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Video Game Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Netflix

Executive Producer, Mainstream Games

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$133K - $135K/yr

Synthesize feedback from stakeholders into actionable systems for developers. * Problem Solving and ... Qualifications: * 15+ years of experience in Video Game Production, preferably in both Publishing ...

Netflix

Executive Producer, Mainstream Games

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$133K - $135K/yr

Synthesize feedback from stakeholders into actionable systems for developers. Problem Solving and ... Qualifications: 15+ years of experience in Video Game Production, preferably in both Publishing and ...

Striking Distance Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$112K - $147K/yr

... game development. They are looking for a Lead Gameplay Engineer to implement a wide variety of ... Striking Distance Studios specializes in the development of video and computer games. It is a sub ...

Striking Distance Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$112K - $147K/yr

... game development. Responsibilities : • Lead a team of Gameplay Engineers to create best in class ... Striking Distance Studios specializes in the development of video and computer games. It is a sub ...

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Video Game Programming information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$22

How much do video game programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game programming 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.

How do I become 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. Developing strong programming skills in languages like C++ or C# and gaining experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine are essential. Building a portfolio of projects and understanding game design principles also improve job prospects.

Is video game programming a good career?

Video game programming is a viable career that involves designing and coding interactive entertainment using programming languages like C++ and tools such as game engines. It requires strong technical skills, problem-solving ability, and often a bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields. The industry offers opportunities in both large studios and indie development, with job stability and growth depending on experience and skill level.

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 relevant degree in computer science or game development, along with knowledge of graphics, physics, and AI, can improve job prospects.

What jobs can I get as a video game programmer?

As a video game programmer, you can pursue roles such as gameplay programmer, graphics programmer, AI programmer, tools programmer, or engine programmer. These positions involve developing game features, optimizing performance, and working with game engines like Unity or Unreal, often requiring knowledge of programming languages such as C++ or C#.

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 the complexity of projects. Entry-level programmers may start lower, while experienced developers working on advanced engines or in major studios can earn higher salaries. Skills in programming languages like C++ and knowledge of game development tools can influence earning potential.

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 skills in programming languages (such as C++, C#, or Python), a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine and version control systems like Git is commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for collaborating with designers and artists to bring game concepts to life. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing high-quality, efficient, and engaging games in a competitive industry.

How do video game programmers typically collaborate with other departments during a game's development cycle?

Video game programmers work closely with artists, designers, sound engineers, and quality assurance testers throughout the development process. This collaboration ensures that gameplay mechanics, visuals, and audio elements integrate seamlessly, and that the final product meets the creative vision and technical requirements. Regular team meetings, code reviews, and the use of project management tools help maintain clear communication and efficient workflow. Programmers often receive feedback from other departments and must be adaptable in implementing changes based on testing and design revisions.

What is the difference between Video Game Programming vs Game Design?

AspectVideo Game ProgrammingGame Design
Primary FocusWriting code to develop game mechanics, systems, and featuresCreating game concepts, storylines, and gameplay experiences
Required SkillsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software development, problem-solvingCreativity, storytelling, level design, user experience
Work EnvironmentTypically in a development team, coding in studios or remoteCollaborative with artists and programmers, often in design teams
Common UsageUsed by programmers, software engineers, and technical rolesUsed by designers, artists, and creative roles

Video Game Programming focuses on coding and technical development of games, while Game Design emphasizes creating engaging gameplay and story elements. Both roles are essential but serve different functions within the game development process.

What is video game programming?

Video game programming is the process of writing code to create the software that powers video games. Programmers work closely with designers, artists, and other team members to turn creative concepts into interactive, playable experiences. They use various programming languages and tools to build game mechanics, graphics, audio, and artificial intelligence. Video game programming can involve everything from engine development to gameplay scripting and bug fixing, making it a diverse and challenging field.

What are popular job titles related to Video Game Programming jobs in California?

For Video Game Programming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Video Game Programming jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Video Game Programming jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Video Game Programming jobs?

Cities in California with the most Video Game Programming job openings:

Video Game Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Programming job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,094 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Software Engineer - Game Dev Automation

QDStaff

San Marcos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
QDStaff is North America's leading talent source for award-winning video game companies, and they are seeking a Software Engineer to design and build next-generation automation systems for mobile games. The role involves engineering automation platforms, collaborating with game engineers, and driving technical standards to enhance development workflows.
Responsibilities:
• Engineer (design and code) automation platforms, validation systems, and internal tooling from scratch
• Architect and implement reusable frameworks that integrate directly into CI/CD pipelines and development workflows
• Design and build TypeScript-based automation services and tooling using modern development practices
• Develop AI-assisted validation and performance tooling to support rapid game iteration
• Collaborate closely with game engineers to embed automation and performance instrumentation at the system level
• Drive technical standards and best practices that improve cross-team engineering efficiency
• Contribute to runtime performance monitoring, startup optimization, and data capture systems
• Continuously evaluate emerging technologies, hardware, browsers, and platforms to strengthen automation capabilities
Qualifications:
Required:
• Engineer (design and code) automation platforms, validation systems, and internal tooling from scratch
• Architect and implement reusable frameworks that integrate directly into CI/CD pipelines and development workflows
• Design and build TypeScript-based automation services and tooling using modern development practices
• Develop AI-assisted validation and performance tooling to support rapid game iteration
• Collaborate closely with game engineers to embed automation and performance instrumentation at the system level
• Drive technical standards and best practices that improve cross-team engineering efficiency
• Contribute to runtime performance monitoring, startup optimization, and data capture systems
• Continuously evaluate emerging technologies, hardware, browsers, and platforms to strengthen automation capabilities
• Engineer-first mentality with strong ownership of systems and architecture
• Passion for building scalable tooling that other engineers rely on
• Curiosity for leveraging AI and automation to solve complex engineering problems
• Desire to innovate and elevate technical standards across teams
• Passion for gaming and game development
• Willing to relocate if not already within commuting distance to work location
• Experienced, confident and proficient at software engineering (TypeScript or C# preferred) and able to pick up programming languages as needed
• An aptitude for quickly adopting and improving new technology and technical frameworks
• A track record of mentorship, direction setting, innovation and leading by example
• Effective influencer within an agile development cell responsible for product quality with the ability to assist with project scheduling.
• Proficient in SQL Scripts and SQL Server Manager.
• Experienced with automation on iOS, Android, Windows and MacOS
• Knowledgeable in performance analysis and performance data capture (start-up and runtime performance).
• History of success working on multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Ability to work with others in a demanding and fast paced environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional software engineering experience (automation, tooling, platform, or product engineering)
• Candidates must have 2 or more years of mobile app or cross-platform web application experience.
Preferred:
• Experience with custom application development that uses AI
• Experience designing or evolving automation frameworks using modern TypeScript-based tooling
• Familiarity with browser automation tools such as Selenium, Appium, Cypress, Puppeteer, Playwright, or similar technologies
• Experience with SQL stored procedures, data extraction, and performance data analysis
• Experience designing tools that improve developer workflows or internal processes
• Experience developing or supporting slot games or web-based games
Company:
QDStaff connects iGaming and video game studios with game industry talent through recruiting and staffing services. Founded in , the company is headquartered in Boca Raton, USA, with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.

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