simulation Architect

York, ME · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Come join our new team to unlock the power of video games engines for analytics, create cutting ... Activelyinvolve other project stakeholders (e.g. managers, developers, user interface and visual ...

All JobsVideo Game Programmer JobsVideo Game Programmer Jobs in Maine

Video Game Programmer information

See Maine salary details

$10.7K

$89.7K

$168K

How much do video game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game programmer in Maine is $89,690.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,200.00 and $140,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 popular job titles related to Video Game Programmer jobs in Maine? For Video Game Programmer jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Programmer jobs in Maine look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Programmer jobs in Maine are:
Video Game Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Programmer job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,690 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Principal Simulation Architect

Sas

York, ME • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Principal Simulation Architect- Remote or Hybrid About the job

The Simulation & Games Analytics team is looking for a Principal Simulation Architect to help us grow this new division at SAS. Come join our new team to unlock the power of video games engines for analytics, create cutting edge digital twins, develop new lines of business with leading simulation partners -- and have a ton of playing games while we’re at it!

As a Principal Simulation Architect, you will:
  • Lead the design and develop high quality, testable and scalable software solutions for Unreal Engine based digital twins within established timelines while adhering to R&D best practices and processes.
  • Work directly with game engines and back end services to develop simulation technologies, and integrate SAS analytics directly into digital twin experiences
  • Oversee project scoping and scheduling; tracks progress of individual tasks and alerts stakeholders of issues blocking or preventing completion of task.
  • Activelyinvolve other project stakeholders (e.g. managers, developers, user interface and visual designers, product managers) to ensure implementation satisfies functional requirements and is consistent with established R&D standards.
  • Ensure quality through functional, unit and performance testing; works closely with testing by providing thorough reviews of the test plan and communicates when updates to the plan should be made to cover code changes related to enhancements, redesigns and/or bug fixes.
  • Embrace curiosity, passion, authenticity and accountability. These are our values and influence everything we do.
Required qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, or a related field
  • At least 10 years of experience in software development, with a significant portion of that experience in the games industry
  • Have published multiple games and/or applications using Unreal (and/or other leading engine, but Unreal strongly preferred)
  • Production-level knowledge of Unreal and C++: experience with one or more of: Python, Rust, Go, and C#
  • Have published cloud-native (Azure, AWS, GCP) applications
  • Understand the entire lifecycle of 3D simulations and application development
  • Have an in-depth understanding of source code management and DevOps
  • Equivalent combination of related education, training and experience may be considered in place of the above qualifications.
Additional competencies, knowledge and skills
  • Publisher Experience - Prior experience working at or alongside at least 2 major game publishers
  • Application Large Team Lead - Experience leading a team of 15 or more developers
  • SAS Understanding - Working knowledge of SAS products (CI360, Intelligent Decisioning, ESP) a plus
World-class benefits

Highlights include:

  • Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental and vision plans.
  • Medical plan options include:
    • PPO with low annual deductible and copays.
    • HDHP combined with a health savings account with a contribution from SAS (no access to on-site health care center).
  • Onsite Health Care Center (HQ) that’s free to employees and family members enrolled in the PPO plan. There's a pharmacy too! Not local to HQ? The pharmacy will ship prescriptions for no additional charge!
  • An industry-leading 401k plan.
  • Tuition Assistance Program and programs and resources to support your development
  • Generous time away including vacation time, a variety of paid holidays, and our much-loved U.S. Winter Wellness Break between December 25 and January 1.
  • Volunteer Time Off, parental leave and unlimited paid sick days.
  • Generous childcare benefits for all full-time employees.
You are welcome here.

At SAS, it’s not about fitting into our culture – it’s about adding to it. We believe our people make the difference. Our inclusive workforce brings together unique talents and inspires teams to create amazing software that reflects the diversity of our users and customers.

Additional Information

To qualify, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States, and should not require, now or in the future, sponsorship for employment visa status. SAS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law. Read more: Know Your Rights.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply