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Entry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Oceancomm

Entry-Level Electronics Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $80/hr

Join OceanComm's engineering team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other ... game changer for exploring the underwater world. Because radio waves attenuate quickly underwater ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

... S1 - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Type Non Benefited ... Preferences * Prior experience in any computer-related domain (homelab, robotics, CAD, game ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

... S1 - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Type Non Benefited ... Preferences * Prior experience in any computer-related domain (homelab, robotics, CAD, game ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

... S1 - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Type Non Benefited ... Preferences * Prior experience in any computer-related domain (homelab, robotics, CAD, game ...

Faithtechnologies

Solar Electrician

Chicago, IL

Cares about leading the way in construction, engineering, manufacturing and renewable energy. Cares ... Benefits are the Game-Changer We provide industry-leading benefits as an investment in the lives of ...

Faith Technologies

Solar Electrician

Chicago, IL

Cares about leading the way in construction, engineering, manufacturing and renewable energy. Cares ... Benefits are the Game-Changer We provide industry-leading benefits as an investment in the lives of ...

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All JobsGame Programmer JobsEntry Level Game Programmer JobsEntry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Game Programmer information

See Illinois salary details

$10.7K

$89.8K

$168.1K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game programmer in Illinois is $89,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,300.00 and $141,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Is it hard to get a job as an entry level game programmer?

Entry level game programmers typically need a strong foundation in programming languages like C++ or C#, along with knowledge of game engines such as Unity or Unreal. Competition can be high, but building a portfolio with personal projects or internships can improve chances of securing an entry-level position.
More about Entry Level Game Programmer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Programmer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Game Programmer job openings:

Entry Level Game Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Programmer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,766 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Entry-Level Electronics Technician

OceanComm, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Join OceanComm’s Manufacturing & Test team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other cutting-edge undersea technology. This role is for new graduates in electrical engineering technology or a related technical field who want to build a career in electronics manufacturing. You’ll start with substantial hands-on assembly, soldering, rework, inspection, troubleshooting, and production testing. As you develop, you’ll have opportunities to take on greater responsibility for manufacturing processes, test equipment, quality, and production operations. You’ll work closely with experienced engineers and technicians, receive training, and contribute to products used in defense, offshore energy, and oceanographic research.

About Us

Underwater, the wireless transfer of a single picture used to take an hour. We brought to market wireless modems that transfer data 100 to 1000 times faster. Legacy modems were basically status/command links; our modems can control undersea drones with live video feedback - a game changer for exploring the underwater world. Because radio waves attenuate quickly underwater, our modems use sound waves to communicate.

What You Will Do
  • Assemble, solder, rework, inspect, and test circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) and electro-mechanical hardware as part of regular production
  • Build and test complete modems to documented procedures and quality standards
  • Help automate our manufacturing operations using software-defined measurement equipment and collaborative robots
  • Ramp up manufacturing of our modems and ensure quality through testing
  • Design and machine mounts and housings using CAD/CAM software and a CNC mill
  • Help integrate our modems into undersea drones and other cutting-edge maritime systems
  • Help test modems and integrated systems at sea
  • Handle multiple priorities, organize workload, and meet deadlines
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities and suggest ways we can improve our manufacturing operations
  • Help build a positive and collaborative team culture that promotes product knowledge and skills development
  • Keep the workspace clean, organized, and safe for yourself and your colleagues

Requirements

  • Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or a related technical field, with an emphasis on micro-electronics
  • Significant hands-on experience in electronics assembly and soldering through coursework, projects, or work
  • Experience troubleshooting PCBAs using standard electrical test equipment such as oscilloscopes, power supplies, and digital multimeters
  • Willingness to learn and expand your skillset in surface mount soldering and rework, PCBA troubleshooting, machining, and computer scripts
  • Willing to travel up to 20% of the time
  • Ability to work on a boat to deploy and operate modems at sea
  • Ability to lift 35 lbs pounds regularly
  • U.S. Person
What Will Put You Ahead
  • Experience reworking micro pitch components such as 0201 resistors and BGAs
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex PCB schematics, mechanical drawings, equipment specs and test procedures
  • Experience with computer-aided design, 3D printing, and/or machining
  • Experience developing computer scripts, for example, to interface with lab equipment or automate tests
  • Experience working with electrical systems up to 400 VDC
  • Personal or team projects working hands-on with hardware. This could be tinkering with embedded electronics such as Arduino or ESP32, or membership in a robotics club. Maker space projects such as woodworking, metalworking, 3D printing, or resin casting are also valuable.

Benefits

  • Close mentorship and continuous professional training
  • Flexible work schedule with core hours
  • Access to advanced prototyping and manufacturing equipment, including a CNC mill, collaborative robot, and a range of 3D printers
Compensation

The pay range for this position is  $65,000 - $80,000 per year. Actual pay will depend on the candidate’s experience and skills demonstrated during interviews and other evaluations. This position will begin with a 3-month trial period, with continued full-time employment contingent on strong performance during that time.

OceanComm is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vet.