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Entry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Capable of demonstrating knowledge in the fields of Computer Science or Engineering. * Basic ... Team activities and gaming Compensation We believe in paying fairly and competitively based on the ...

Jr System Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$80K - $99K/yr

This entry-level position will work with our established team of engineers, focused on day-to-day ... Team activities and gaming Compensation We believe in paying fairly and competitively based on the ...

Jr System Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$80K - $99K/yr

This entry-level position will work with our established team of engineers, focused on day-to-day ... Team activities and gaming Compensation We believe in paying fairly and competitively based on the ...

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

This is not an entry-level role; we need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or ... You will work directly in the lab alongside our engineering leads to prototype and produce hardware ...

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

This is not an entry-level role; we need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or ... You will work directly in the lab alongside our engineering leads to prototype and produce hardware ...

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

This is not an entry-level role; we need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or ... You will work directly in the lab alongside our engineering leads to prototype and produce hardware ...

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 ...

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 Jul 14, 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Programmer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,841 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

$80K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Steely is a fast-growing, high-tech, mission-driven company based out of Reston, Virginia that prides itself on delivering technical and mission-related solutions that allow our customers to succeed in achieving their most challenging goals. We are a close-knit team of highly motivated and skilled individuals that are focused on a commitment to facing the most complex and difficult efforts head-on with a balance of creativity and discipline, and an unwavering nerve.    

Our Team embraces the concept that the sky's the limit. Regardless of where you are at in your career, our goal is to work with you to refine your skills, add to your technical tool belt, and aid you in your growth as a professional. We offergrowth opportunitiessuch as leadership training, industry conferences, and mentorship from experienced, passionate individuals.  

Candidates must be able to hold and maintain a security clearance, therefore U.S. citizenship is required. 


  • 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. 

  • 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 


Compensation

We believe in paying fairly and competitively based on the value each team member brings to the role. Individual compensation is determined by factors such as skills, experience, education, certifications, location, and market data. The anticipated salary range for this position is $80,000 - $99,194 annually.

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.