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Video Game Software Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

KLA Corporation

Software Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI

$91K - $155K/yr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications Software Engineers are core to KLA ... KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video ...

Orbotech

Software Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI

$110K - $188K/yr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications Software Engineers are core to KLA ... KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video ...

Orbotech

Software Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI

$91K - $155K/yr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications Software Engineers are core to KLA ... KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video ...

KLA Corporation

Software Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$91K - $155K/yr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications Software Engineers are core to KLA ... KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video ...

KLA Corporation

Software Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$110K - $188K/yr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications Software Engineers are core to KLA ... KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video ...

FastTek

Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Software Engineer #1052959 * GEC (Global Electronic Commerce) Hub is enterprise-level Electronic ... If AI will be used in a video interview, you'll be informed in advance and asked for your consent ...

Gentex

Embedded Software Engineer I

Zeeland, MI

$121K - $159K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW Embedded Software Engineer I at Gentex creates software code to meet product ... Experience working on video, audio, signal processing and compression. * Experience working on ...

Gentex

Embedded Software Engineer I

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW Embedded Software Engineer I at Gentex creates software code to meet product ... Experience working on video, audio, signal processing and compression. * Experience working on ...

Gentex Corporation

Embedded Software Engineer I

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$121K - $159K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW Embedded Software Engineer I at Gentex creates software code to meet product ... Experience working on video, audio, signal processing and compression. * Experience working on ...

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All JobsVideo Game Software Engineer JobsVideo Game Software Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Video Game Software Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$130.7K

$151.2K

How much do video game software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game software engineer in Michigan is $130,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $150,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Video Game Software Engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Video Game Software Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, ensuring optimal performance across different platforms, and integrating new features without introducing bugs. Collaboration with designers, artists, and QA testers is essential, which requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Additionally, tight deadlines and evolving project requirements can add pressure, making effective time management and problem-solving abilities crucial for success in this role.

What Does a Video Game Software Engineer Do?

As a video game software engineer, you program video games for a computer or console system. You collaborate with designers who create a concept and design the look and feel of the game, write code to create the characters and mechanics, and implement troubleshooting tools and processes to test for bugs before the game’s release. If necessary, you fix any issues in the code while sticking to project deadlines. You carry out your duties and responsibilities alongside a team of gaming designers, programmers, and project managers to help the project move smoothly from start to finish.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Video game software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially those in senior or lead roles at major companies, or with significant experience and specialized skills such as graphics programming or AI development. High earnings often involve bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing in addition to base salary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Video Game Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Video Game Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (typically in C++, C#, or Python), a solid grasp of computer science fundamentals, and a relevant degree such as computer science or software engineering. Experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems (e.g., Git), and possibly certifications in game development tools are highly beneficial. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills that help engineers adapt to rapidly changing design requirements and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Mastering these skills ensures efficient development cycles, high-quality gaming experiences, and successful teamwork in a competitive industry.

What is the difference between Video Game Software Engineer vs Game Developer?

AspectVideo Game Software EngineerGame Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; programming skillsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related; programming and design skills
Work EnvironmentGame studios, tech companies, independent projectsGame studios, freelance, indie development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in industry; focuses on software developmentBroader term; includes design, storytelling, and programming

While both roles involve programming and work within the gaming industry, a Video Game Software Engineer primarily focuses on coding, system architecture, and technical implementation. A Game Developer often encompasses a broader scope, including game design, storytelling, and project management. The roles overlap significantly, but the engineer is more technically specialized in software development.

What does a Video Game Software Engineer do?

A Video Game Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the software that powers video games. They write code to implement game mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. These engineers collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and other team members to ensure the game runs smoothly and provides a great user experience. Their work often involves problem-solving, optimizing code for performance, and debugging issues throughout the game development process.

Can a software engineer work on video games?

A software engineer can work on video games by developing game engines, gameplay features, or tools using programming languages like C++ or C#. They often collaborate with designers and artists and may need knowledge of graphics APIs, game development frameworks, and debugging tools. Many game studios seek engineers with experience in real-time systems and performance optimization.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Video game software engineers design and develop games using programming languages and tools, and AI can assist in automating certain tasks like testing or asset generation. However, creative problem-solving, storytelling, and complex decision-making remain human-driven aspects of game development that AI cannot fully replace.

How much does a video game software engineer make?

The average salary for a video game software engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level engineers may earn less, while experienced developers with specialized skills or working on popular titles can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.
More about Video Game Software Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Video Game Software Engineer jobs near you
Software Engineer (E)

Software Engineer (E)

KLA Corporation

Ann Arbor, MI

$91K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world's leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow's electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

Software Engineers are core to KLA's technology, while we do not currently have an opening, we are always building our Software Engineering talent community, we are interested in learning about your background.

Apply to this posting for Future Opportunities with KLA.
A) This individual will be working on building and maintaining infrastructure vital for large scale experimentation and deployment of HPC solutions. Prototyping and developing machine control and business logic solutions to build next generation products.
B) Domains in which a successful candidate will be encouraged to chip in will include data management and data loading, support for machine learning and deep learning model training. Although familiarity with Machine Learning and Deep Learning solutions would be a huge plus.
C) This is primarily a Software Engineering position. Successful candidates are passionate about software and will have outstanding skills and hands on experience with development in C/C++ and Python in a Windows/Linux environment.

D) Deep conceptual understanding of multi-threaded, multi process and distributed software systems is vital. Experience in object-oriented programming or object-oriented design is expected.
E) The candidate is expected to possess good oral and written communications skills to interact with other development and applications engineers on a daily basis.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 yearsBase Pay Range: $91,200.00 - $155,000.00Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-KLAKLA's total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.

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