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Video Game Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

Quality Engineer, Game Engine

San Mateo, CA

$82K - $105K/yr

In this role, you will focus on automating testing processes while collaborating closely with ... Partner with engineering teams (Avatar, Audio, Video, etc.) to provide specialized QA support and ...

Scopely

Lead Product Manager

Culver City, CA · On-site

$169K - $244K/yr

Set beta, soft launch, and launch KPIs for games in development and testing strategies. Formulate ... video game and global interactive entertainment company, home to many of the world's most beloved ...

Naughty Dog

SDET Programmer

Santa Monica, CA

... 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 ...

Scopely

Senior Internal Auditor

Culver City, CA · Hybrid

$92K - $114K/yr

... assisted testing methodologies What You Will Need: * Experience: 2-3 years of progressive ... Industry Background: Experience working in the video game industry or related entertainment ...

Naughty Dog

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 ...

2K Vegas

Senior Software Engineer - Automation

Novato, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... testing across 2K's game studios. This is a hands-on engineering role with growing technical ...

2K Vegas

Senior Software Engineer - Automation

Novato, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of ... testing across 2K's game studios. This is a hands-on engineering role with growing technical ...

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Video Game Testing information

See California salary details

$5

$15

$27

How much do video game testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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 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.

How much does a gaming tester make?

A video game testing job typically pays between $10 and $20 per hour, with entry-level testers earning around minimum wage and experienced testers earning higher rates. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of testing tasks, and some positions may offer freelance or contract work with different pay structures.

How much can you get paid for game testing?

Video game testers typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with entry-level positions often paying around minimum wage and experienced testers earning higher rates. Salaries can vary based on the company, location, and the tester's skills, with some freelance testers earning per project or bug report bonuses.

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.

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.

How do I become a Video Game Tester?

To become a video game tester, you should have a strong interest in gaming, good communication skills, and attention to detail. Many testers start by applying for entry-level positions at game development companies or testing firms, and familiarity with testing tools or bug tracking software can be helpful. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, and some roles may require knowledge of programming or game design concepts.

Can you actually get paid for testing games?

Video game testing is a legitimate job where testers are paid to identify bugs and provide feedback on game quality. Payment is typically hourly or per project, and testers often need skills in gaming, attention to detail, and sometimes specific software tools. However, some opportunities may be scams, so it is important to verify the legitimacy of the employer.

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 are popular job titles related to Video Game Testing jobs in California? For Video Game Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Testing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Testing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Video Game Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Video Game Testing job openings:
Video Game Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Testing job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,353 per year, or $15.1 per hour.
Embedded Systems Engineer - Egofold (AI Ranch)

Embedded Systems Engineer - Egofold (AI Ranch)

Snail Games USA

Beverly Hills, CA • On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Embedded Systems Engineer - Egofold (AI Ranch)
About Snail Games USASnail Games strives to create the new high bar for gameplay experience in online gaming. We have been a global developer and publisher of digital entertainment since 2009 and are committed to pushing the boundaries of the industry.
About EgofoldEgofold is an AI-focused product initiative incubated within Snail Games, exploring scalable systems for intelligent agents and AI-driven workflows, with roots in interactive and game-adjacent applications. The project is currently in an early product-definition phase, focused on clarifying market positioning, product direction, and long-term potential.
About the RoleEgofold is an AI-focused product initiative incubated within Snail Games, exploring scalable systems for intelligent agents and AI-driven workflows, with roots in interactive and game-adjacent applications. The project is currently in an early product-definition phase, focused on clarifying market positioning, product direction, and long-term potential.
We are seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer to lead hardware bring-up, platform integration, and real-world system development for AI-enabled edge platforms. The role will begin with off-the-shelf embedded and robotics hardware (e.g., edge compute modules, development kits, sensor platforms), with the potential to evolve into more bespoke hardware and system design as the architecture matures.
You will operate at the boundary of embedded Linux systems, hardware integration, and AI orchestration. You help define how intelligent agents transition from simulation and software into reliable physical platforms. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys owning messy integration problems, validating hardware platforms, and building robust, extensible foundations for future intelligent systems.
Job Type: Full-TimeLocation: Hybrid - Culver City, CA (4 days per week in office)
Responsibilities
  • Bring up and evaluate off-the-shelf embedded and edge compute platforms (e.g., Jetson-class systems, sensor kits, development boards).
  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and communication interfaces into cohesive embedded systems.
  • Develop and maintain embedded Linux systems, including device configuration, driver integration, and performance validation.
  • Implement communication layers between embedded hardware and higher-level AI systems.
  • Optimize latency, reliability, and deterministic behavior in constrained hardware environments.
  • Design and implement fault-tolerant mechanisms and safe system states.
  • Own end-to-end hardware/software integration for prototypes and demonstrators.
  • Build test harnesses and validation tools to support rapid iteration.
  • Contribute to architectural decisions that support modularity and future bespoke system expansion.

Minimum Requirements
  • 4+ years experience in embedded systems or platform integration engineering.
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and experience working in embedded Linux environments.
  • Experience bringing up hardware platforms and debugging hardware/software integration issues.
  • Familiarity with communication protocols such as CAN, UART, SPI, I2C, or Ethernet.
  • Understanding of real-time constraints and system-level debugging.
  • Experience working with physical hardware (motors, sensors, controllers, edge compute systems).
  • Strong systems-thinking mindset and comfort working in early-stage environments.

Nice to Have
  • Experience with NVIDIA Jetson or similar edge AI platforms.
  • Familiarity with ROS or other robotics middleware.
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing or simulation-to-real workflows.
  • Experience integrating machine learning models into embedded systems.
  • Background in robotics, applied AI startups, or hardware-focused R&D teams.

Salary Range: $130,000 - $170,000 Annually
Why Join the Snail Games USA Team?
  • True focus on work/life balance
  • Paid company holidays, vacation, and separate sick leave
  • Medical, dental, vision, and Life/LTD
  • 401k with company match

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.

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