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Entry Level Game Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ORA_ON_SITE Description The ATC Training Scenario Developer is an entry-level technical role ideal for a college student or recent graduate with a background in game development, computer science, or ...

Collaborate with systems engineers, QA, and hardware teams to define integration requirements and ... Familiarity with simulation development using the Unity game engine or virtual/augmented reality ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description The ATC Training Scenario Developer is an entry-level technical role ideal for a college student or recent graduate with a background in game development, computer science, or ...

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Entry Level Game Programmer information

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$11K

$92.6K

$173.5K

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level game programmer in the United States is $92,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,000.00 and $145,500.00 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.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Game Programmer job openings:

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

The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Game Programmer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Game Programmer jobs include:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Game Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,636 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer with Security Clearance

BAE Systems

Nashua, NH • On-site

$64K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description Our flexible work environment provides you a chance to change the world without giving up your personal life. We put our customers first - exemplified by our missions: "We Protect Those Who Protect Us®" and "We Innovate For Those Who Move The World." Sound like a team you want to be a part of? Come build your career with us. We are looking for 2027 entry level candidates interested in joining our ES Defense software engineering team in NH/MA. Qualified candidates will have an opportunity to become a member of our team working across multiple disciplines while being exposed to the full software life-cycle in an inspired, motivating, and collaborative environment. Tasks may include coding, debugging, and integrating software, as well as the integration, regression, and requirement testing of complex SW/HW systems. In this exciting and challenging role, you will enjoy flexible scheduling with every other Friday off, an inviting and supportive culture, competitive compensation, and an excellent benefits package that includes tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees. BAE's Year One experience provides you with opportunities to jumpstart your engineering career. As part of this unique program, you will have the opportunity to:
* Explore different projects and technologies by participating in rotations.
* Develop skills by receiving immediate mentorship from experienced managers and engineers and participate in classes and workshops to expand your knowledge of yourself, technology and our company.
* Network and collaborate to make lasting connections with peers, co-workers and leadership. Required Education, Experience, & Skills * This position is open to applicants with varying levels of experience. To be considered for an Engineer I, you must have at least a bachelor's degree. To be considered for an Engineer II, you must have a master's degree. Degree in CS (Computer Science), CE (Computer Engineering), or other Scientific degree with suitable software engineering content.
* Proficiency in multiple high level programming languages (e.g. C, C++, Java, Python)
* Working knowledge of software design and code utilizing Object Oriented Analysis & Design (OOAD) technique * Must be eligible for a US DoD security clearance Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills * Operating Systems (e.g. Windows and/or UNIX/Linux)
* Software version control tools (e.g., Git, Bitbucket)
* Security clearance (Secret or higher) Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $64926 - $110374 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics. About BAE Systems Electronic Systems BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere - from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact - for our customers and the communities we serve. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

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About BAE Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US