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Video Game Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... automated testing infrastructure within the studio for use in development * Work with artists ... Minimum of 3 years working in the video game industry * Bachelor's degree in Game Development ...

SDET Programmer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$110K - $138K/yr

... automated testing infrastructure within the studio for use in development * Work with artists ... Minimum of 3 years working in the video game industry * Bachelor's degree in Game Development ...

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Video Game Testing information

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How much do video game testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game testing in California is $15.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is video game testing?

Video game testing is the process of playing video games in order to identify bugs, glitches, and other issues before the game is released to the public. Testers play through different levels, follow specific test cases, and report any problems they encounter to the development team. The goal is to ensure the game is as polished and bug-free as possible, providing a better experience for players. Video game testers often work closely with developers and may test on various platforms such as PC, consoles, or mobile devices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video game tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Video Game Tester, you need strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and a good understanding of gaming platforms and software, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with bug tracking tools such as JIRA, test case management systems, and knowledge of various gaming consoles and PC hardware are commonly required. Excellent communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help testers report issues clearly and collaborate effectively with development teams. These skills ensure thorough game evaluation, efficient issue resolution, and improved overall game quality before release.

What are some common challenges faced by video game testers, and how can they be addressed?

Video game testers frequently encounter challenges such as repetitive tasks, tight deadlines, and the need to document bugs in precise detail. It can also be demanding to play unfinished or buggy builds for extended periods, which requires patience and a keen eye for detail. Effective communication with developers and other testers is essential to ensure issues are clearly understood and prioritized. Building strong time management skills and maintaining a collaborative attitude helps testers overcome these challenges and contribute to a smoother game development process.

What is the difference between Video Game Testing vs Quality Assurance Tester?

AspectVideo Game TestingQuality Assurance Tester
CredentialsBasic gaming knowledge, sometimes certifications in testingSame as game testing, often with QA certifications
Work EnvironmentGame studios, testing labs, remote optionsGame studios, software companies, QA departments
Industry UsagePrimarily in gaming industryBroader software industry, including gaming
Job FocusFinding bugs, gameplay issues, reporting defectsEnsuring overall quality, process compliance, bug tracking

Video Game Testing and Quality Assurance Tester roles share many credentials and work environments, with game testing focusing more on bug identification during gameplay, while QA testers oversee broader quality processes. Both roles are essential in the gaming industry for delivering polished products.

Can you get paid to test video games?

Video game testing is a legitimate job where testers are paid to play and evaluate games for bugs, glitches, and quality issues. Payment varies by company and project, and testers often need to have good attention to detail and familiarity with gaming platforms. Some positions are freelance, while others are full-time roles with benefits.

How do I become a video game tester?

To become a video game tester, you should have a strong interest in gaming, good attention to detail, and basic knowledge of gaming platforms and software. Many testers start by applying for entry-level positions at game companies or testing firms, and some may pursue certifications in quality assurance or related fields to improve their chances. Strong communication skills and the ability to follow testing protocols are also important for success in this role.

How much do video game testers get paid?

Video game testers typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with entry-level positions often paying around minimum wage and more experienced testers earning higher rates. Salaries can vary based on location, company, and experience, and some testers work part-time or on contract basis while using testing tools and reporting bugs regularly.

How to get a job for video game testing?

To get a job as a video game tester, candidates should have a strong understanding of gaming, good communication skills, and attention to detail. Relevant experience can be gained through beta testing, quality assurance courses, or familiarity with testing tools. Applying to game companies, testing firms, or freelance platforms can help find opportunities in this field.

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

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

Infographic showing various Video Game Testing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,353 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Business Development Manager

Snail Games USA

Beverly Hills, CA • On-site, Remote

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Business Development Manager

Location: Los Angeles, CA

About Us: Snail Games USA is a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment across multiple platforms. We are seeking a passionate Business Development Manager to help grow our publishing business.

Job Summary:

The Business Development Manager (BDM) will be joining a global team of highly dedicated professionals providing global world class video games industry publishing. The ideal candidate would be an accomplished sales executive with demonstrable success in growing new business in a technology related services business. Direct experience of the video games market would be advantageous. In this role, the primary focus will be on new business generation but some account management of existing and new accounts will be involved as well. Performance-driven and growth-oriented. You have an intrinsic will to succeed while unafraid to try, fail, and learn by experimenting with new approaches and testing ideas.

  • Cooperative. You help others succeed; you give and receive feedback well.

  • Relentlessly curious. You ask questions.

  • Humble. You ask for help; you are quick to admit and learn from your mistakes.

  • SMART. You work and communicate in ways that are specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, and timebound.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Develop net-new business sales to agreed sales targets.

  • Identify new prospective clients, develop and execute sales development strategies for these.

  • Work with the CEO to develop a communications plan for the market.

  • Develop and execute contact strategies including cold calling, social and business networking.

  • Attend qualified trade conferences and provide on stand support where the Company is exhibiting.

  • Provide customer support, managing client expectations in collaboration with the Production Teams.

  • Follow the company’s chosen sales methodology and produce all related reports.

  • Qualify all sales leads, provide value/benefit assessments and generate plans to close.

  • Work with the service delivery teams to create quotations for new and existing customers.

  • Act as Account Manager for selected customers, managing the relationship with the client, customer review meetings and participating in the communications with the client as planned.

  • Manage and control pricing and contractual issues according to company procedures.

  • Source new high-potential game studios for publishing. Research, reach out, talk to, and meet with studios around the world. Your goal is to close new publishing partnerships with mobile game developers.

  • Onboard and coach studios when they first start working with us on various aspects of their games.

  • Develop a good relationship with the studios to ensure you can close those that show potential.

  • Analyze the games from a metrics, gameplay, and design point of view and share your assessment with our teams.

  • In collaboration with our marketing team, get involved in creating content — such as articles, webinars, or interviews.

  • Help reshape and improve our Game Publishing department by getting involved proactively.

Requirements

  • Strong understanding of the video game industry, including game development cycles, market dynamics, and distribution models

  • Refined communication skills across all communication channels.

  • Proven ability to work largely unaided in detecting, qualifying and closing new business.

  • Excellent problem solving and analytical skills.

  • Strong computer skills, including experience with spreadsheets, word processing, and sales database tools.

  • Strong interpersonal skills.

  • Effective time management.

  • Minimum 5 years prior relevant experience.

  • Must be comfortable working at senior executive contact levels.

  • Must be self-motivated and able to operate in a remote environment.

  • Willingness to travel extensively.

  • Strong game industry network.

  • Familiarity with the gaming ecosystem, concepts such as IAA, LTV, RPI, ARPDAU, and the logic behind them.

  • Good analytical skills and attention to detail to support the UA teams in making revenue projections and other calculations.

  • Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and proactively with colleagues across multiple countries and time zones.

  • Serious passion for gaming and deep knowledge of games.

Salary Range: $100,000 to $130,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.

  • Retirement Plans: 401(k)

  • Paid Time Off: Generous PTO policy including vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.

  • Professional Development: Access to training, workshops, and conferences to enhance technical skills and industry knowledge.

Work Authorization Requirements

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application. This position does not offer visa sponsorship now or in the future (including H-1B).

Additional Information

As part of the Company’s activities in video game development, publishing, and short-form video content creation, certain projects, discussions, or creative materials may include themes, visuals, language, or subject matter that some individuals could find mature, violent, sexual, graphic, or otherwise sensitive in nature (collectively referred to as “Mature Content”). Examples may include, but are not limited to, depictions or descriptions of combat, violence, adult themes or relationships, suggestive or satirical humor, or strong language. Employees are expected to engage with such material in a professional and creative context as part of their job duties.