ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Shop LC

Broadcast Engineer I (Entry Level)

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Broadcast Engineer I (Entry Level) Work Location: Austin, TX Position Summary The Broadcast ... Demonstrated curiosity and passion for technology through school projects, home labs, gaming PCs ...

All JobsGame Programmer JobsEntry Level Game Programmer JobsEntry Level Game Programmer Jobs in Austin, TX

Entry Level Game Programmer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$10.9K

$91.8K

$172K

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game programmer in Austin, TX is $91,822.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,800.00 and $144,200.00 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 Austin, TX? The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs in Austin, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Austin, TX? For Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs? Cities near Austin, TX 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 Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,822 per year, or $44.1 per hour.
Broadcast Engineer I (Entry Level)

Broadcast Engineer I (Entry Level)

Shop LC

Austin, TX • On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Broadcast Engineer I (Entry Level)

Work Location: Austin, TX

Position Summary

The Broadcast Engineer I provides technical support for Shop LC's live television broadcast operations while working alongside experienced broadcast engineers. This entry-level position offers hands-on training with modern broadcast, streaming, networking, and production technologies in a fast-paced live television environment.
The successful candidate will gain experience supporting live broadcasts, maintaining professional broadcast equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and learning the systems that power a 24/7 television network. This role is designed as a career-development opportunity with advancement potential into Broadcast Engineer II and other engineering positions.

What You Will Learn
  • Professional live television operations
  • Broadcast video and audio systems
  • IP networking and video-over-IP workflows
  • Streaming and cloud-based broadcast technologies
  • Broadcast automation and server infrastructure
  • Preventative maintenance and technical troubleshooting
  • Live event and remote production support
Job Responsibilities
  • Support the installation, configuration, maintenance, and operation of broadcast equipment.
  • Monitor broadcast systems to ensure uninterrupted live programming.
  • Assist with diagnosing and resolving issues involving video, audio, networking, automation, servers, and transmission systems.
  • Perform preventative maintenance and routine inspections.
  • Support senior engineers during live broadcasts and special productions.
  • Provide technical support to production and operations staff.
  • Maintain studio lighting, cameras, and production equipment.
  • Maintain accurate documentation including wiring diagrams, equipment inventories, configuration changes, and troubleshooting procedures.
  • Maintain organized equipment rooms and professional cable management.
  • Record and archive broadcast content as required.
  • Follow established electrical and workplace safety procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Associate degree, technical certification, military technical training, or equivalent hands-on experience in Broadcast Technology, Electronics, Computer Networking, Information Technology, Electrical Technology, or a related technical field.
  • Basic understanding of audio/video signal flow.
  • Fundamental knowledge of computer hardware and Windows operating systems.
  • Basic networking knowledge including Ethernet, TCP/IP, IP addressing, DHCP, and managed switches.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Demonstrated curiosity and passion for technology through school projects, home labs, gaming PCs, electronics, streaming, robotics, AV work, or similar technical hobbies.
  • Strong communication skills, attention to detail, professionalism, and willingness to continuously learn.
  • Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during live broadcasts.
  • Ability to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and participation in an on-call rotation.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • Internship or hands-on experience in television, radio, live production, AV integration, or broadcast environments.
  • Exposure to broadcast cameras, switchers, routers, audio consoles, video servers, or streaming technologies.
  • Exposure to NDI, Dante, SRT, SMPTE ST 2110, cloud media workflows, or virtualization technologies.
  • Knowledge of OBS Studio, vMix, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar software.
  • Interest in obtaining SBE, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, Dante, Cisco, or similar industry certifications.

Ideal Candidate

We're looking for someone who enjoys figuring out how technology works, isn't afraid to troubleshoot problems, asks thoughtful questions, takes ownership of their work, and enjoys working in a fast-paced live production environment. You don't need to know everything—we're looking for someone with the aptitude, work ethic, and desire to become an outstanding broadcast engineer.

What Success Looks Like in Your First Year

  • Learn Shop LC's broadcast infrastructure and workflows.
  • Independently perform routine preventative maintenance.
  • Confidently troubleshoot common broadcast system issues with guidance.
  • Support live broadcasts and remote productions.
  • Become a trusted member of the engineering team while building the skills needed for advancement.

Physical Requirements

  • Stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb ladders as needed.
  • Lift and move equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
  • Work safely in studios, equipment rooms, and technical spaces.
  • Use hand tools, test equipment, and measurement devices while following established safety procedures.

Apply