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Entry Level Video Game Developer Jobs in Arizona

Code Ninjas

Coding Instructor

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$11.50 - $15.25/hr

... and building video games they love. Kids have a blast and can't wait to come back. Parents are ... Do you enjoy teaching and building problem-solving skills in young engineering minds? Have you ...

Round One Entertainment

Associate

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$17 - $18.75/hr

Facility-Mechanic Round One Entertainment is looking to hire a part-time, non-exempt Entry Level Mechanic. Are you into video games, bowling, karaoke? Are you friendly, outgoing? Do you enjoy being ...

Round One Entertainment

Associate

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16 - $17.75/hr

Facility-Mechanic Round One Entertainment is looking to hire a part-time, non-exempt Entry Level Mechanic. Wage: $16.00 - 17.75/Hour NO EXPERIENCE IS NECCESSARY Are you into video games, bowling ...

Fox

Broadcast Reliability Engineer I

Tempe, AZ

$98K - $123K/yr

We changed the game on sports and news production. Now we're looking to change the game again. We ... Experience with production video and broadcast operations * Experience with IP networking and ...

Code Ninjas

Coding Instructor

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Do you enjoy teaching and building problem solving skills in young engineering minds? Have you ... own video games. Kids have fun, parents see results ® . Code Ninjas is creating the problem ...

Code Ninjas

Coding Instructor

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Do you enjoy teaching and building problem solving skills in young engineering minds? Have you ... own video games. Kids have fun, parents see results ® . Code Ninjas is creating the problem ...

CDM Smith

Environmental Engineer 1

Phoenix, AZ

Company Overview Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here! Join Us! CDM ... CDM Smith is looking for an entry-level Environmental Engineer to join our Water Services Group in ...

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Entry Level Video Game Developer information

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$11

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How much do entry level video game developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level video game developer in Arizona is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Video Game Developer vs Junior Game Programmer?

AspectEntry Level Video Game DeveloperJunior Game Programmer
Required CredentialsDegree in Computer Science, Game Design, or related fieldDegree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentGame studios, tech companies, freelance projectsGame studios, tech companies, internship programs
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in gaming industry for entry rolesOften used interchangeably, focusing on coding tasks

Entry Level Video Game Developers and Junior Game Programmers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Entry Level Video Game Developer' emphasizes a broader role involving design and development, while 'Junior Game Programmer' focuses more specifically on coding tasks. Both roles serve as starting points in the gaming industry, with overlapping skills and responsibilities.

What is an entry level video game developer?

An entry level video game developer is a professional who helps design, code, and test video games, usually as part of a larger development team. These developers often work on specific tasks such as programming game features, fixing bugs, or creating basic game assets under the supervision of more experienced developers. Entry level positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to the industry, providing hands-on experience with game development tools, engines, and workflows. Over time, entry level developers can advance to more specialized or senior roles as they gain experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Video Game Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Video Game Developer, you need a solid grasp of programming languages (such as C++, C#, or Python), basic software engineering principles, and a relevant degree or portfolio of game projects. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems like Git, and possibly certifications in game development are commonly expected. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in collaborative, fast-paced development environments. These skills are crucial to efficiently creating engaging games, meeting project deadlines, and contributing effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

What is the 80 20 rule in game development?

In game development, the 80/20 rule suggests that roughly 80% of the game's value comes from 20% of its features or content. Entry level developers often focus on core mechanics and essential assets first, optimizing their workflow to deliver a playable experience efficiently.

What are the most common challenges faced by entry level video game developers when joining a new project team?

Entry level video game developers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the team's workflow, learning proprietary tools or engines, and understanding the existing codebase. Collaborating effectively with designers, artists, and senior developers can also be a learning curve, as clear communication is essential for integrating features and gameplay elements. Over time, new developers gain confidence by asking questions, actively participating in team meetings, and taking on small tasks that gradually build their skills and familiarity with the project.

Will AI replace game devs?

As an entry-level video game developer, AI is a tool that can assist with tasks like procedural content generation and testing, but it is unlikely to fully replace human developers. Creativity, problem-solving, and understanding player experience remain essential skills that AI cannot replicate entirely. Developers who learn to work alongside AI tools can enhance productivity and focus on more complex aspects of game design.

How to get a job in game development with no experience?

Entry level video game developers can start by building a portfolio with personal projects, participating in game jams, and learning programming languages like C# or C++ commonly used in game engines such as Unity or Unreal. Gaining familiarity with tools, creating a demo reel, and pursuing online courses or certifications can also improve chances of entry-level employment without prior professional experience.

Is C++ or C++ better for games?

For entry level video game developers, C++ is widely used in game development due to its performance and control over hardware resources, making it suitable for high-performance games. C++ is often paired with game engines like Unreal Engine, which require knowledge of the language, while learning C++ fundamentals can also help in understanding other programming languages used in game development. Both are important skills for aspiring developers to learn, especially for roles involving engine programming or performance optimization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Developer jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Video Game Developer jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Entry Level Video Game Developer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Entry Level Video Game Developer job openings:
Entry Level Video Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Video Game Developer job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,970 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Coding Instructor

Coding Instructor

Code Ninjas

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$11.50 - $15.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Who are we?
Code Ninjas is the nation's fastest-growing kids coding franchise. In our center, kids ages 7-14 learn to code in a fun, non-intimidating way - by playing and building video games they love. Kids have a blast and can't wait to come back. Parents are thrilled as their children gain confidence and new skills including coding, math, logic, and problem-solving, as they progress from white to black belt. Our core promise is, Kids have fun, parents see results. We believe in these words so much that it's written on the walls in our center.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for a Coding Instructor to join our team of dynamic, energetic, forward-thinking minds, working toward our common goal: providing a fun and safe learning environment for children. Our Senseis are the lifeblood of our Code Ninjas center. This individual oversees the day-to-day coaching and student engagement. Are you experienced in working with children? Do you enjoy teaching and building problem-solving skills in young engineering minds? Have you mentored youth? This could be the role for you.
Responsibilities include:
  • Training - go through the curriculum and learn it
  • Create a positive and safe environment in which students can grow
  • Work with children to determine skill sets
  • Provide feedback to parents after working with a student who is on a tour
  • Follow opening/closing duties daily
  • Clean dojo throughout the day to ensure cleanliness is kept up to corporate standards
  • Report weekly to Center Assistant Manager on progress
  • Report daily to Center Manager with respect to day's activities and productivity in dojo

Qualifications:
  • Working history with children ages 7 and up (mentoring, coaching, tutoring etc.)
  • Experience working with the general public
  • Experience in teaching, mentoring or child care
  • Works well with others; collaborates
  • Knowledgeable about coding and technology; or able to quickly pick up basic concepts
  • Must be fun to work with and like working in fast-paced environments where requirements can change frequently

Compensation: $0.16 per hour
ABOUT US
Code Ninjas® is the world's largest and fastest-growing kids coding franchise, with hundreds of locations in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Founded in 2016, our company is headquartered in Houston, TX. At our centers, kids learn to code while building their own video games. Kids have fun, parents see results®.
Code Ninjas is creating the problem solvers of tomorrow. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to unlock their full potential. Educating our youth in coding provides them with the problem-solving skills and self-esteem to pursue their dreams.
This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this franchisee should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to Code Ninjas Corporate.

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