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Associate Game Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Designer I

Ely, IA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Game changer. Pioneer. TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering ... school diploma Associate degree in electrical, civil or mechanical engineering or similar ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

... Associates Pipe Layer Portzen Construction Data Center Technician Sedona Staffing Services ... Boyd Gaming is one of the leading companies in the gaming industry, but we've kept the culture and ...

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Associate's Degree or equivalent work experience * Recommendations from faculty in CAD program ...

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Associate's Degree or equivalent work experience * Recommendations from faculty in CAD program ...

... designed to support our team members' financial, physical, and mental well-being. Specific benefits ... Associate degree in Electronics, Computer Programming, or related field and minimum one (1) year of ...

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Associate Game Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$18.3K

$55K

$82.2K

How much do associate game designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate game designer in Iowa is $55,004.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $63,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the 3 C's of game design?

The 3 C's of game design are Character, Conflict, and Context. These elements help create engaging gameplay by developing relatable characters, meaningful challenges, and a coherent world. As an associate game designer, understanding these principles aids in designing compelling game experiences.

What does a typical day look like for an Associate Game Designer?

A typical day for an Associate Game Designer involves collaborating with senior designers and artists to develop and refine gameplay mechanics, creating and iterating on levels or features, and documenting design specifications. You might attend team meetings, playtest early builds, and gather feedback to improve the player experience. The environment is usually highly collaborative, and you'll often coordinate with programmers, artists, and QA testers to bring game concepts to life. This diverse range of tasks helps you develop a deep understanding of game development while building a strong foundation for future career growth.

What does an Associate Game Designer do?

An Associate Game Designer assists in creating game mechanics, levels, and user experiences under the guidance of senior designers. They collaborate with artists, programmers, and producers to implement and refine gameplay elements. Their responsibilities may include documentation, playtesting, data analysis, and balancing game systems. This role is often an entry-level position, providing hands-on experience in game development processes. Strong communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

How much does an AAA game designer make?

An AAA game designer typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the company's size. Senior designers or those with specialized skills may earn higher salaries, especially at major studios working on large-scale projects.

Is game design math heavy?

As an associate game designer, math skills are useful but not typically the primary focus of the role. Basic understanding of math concepts such as probability, statistics, and geometry can help in designing game mechanics and balancing, but most tasks rely on creativity, problem-solving, and software tools like spreadsheets and game engines. Advanced math is more common in specialized roles like gameplay programmers or technical designers.

What does an associate game designer do?

An associate game designer supports the development of video games by assisting with level design, gameplay mechanics, and documentation. They often collaborate with senior designers, use design tools, and contribute to creating engaging player experiences under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Associate Game Designer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Game Designer, you need a solid grasp of game mechanics, level design, storytelling, and a relevant educational background such as a bachelor’s degree in game design or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, version control systems, and knowledge of scripting languages is highly valuable. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills set successful candidates apart in collaborative development environments. These combined abilities ensure that you can effectively contribute to the creative vision and technical execution of game projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Designer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Game Designer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Game Designer jobs in Iowa? For Associate Game Designer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Game Designer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Game Designer jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Associate Game Designer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,004 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Distribution Designer I

Distribution Designer I

TRC Companies, Inc.

Ely, IA • On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


TRC Companies rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 355 rated engineering


Job description

About Us
Groundbreaker. Game changer. Pioneer.
TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining science with the latest technology to devise innovative solutions that stand the test of time. From pipelines to power plants, roadways to reservoirs, schoolyards to security solutions, clients look to TRC for breakthrough thinking backed by the innovative follow-through of an industry leader.
TRC's professionals work with a broad range of commercial, industrial and government clients and the communities they serve. We deliver breakthrough solutions that address local needs -- so our clients can better succeed in an ever-changing world.
Working at TRC means tackling interesting, meaningful projects. We pride ourselves on our collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial zeal and agile corporate structure. We recognize that the expertise of our staff is our strongest asset, so we generously reward employees for successful performance and invest in their careers through training and the development of new skills and certifications.
Overview
TRC is hiring a Distribution Designer and this position will be working within our Power Distribution Engineering team and a part of our growing Power Sector.
Responsibilities
  • Perform detailed design of overhead and/or underground electric distribution systems. This work includes the preparation of field notes, drawings, specifications, and design estimates. Possess an analytical competence to interact with variety of individuals including engineers and experienced distribution system designers.
  • Acquire a working knowledge of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), national engineering standards, utility constructions standards, and best industry engineering practices.
  • Acquire broad knowledge of engineering disciplines, including design and constructability as applied to construction methods and materials, and the economics involved
  • Maintains production and quality of projects, including field data, photographs, engineering analysis, reports, various departmental reports and databases; including file management of all documents and records as instructed by departmental guidelines
  • Preparation and modification of electrical and roadway drawings, specifications, calculations, charts & graphs, and construction drawing packages
  • Perform various field technical services for the operation, inspection, and maintenance of electrical distribution systems including system inventories and audits, joint use management and permitting, pad-mount inspections, ground-line pole inspections, metering and apparatus services, lighting audits, etc.
  • Perform field data collection utilizing laptop computer, tablet device, GPS, and other electronic devices to collect data for input into database software as necessary.
  • Develop a working knowledge telephone, cable, and other communication facilities.
  • Operate necessary equipment to take measurements on utility poles and mid-span facilities, perform pole inspections, inspect, and perform maintenance on pad-mount equipment, etc.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Present ideas effectively in formal and informal situations. Communicate well in writing and utilize proper ethics with email and telephone communications. Keep supervisor and coworkers informed.
  • Share complete and accurate information with others. Possess the ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing with all levels in the organization and with outside clients and agencies

Qualifications
Must have a high school diploma
Associate degree in electrical, civil or mechanical engineering or similar discipline (Preferred)
Experience
  • Entry level with an Associate's degree in Electrical, Civil or Mechanical Engineering
  • 1+ years Electric Utility or telecommunications field experience preferred
  • Familiarity with National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) preferred.
  • Knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office applications desired
  • AutoCAD or similar programs preferred
  • Proficient use of engineering software (Preferred)
  • No certifications required
  • Clear and Valid Driver's license is required
  • Must be 21 years of age or older

#LI-PP1
Benefits*: TRC offers a competitive benefit package consisting of:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
  • 401k package that includes both traditional and Roth IRA options and Company match.
  • Paid time off contingent upon full time or part time status and level of seniority (ranging from 15 to 25 days per year).
  • All full-time employees enjoy a minimum of 8 Paid Holidays per year.
  • TRC ensures that all employees, including those that work part-time, receive paid sick, family, and disability leave in accordance with the laws of their state of residence.

*These benefits are applicable to US employees depending on their employment status (full time, part time, or temporary). TRC offers jurisdiction specific benefit packages for International and Puerto Rico employees.
Compensation: In accordance with local law, the below salary range is applicable for the job and location associated with this requisition. Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, geographical location, and other compensable factors.
Other Compensation: Employee may be eligible for participation in the Company's annual Discretionary Bonus Program which is contingent on Company, Business Segment, and Individual performance against Key Performance Indicators which vary by year and employee.
Disclaimers
TRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
The complete job description and application are available on TRC's career site.
TRC accepts applications for this position on an ongoing, rolling basis and reserves the right to cancel this posting at any time.
Salary Range
USD $21.00 - USD $28.00 /Hr.

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