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Entry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Steely

Jr System Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

This entry-level position will work with our established team of engineers, focused on day-to-day ... Team activities and gaming We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate ...

Steely

Jr System Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

This entry-level position will work with our established team of engineers, focused on day-to-day ... Team activities and gaming We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate ...

Steely

Jr System Engineer

Reston, VA

This entry-level position will work with our established team of engineers, focused on day-to-day ... Team activities and gaming We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate ...

KCI Technologies Inc.

Field Technician 2

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

... in the game. Achievements are shared and celebrated. As a team, we are motivated to better ... THE COMPANY KCI Technologies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned engineering, consulting and ...

KCI Technologies Inc.

Field Technician 2

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

... in the game. Achievements are shared and celebrated. As a team, we are motivated to better ... THE COMPANY KCI Technologies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned engineering, consulting and ...

All JobsEntry Level Game Programmer JobsEntry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Game Programmer information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$91.8K

$172K

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

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game programmer in Virginia is $91,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,800.00 and $144,300.00 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 does an entry level game programmer do?

An entry level game programmer is responsible for assisting in the development of video games by writing, testing, and debugging code under the guidance of senior developers. They typically work on specific features such as gameplay mechanics, user interfaces, or artificial intelligence, and help ensure the game's codebase is functional and efficient. This role is ideal for individuals who are new to the industry and want to gain hands-on experience while learning from more experienced team members.

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 the most commonly searched types of Game Programmer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Game Programmer job openings:
Entry Level Game Programmer jobs near you

Jr System Engineer

Steely

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 hours ago

Job description

Overview
Are you hungry to learn more about Linux and computer networking, but often find yourself held back by red tape and monotonous IT tasking? Do you feel like your current situation is holding you back from reaching your technical potential?
Steely is the young, agile company that you can call home, nurturing your ability to "level up" your career.
Steely is looking for a "steely-eyed" individual to join our team as a Junior System Engineer. This entry-level position will work with our established team of engineers, focused on day-to-day IT responsibilities, and growing your Linux and networking skill set. Our solutions allow you to enter the world of satellites, data analytics, and secure communications, working with a talented group of driven and focused team members that will help unlock your steely resolve.
Applicants must have the ability to obtain a security clearance; therefore, US Citizenship is required.
Responsibilities
  • Monitor, analyze, and resolve system and network issues.
  • Provide comprehensive support to our internal infrastructure and external solutions.
  • Prioritize and troubleshoot time-sensitive issues.
  • Install and maintain enterprise and open-source tools and software.
  • Write scripts to resolve Linux and network issues.
  • Automate deployment and system configuration.
  • Research technical problems and document resulting information.
  • Write technical and support documentation.
  • Improve knowledge of Linux systems and computer networking.
  • Possess ability to work independently.
  • Participate in technical discussions.
  • Collaborate with other technical team members.
  • Bring your full self to work each day.

Qualifications
  • Capable of demonstrating knowledge in the fields of Computer Science or Engineering.
  • Basic understanding of Linux. Basic understanding of computer networking (OSI Model).
  • Demonstrate an attention to detail and capable of thinking on your feet.
  • Possess a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
  • Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and the drive to work through complex issues.
  • Self-starter able to work independently or within a team.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and able to pass a pre-employment drug test.

Our benefits
  • 401(k) match of 6% with immediate vesting
  • Highly subsidized Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Legal resource plan
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO)
  • 11 Federal holidays
  • Life insurance, short and long-term disability coverage paid by the company
  • Free coffee, sodas, and snacks
  • Team activities and gaming

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, national origin, color, age, military service eligibility or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other protected class. We encourage and support workplace diversity.

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