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Entry Level Game Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 Aug 2, 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.

2nd Shift Project Engineer

Suffolk Construction

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$65K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Suffolk Construction rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
About Suffolk
Suffolk is a national enterprise that builds, innovates and invests. Suffolk is an end-to-end business that provides value throughout the entire project lifecycle by leveraging its core construction management services with vertical service lines that include real estate capital investment, design, self-perform construction services, technology start-up investment (Suffolk Technologies) and innovation research/development.
Suffolk - America's Contractor - is a national company with more than $5.0 billion in annual revenue, 2,600 employees, and main offices in Boston (headquarters), New York City, Miami, West Palm Beach, Tampa, Estero, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. Suffolk manages some of the most complex, sophisticated projects in the country, serving clients in every major industry sector, including healthcare, life sciences, education, gaming, transportation/aviation, government, mission critical and commercial. Suffolk is privately held and is led by founder, chairman and CEO John Fish. Suffolk is ranked #8 on ENR's list of "Top CM-at-Risk Contractors." For more information, visit www.suffolk.com and follow Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.
The Role
Please note this position follows a second-shift schedule (4:00 PM - 2:00 AM)
The Mission Critical Center of Excellence manages billions of dollars in projects annually, specializing in data center and mission-critical construction for leading technology and telecommunications clients across the United States. Focused on fast-paced, MEP-intensive projects, the group is recognized for delivering complex solutions while offering significant opportunities for career advancement within the thriving mission-critical construction industry.
The Project Engineer assists in managing, evaluating, and assessing information necessary to construct the project on time
Responsibilities
  • Assist with document control and Exhibit Bs
  • Read and understand basic shop drawings and compare them to project documents. Verification of shop drawings to field conditions
  • Assist in maintenance of project file
  • Support the quality control and punch list process
  • Assist with site logistics and Construction Management Plan
  • Assist with establishing and maintaining vertical and horizontal control on the project
  • Assist with safety requirements on the job
  • Assist with the Baseline Schedule updates
  • Assist Superintendent with project documentation including the Daily Report

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent construction management experience
  • Demonstrated leadership skills and aptitude.
  • Highly organized, able to prioritize and multi-task
  • Candidate must possess Suffolk's Core Values: Passion, Integrity, Hard Work, Professionalism, and Caring

#MCHIRING
Working Conditions
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time; talk or hear; perform fine motor, hand and finger skills in the use of a keyboard, telephone, or writing. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; and reach with arms and/or hands. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. The employee will spend their time in an office environment with a quiet to moderate noise level. Job site walking.
EEO Statement
Suffolk provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, citizenship, genetic information, disability, protected veteran, gender identity, age or any other status protected by law. This policy applies to recruiting, hiring, transfers, promotions, terminations, compensation, benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment. Suffolk will not tolerate any unlawful discrimination toward, or harassment of, applicants or employees by anyone at Suffolk, or anyone working on behalf of Suffolk.
Compensation Information
Where required by law, pay ranges can be found in Suffolk's job postings. Base Salary for this position is just one component of Suffolk's total rewards package for employees. Actual salaries may be based on several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's skill set, experience, education and other qualifications. Suffolk offers a comprehensive benefits package as part of its overall total rewards strategy. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly to reflect market trends.

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