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Video Game Software Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Nintendo

Sr Software Engineer - Gameplay (NST)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

$137K - $180K/yr

As a Senior Software Engineer in Gameplay, you will have a desire for leading the implementation on ... Strong understanding of core technologies, toolsets, and common workflows for video game ...

Ten4

Senior Software Engineer - VR/Virtual Reality

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$139K - $183K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops ... Developers and Engineers who want to solve challenging Virtual Reality problems * Inventive and ...

blackapple

Game Tester

Redmond, WA

QA Testers Needed!! (Bellevue/Redmond) Video Game Testers Needed! Multiple Roles! (Bellevue ... This is a seasonal on-going project with a large local software company. This is an excellent ...

blackapple

Game Tester

Redmond, WA

$14/hr

Video Game Testers Needed! Multiple Roles! Compensation: $ 10/hr for English testing & $14/hr when doing Language Testing This is a seasonal on-going project with a large local software company. This ...

blackapple

English game tester position

Redmond, WA

... Video Game Testers Needed! Multiple Roles! compensation: 11 $/hr - English Tester ; 14 $/hr - Language Tester This is a seasonal on-going project with a large local software company. This is an ...

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

May act as liaison with Japanese developers and assists in scheduling and planning. * Coordinates ... Extensive knowledge of video game software/hardware and industry. * Excellent verbal/written ...

Apex Systems

Video Game Customer Support Specialist

Redmond, WA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.25/hr

... video game franchise. This work will be email support via Zendesk. We are looking for candidates ... Previous email or online customer support experience for software; call center work is not a direct ...

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All JobsVideo Game Software Engineer JobsVideo Game Software Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Video Game Software Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$12.5K

$170.7K

$197.4K

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

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game software engineer in Seattle, WA is $170,703.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $196,900.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Video Game Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Video Game Software Engineer job openings:
Video Game Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Software Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $170,703 per year, or $82.1 per hour.
Sr Software Engineer - Gameplay (NST)

Sr Software Engineer - Gameplay (NST)

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

$137K - $180K/yr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Nintendo rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 209 rated software companies

Job description

Nintendo Software Technology Corporation
 
Nintendo Software Technology Corporation, based in Redmond, Washington , is a wholly owned subsidiary of the world's largest manufacturer and marketer of video games, Nintendo Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan.  Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may continually improve the quality of the games that we produce. Each person employed at Nintendo Software Technology Corporation is a valued team member and is encouraged to participate in our efforts to create the highest quality games. 

Nintendo Software Technology is a tight-knit game development studio located in Redmond, WA. As part of the Nintendo family, we're passionate about creating games designed to surprise and delight our customers.

As a Senior Software Engineer in Gameplay, you will have a desire for leading the implementation on key gameplay features as well as managing small groups of engineers. You will also have a passion for games and working collaboratively across different departments to implement gameplay features that will surprise and delight players. If this sounds like you, we would love to see your resume!

Nintendo is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy and respect for each other.

For more information about NST, click here.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

  • Develops, writes clear, maintainable and portable code, and debugs using the relevant programming languages.
  • Reviews and optimizes other engineers' code.
  • Provides effective solutions by applying advanced programming skills and knowledge.
  • Provides technical documentation and explanations intended for distribution to other parties.
  • Allocates work to other team members and supervises their results.
  • Mentors less experienced members of the team.
  • Makes recommendations regarding system architectural design, data structures, and algorithm development.
  • Manages team members' performance by setting clear goals and expectations, tracking progress against the goals, ensuring feedback, and addressing performance problems and issues promptly.
  • Applies professional expertise to review, analyze and test products under development as a contributing member of a production team to ensure delivery of Nintendo's high standard of quality and timeliness.
SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS:
  • 7 or more years of software engineering experience in the relevant field.
  • Strong all-around programming skills including ability to review and optimize other engineers' code.
  • Strong understanding of core technologies, toolsets, and common workflows for video game development.
  • In-depth understanding of interactive entertainment methodologies and production pipelines.
  • Advanced knowledge of the relevant programming languages (C/C++/C#).
  • Strong preference of experience supervising a team; allocating work, supervising their results, providing clear expectations, and providing coaching and development - to ensure high-quality execution and successful outcomes.
  • Proven experience leading and mentoring other gameplay engineers.
  • Undergraduate degree in Computer Science or related field; or equivalent education and experience.

Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States to be considered. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

This position is hybrid in Redmond, WA. Hybrid positions require regular onsite work following the schedule and guidelines for their division. This position is not open to fully remote status at this time.

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