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Video Game Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Video Game Programmer information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$91.8K

$172K

How much do video game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game programmer in Virginia is $91,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,800.00 and $144,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do video game programmers make?

Video game programmers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Entry-level programmers may start lower, while experienced developers working on complex projects or with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Knowledge of programming languages like C++ and experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine can influence earning potential.

How to get a job as a video game programmer?

To become a video game programmer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field, along with proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or C#. Building a portfolio of game projects, gaining experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, and understanding game development processes are also important. Internships and networking within the industry can help secure entry-level positions.

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.

Is 30 too late to get into game development?

Video game programming is accessible at any age, and many successful developers start later in life. Building skills in programming languages like C++ or C#, gaining experience through personal projects or courses, and understanding game engines such as Unity or Unreal can help you enter the field regardless of age.

Is there a demand for game programmers?

The demand for game programmers remains strong due to the growth of the gaming industry, advancements in technology, and the need for skilled developers proficient in programming languages like C++ and Unity. Opportunities are available in both large studios and indie development, often requiring knowledge of game engines, graphics programming, and software development practices.

What are video game programmers?

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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Video Game Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Video Game Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Video Game Programmer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,841 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Sr. C++ Software Engineer- 2 Days Onsite - Reston, VA - FreeWheel

Sr. C++ Software Engineer- 2 Days Onsite - Reston, VA - FreeWheel

Comcast

Reston, VA • On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

FreeWheel, a Comcast company, provides comprehensive ad platforms for publishers, advertisers, and media buyers. Powered by premium video content, robust data, and advanced technology, we're making it easier for buyers and sellers to transact across all screens, data types, and sales channels. As a global company, we have offices in nine countries and can insert advertisements around the world.

Job Summary

The Sr. Software Engineer is responsible for developing software solutions for the Ad Serving team at FreeWheel.
The Ad Serving system is the backbone of FreeWheel's demand side platform (DSP) advertising business. It listens to billions of ad auctions per day, decides which of our hundreds of customers should participate, and executes complex bidding strategies to provide optimal results -- in milliseconds.
The Sr. Software Engineer is expected to:
- Design, own, and deliver high-quality software
- Function effectively as a member of a team
- Mentor junior engineers
- Interact with management and other members of the development group
- Continually seek to improve themselves and the company

Job Description

Essential Functions:

The Sr Software Engineer must be able to:

  • Be effective members of their team,departmentand company
  • Demonstrate good analytical abilities, attention to detail, and strong verbal/written communication skills in English
  • Work on multiple projects simultaneously when asked
  • Work with a range of technologies, programming languages, and applications
  • Write quality software within reasonabletimeframesbased on thedesigns and specifications provided

Preferred Job Knowledge,SkillsandAbilities:

  • 4+ years of professional experience withcompiled languages (C++ preferred),databases, andnetworkprogramming.
  • Solid understanding of object-oriented programming concepts
  • Proficient understanding of code versioning tools such as Git
  • Ability to adapt quickly to an existing, complex environment
  • Excellent debugging and troubleshooting abilities
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Go Lang experience is a plus
  • Ad Tech experience is a plus

CoreResponsibilities:

  • Provide technical leadership in designing, developing,maintaining, troubleshooting, and owningservers and cloud-based systems
  • Write,maintain, and deploy cloud-based software and distributed computational systems using the Linux operating system
  • Develop software and software architecture using C++
  • Plan and execute the development, testing, and deployment of new software features and improvements to cloud-based software infrastructure; work with scalable design patterns
  • Use data warehouses including Snowflake, and distributed databases, includingAerospike
  • Analyze and optimize algorithm performance; document all development activity
  • Research, write, and edit documentation and technical requirements, including software designs, evaluation plans, test results, technical manuals, and formal recommendations and reports
  • Monitor and evaluate competitive applications and products; review literature, patents, and current practices relevant to the solution of assigned projects
  • Collaborate with project stakeholders toidentifyproduct and technical requirements; conduct analysis todetermineintegration needs
  • Work with the Quality Assurance team todetermineif applications fit specification and technical requirements
  • Review code
  • Disseminate software best practices.
  • Consistent exercise of independent judgment and discretion in matters of significance.
  • Regular,consistentand punctual attendance. Must be able to work nights and weekends, variable schedule(s)andovertimeas necessary.
  • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Employees at all levels are expected to:

  • Understand our Operating Principles; make them the guidelines for how you do your job.
  • Own the customer experience think and act in ways that put our customers first, give them seamless digital options at every touchpoint, and make them promoters of our products and services.
  • Know your stuff be enthusiastic learners, users and advocates of our game-changing technology, products and services, especially our digital tools and experiences.
  • Win as a team make big things happen by working together and being open to new ideas.
  • Be an active part of the Net Promoter System a way of working that brings more employee and customer feedback into the company by joining huddles, making call backs and helping us elevate opportunities to do better for our customers.
  • Drive results and growth.
  • Support a culture of inclusion in how you work and lead.
  • Do what's right for each other, our customers, investors and our communities.


Disclaimer: This information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this role. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications.

Skills

Communication, Software Engineering, Systems Design

We believe that benefits should connect you to the support you need when it matters most, and should help you care for those who matter most. That's why we provide an array of options, expert guidance and always-on tools that are personalized to meet the needs of your reality-to help support you physically, financially and emotionally through the big milestones and in your everyday life.


Please visit the benefits summary on our careers site for more details.

Education

Bachelor's DegreeWhile possessing the stated degree is preferred, Comcast also may consider applicants who hold some combination of coursework and experience, or who have extensive related professional experience.

Certifications (if applicable)

Relevant Work Experience

7-10 YearsComcast is an equal opportunity workplace. We will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.