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Entry Level Game Programmer Jobs in British Columbia

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Entry Level Game Programmer information

See British Columbia salary details

$20.5K

$57K

$136K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game programmer in British Columbia is $57,045.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $75,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level Game ProgrammerJunior Game Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Programming skillsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, basic programming knowledge
Work EnvironmentGame studios, software companiesGame studios, tech firms
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in gaming industry for entry rolesUsed interchangeably in gaming and software development
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level programming roles in gamingExploring junior development positions in game development

Entry Level Game Programmers and Junior Game Developers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, the term 'Entry Level Game Programmer' typically emphasizes programming skills specifically for game development, while 'Junior Game Developer' may include broader responsibilities like design and testing. Both roles serve as starting points in the gaming industry, with overlapping skills but slightly different focus areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level game programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Game Programmer, you need a solid grasp of programming languages such as C++ or C#, basic game development principles, and often a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine and version control systems such as Git is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with designers and artists. These combined skills enable you to contribute efficiently to game development projects, troubleshoot issues, and work productively within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges entry level game programmers face when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level game programmers often encounter challenges such as adapting to large codebases, understanding existing game engines, and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams. It can be overwhelming to navigate legacy code or pick up new tools quickly. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to ask questions, seek mentorship from senior developers, and actively participate in code reviews. Building strong communication skills and regularly studying project documentation also play a key role in ensuring a smooth transition into professional game development.

What does an entry level game programmer do?

An entry-level game programmer works to develop application code for video games. Your duties in this career include coding different complex sequences and algorithms that can adapt to video game design. You can choose to work in a specialty of video game programming, such as graphics, network creation, artificial intelligence, or building the user interface. You take the design team’s ideas and assist them in bringing the content to life in a way that a computer understands. Other responsibilities may include trying out a prototype, testing the software for bugs and code errors once the team completes it, communicating with the designers, artists, and writers, and helping to integrate functions into the game.

More about Entry Level Game Programmer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in British Columbia? For Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in British Columbia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in British Columbia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in British Columbia are:
Entry Level Game Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Programmer job openings in British Columbia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,045 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Junior Game System Designer (Mobile Game)

IGG.com Canada

Vancouver, BC • On-site

CA$50K - CA$55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team as a Game Designer at IGG Canada!


Recent graduates are encouraged to apply. Candidates with a relevant educational background and a passion for game design are welcome.


About IGG Canada

IGG Canada is a premium mobile game and video production studio located in Vancouver, BC.

Our new studio offers a spacious, modern, and collaborative work environment with spectacular views of downtown Vancouver, the North Shore mountains, and English Bay, providing an inspiring space where creativity thrives.


IGG Canada is part of IGG (I Got Games), a global interactive entertainment company specializing in the development and publishing of mobile games. Founded in 2006, IGG has grown into one of the world's leading mobile game companies through successful partnerships with platforms including Facebook, iOS, Google Play, Amazon, and Kongregate. Today, IGG operates studios across China, the Philippines, Singapore, the United States, and Canada. 


If you are excited about creating games enjoyed by millions of players worldwide, join our Canadian team and help shape the next generation of mobile gaming.


Position: Junior Game Designer
Report to: Lead Game Designer
Department: 3D SLG Game Team
Hiring Level: Entry-Level (Graduated Students welcome)

Employment Type: Full-time
Location: 988 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K7 (fully on-site)

Salary Range: $50,000 - $55,000 annually, negotiable and commensurate with skills and experience


Employment Terms:​

  • Equal to or less than 1 year of experience: 3-month contract to start, with potential extension based on performance
  • 1-3 years of relevant experience: Initial 1-year contract​
  • More than 3 years of relevant experience: Permanent position​

Note: Contract durations may vary based on individual qualifications and experience.


Hiring Processes:

  1. Resume & Showreel/Portfolio review
  2. Test (if applicable)
  3. Interview(s)
  4. Offer


Responsibilities:

  • Gameplay Feature Design: Design engaging gameplay features that enhance player enjoyment and retention, under the direction of the Lead Designer.​
  • Player Experience: Ensure game mechanics, level progression, and in-game systems deliver a rewarding and immersive experience.​
  • Documentation: Prepare gameplay and system function documents, along with related art resource requirements, ensuring the final in-game functionality meets expectations. ​
  • Project Coordination: Drive system projects to completion, liaising with art and programming teams to ensure timely delivery.​
  • Testing & Acceptance: Conduct product testing for assigned projects, regularly inspect the game for issues, and address any deficiencies.
  • AI-Assisted Workflow: Utilize AI tools to support game design workflows by creating effective prompts, generating design references, exploring gameplay concepts, drafting documentation, and accelerating iteration.
  • Other Duties: Perform additional tasks as assigned by the team.


Requirements:

  • Experience:
    • Educational background in Game Design, Game Development, Computer Science, Interactive Media, or other related disciplines. Relevant internship, academic project, or personal game development experience is considered an asset.
    • Knowledge of game systems gained through coursework, personal projects, internships, or game analysis is preferred.
    • Familiarity with live-service mobile games is considered an asset.
  • Game Knowledge: 
    • Passionate about games and interested in gameplay and system design.Basic understanding of gameplay mechanics, progression systems, and player experience through gameplay, study, or personal research.
    • Enjoy playing games and demonstrate curiosity and analytical thinking toward game systems and player experiences.
    • Familiarity with SLG games (such as Kingshot, Whiteout Survival, Lands of Jail, or similar titles) is considered an asset.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Proficiency in Word, Excel, and other Microsoft Office applications.
    • Familiarity with the Unity game engine for reviewing and testing game builds (no programming required).
  • AI Tools:
    • Experience using AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, or similar AI tools to support game design, documentation, research, reference generation, and workflow efficiency is preferred.
  • Professional Skills: 
    • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
    • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
    • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in Canada without current or future employer sponsorship.


What We Offer

  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and prescription coverage after completing 3-month probationary period.
  • 18 days of accrued paid vacation and sick leave.
  • Reimbursement for Active Living Benefits and Training/Development fees after completing 3-month probationary period.
  • Paid studio closure during the week between Christmas and New Year's
  • Paid statutory holidays after 30 days of employment.
  • RRSP matching after 1 year.
  • Monthly commuter allowance after completing 3-month probationary period.
  • Monthly team lunches.


Perks:

  • On-site car and bike parking.
  • Work hours: 10 AM to 6 PM with paid lunch break.
  • On-site entertainment facilities, including arcade games and PS5.
  • On-site gym.
  • Casual dress code.
  • Employee discounts at nearby restaurants and cafes through company partnerships.
  • Employee-led clubs, social activities, and community initiatives supported by company funding.
  • Gifts for employees’ children.
  • Snacks and drinks provided.
  • Festival bonuses and gifts.
  • Employee referral bonuses.


If you are excited to design engaging gameplay systems and contribute to the development of our next 3D SLG mobile game, we would love to hear from you! Apply now and unleash your creativity with IGG Canada.