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Entry Level Game Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

QA Graphics

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3D Graphic Designer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Opportunity QA Graphics is looking for an entry level 3D Designer to join our in house creative ... Degree or coursework in 3D design, animation, game design, multimedia design, industrial design ...

New

BAE Systems

Eng I - Elec

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$59K - $100K/yr

BAE Systems is looking for an entry level Electrical Engineer with a passion for engineering and ... Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and ...

BAE Systems

Eng II - Ind

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$72K - $122K/yr

By integrating the disciplines of Industrial Engineering and Project Management, you will be ... Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and ...

TRC Companies, Inc.

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 ... * Entry level with an Associate's degree in Electrical, Civil or Mechanical Engineering * 1+ years ...

All JobsGame Developer JobsEntry Level Game Developer JobsEntry Level Game Developer Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Game Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$101.9K

$169.1K

How much do entry level game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game developer in Iowa is $101,883.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,600.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level game developers when working on their first projects?

Entry level game developers often encounter challenges such as balancing creative ideas with technical limitations, adapting to collaborative workflows, and managing tight deadlines. Learning to navigate large codebases, understanding version control systems, and effectively communicating with designers, artists, and senior programmers are key aspects of the role. Overcoming these hurdles requires a willingness to learn, ask questions, and seek feedback from teammates, which helps foster both technical and interpersonal growth within a supportive game development environment.

Will AI replace game devs?

AI is unlikely to fully replace entry level game developers, as creative design, problem-solving, and programming skills remain essential in game development. AI tools can assist with tasks like asset generation and coding, but human oversight and creativity are critical for creating engaging games. Developers will need to adapt by learning new tools and focusing on areas where human input is vital.

What Does an Entry-Level Game Developer Do?

As an entry-level game developer, your responsibilities revolve around programming the algorithms and code that control video games. Your duties are to develop action sequences in games, graphical user interfaces, and other basic tools that allow seamless gameplay. You must be conscious of console or computer requirements, such as memory usage and graphics chip limitations, and you should be able to identify and fix glitches in the game quickly. You work closely with other programmers and QA testers to ensure that you deal with these issues systematically.

What is the 80 20 rule in game development?

In game development, the 80/20 rule suggests that roughly 80% of the game's value comes from 20% of the features or work. Entry level game developers often focus on core mechanics and essential assets first to maximize impact and efficiency during development cycles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Game Developer vs Junior Game Programmer?

AspectEntry Level Game DeveloperJunior Game Programmer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related fieldBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentGame studios, indie developers, or freelance projectsGame development teams, software companies, or indie studios
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in gaming industry for entry rolesOften used interchangeably with Entry Level Game Developer in job listings
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in a related field and involve working in game development environments. While the titles may differ slightly, they often refer to similar entry-level positions focused on coding, debugging, and supporting game projects. The main difference lies in terminology preference among employers, but both roles serve as starting points for a career in game programming.

What does an Entry Level Game Developer do?

An Entry Level Game Developer assists in the creation and implementation of video games by writing code, debugging, and collaborating with other team members such as artists and designers. They typically work under the supervision of senior developers and are often responsible for smaller features or specific tasks within a larger project. Their work may include programming gameplay mechanics, fixing bugs, and learning new tools and technologies used in game development. This role is an excellent starting point for those looking to gain experience and grow within the gaming industry.

Is 30 too late to get into game development?

Entry level game developers can start at any age, including 30 or older, as the industry values skills, portfolio, and continuous learning. Many successful developers have transitioned into the field later in life by learning programming languages like C++ or Unity, and building a strong portfolio through personal projects or courses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Game Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Game Developer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages like C++ or C#, basic game design principles, and typically a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems like Git, and basic graphic or animation tools is highly beneficial. Creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills that help you collaborate and adapt in dynamic development environments. These skills ensure you can efficiently contribute to game projects, meet technical requirements, and work well within multidisciplinary teams.

How to be a game developer with no experience?

Entry level game developers typically start by learning programming languages such as C# or C++, and gaining familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine. Building a portfolio with small projects, participating in game jams, and studying game design principles can help demonstrate skills to employers without prior professional experience.
More about Entry Level Game Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Game Developer jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Game Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Game Developer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Game Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Game Developer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Game Developer job openings:
Entry Level Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Developer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,883 per year, or $49 per hour.
3D Graphic Designer

3D Graphic Designer

QA Graphics

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

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Job description

Opportunity

QA Graphics is looking for an entry level 3D Designer to join our in house creative team in Ankeny, Iowa.


This is a great opportunity for someone with strong 3D modeling skills who wants to grow in a professional production environment. The right person does not need years of industry experience, but they do need a solid portfolio, strong Adobe Illustrator skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to follow standards, learn quickly, and produce consistent work.


QA Graphics specializes in visual design for the building automation industry. Our 3D team creates HVAC equipment, building visuals, system graphics, floor plan visuals, animations, and other technical graphics used by contractors, engineers, facility teams, and building owners.


This full time position is available immediately and will be located at QA Graphics’ office in Ankeny, Iowa.


See Our Work

Take a look at what our team has created in the past. We are looking for someone who has the ability and interest to grow into this type of work.


QA Graphics YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@qagraphics/featured


Company

QA Graphics is a leader in the building automation industry. The company specializes in HVAC graphic development services, system graphics, floor plan graphics, 3D graphics, animation, and related visual solutions.


All core production work is completed in house by our team in Iowa. We do not outsource our graphic production work.


Visit www.qagraphics.com to learn more.


Responsibilities and Duties

The Entry Level 3D Designer will work with our design team to create clean, consistent, and accurate 3D assets and graphics.

  • Create and modify 3D models based on reference images, drawings, sketches, and internal standardsAssist with HVAC, mechanical, architectural, and building related 3D assets
  • Assist with PNG based graphics and future vector based graphic production
  • Create clean, organized artwork that can support future vector library standards
  • Follow established QA Graphics modeling, naming, file setup, and production standards
  • Apply basic materials, textures, lighting, and rendering techniques
  • Make revisions based on team feedback
  • Maintain organized project files and meet assigned deadlines
  • Learn the building automation system industry and how 3D graphics are used in BAS projects
  • Work in a structured, team based production environment

Qualifications

  • Degree or coursework in 3D design, animation, game design, multimedia design, industrial design, architecture, or a related field preferred
  • Strong portfolio showing 3D modeling ability
  • Entry level candidates will be considered
  • Experience with Cinema 4D required
  • Strong Adobe Illustrator skills required
  • Adobe Photoshop experience preferred
  • Basic understanding of modeling, materials, lighting, and rendering
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to follow standards and repeat a consistent process
  • Good organization and time management skills
  • Willingness to learn technical subject matter related to HVAC, buildings, and automation systems
  • Must be able to work in person at our Ankeny, Iowa office

Additional Desired Skills

  • Familiarity with Octane Render
  • Experience creating product, equipment, mechanical, architectural, or hard surface models
  • Understanding of computer hardware, GPUs, and rendering workflows
  • Interest in technical visualization
  • Ability to take feedback and improve work quickly
  • Comfortable working in a small company, collaborative culture
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to grow into a specialized production role.

Compensation

Pay is determined based on experience and portfolio quality. This is an entry level position.

QA Graphics offers full benefits, including health, dental, vision, 401(k) with matching, paid time off, and both long term and short term insurance.

Company Description

QA Graphics is a full-service outsourcing company, providing custom HVAC system graphics, as well as design services for interactive platforms. We help clients visualize their needs and simply their lives. Our talented designers come form a wide range of backgrounds to provide the personal attention and expertise needed to being our clients’ ideas to life.