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Entry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Lil' Kickers

Lil' Kickers Soccer Coach

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Responsibilities * Entry Level - no prior coaching experience necessary. Training provided ... games and activities. * Adhere to safety guidelines outlined for Lil' Kickers programming. * Set up ...

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

Entry Level Game Programmer information

See Tennessee salary details

$10K

$84.1K

$157.5K

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game programmer in Tennessee is $84,078.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21,800.00 and $132,100.00 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.
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The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

Entry Level Game Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Programmer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,078 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Program Coordinator I (at Carver Recreation Center)

City of Johnson City

Johnson City, TN • On-site

$17.31/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee is accepting online applications for a Program Coordinator for Parks & Recreation at the Carver Recreation Center. The employee performs intermediate skilled work assisting with all aspects of programming and special events in parks and recreation. Responsibilities including scheduling of staff, events and performing entry level recreation work in the active instruction and supervision of recreation activities; does related work as required. The Program Coordinator I may report to the Center Supervisor, Recreation Services Manager, Senior Services Manager, and the Promotions and Event Coordinator. The work in this class involves assisting in organizing recreation activities and performing in a supervisory role of limited responsibility in a recreation center, or in supervising and instructing toddler, youth, teen, adults, and senior citizens in games, sports, arts and crafts and other organized recreation activities. Employees in this class normally work under close supervision, their work is subject to frequent inspection and review by superiors through observation, staff meetings and program evaluation reviews.
Essential Duties of Position:
  • Plans, organizes, implements and manages a wide variety of recreation and athletic programs, activities, and events for toddlers, youth, teens, adults and senior citizens within the City of Johnson City, TN.
  • coordinates and or assist with various after school programs, summer park activities, sporting events and clinics;
  • obtain feedback from participants
  • keep customers, maintenance and office personnel updated on the status of programs and events for assistance as needed;
  • address relevant questions, comments, and concerns of users in a timely manner;
  • work within the program budget;
  • receives and processes citizens calls;
  • schedules sports officials for athletic events, recruits volunteer coaches; monitors athletic events;
  • supervises and directs play in baseball, softball, soccer, pickleball, tennis, volleyball, football, billiards, table games and other small games;
  • request minor repairs to equipment;
  • supervises practice, games, conducts tournaments, umpires and instructs toddlers, youth, teens, adults and senior citizens in a wide variety of athletic and sports programs
  • assists in scheduling league games, and resolves disputes;
  • supervises and assists in preparations for various special events
  • instructs toddlers, youth, teens, adults and senior citizens in study activities, and in various crafts;
  • supervises free play to prevent accidents and maintain order;
  • observes necessary precautions to ensure the safety of program participants and spectators;
  • renders routine first aid in cases of minor injury;
  • chaperons groups on field trips and recreation centers; and
  • performs related tasks as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of recreation principles, and dynamics of programming and principles of community based recreation programs.
  • Knowledge of basic office principles and procedures.
  • Knowledge of various activities that make up a comprehensive recreation program, and equipment requirements of all common recreational activities.
  • Knowledge of safety hazards inherent in the use of facilities assigned to and of necessary precautionary measures.
  • Knowledge of First Aid, CPR procedures and techniques and ability to become certified.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing and demonstrate the ability to deal courteously and diplomatically with the public and participants.
  • Ability to work flexible and demanding hours including nights and weekends.
  • Able to multi-task and manage assignments to completion within expected timeframes.
  • Work requires proficient ability to read and interpret manuals, contracts, professional publication, and other documents related to job responsibility.
  • Work requires proficient ability to write rules and guidelines, letters, forms, flyers, and reports.
  • Ability to demonstrate an understanding, consideration, in respect of cultural, religious, and gender differences when interacting with the public and colleagues
  • Work requires proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, internet and email use, and scheduling programs/software.
  • Work requires the ability to be trained in some basic website design and management in order to maintain the departmental website and social media outlets.
  • Valid Tennessee Driver's License.
  • Ability to adhere to program standards and objectives outlines by supervisor.
  • Ability to resolve disputes in an impartial manner;
  • Ability to interact tactfully with the public, as well as to create an interest in and appreciation for various opportunities and outlets for recreation programming.

Acceptable Experience and Training: High School Diploma or GED required, college degree in Recreation Administration or related field preferred. One (1) to Two (2) years of similar programming experience required. CPR, First Aid certification required upon being hired. Any combination of experience and training that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Pre-employment physical, drug screening and background check required.
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