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Game Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

WesTech Engineering

Applications Engineer 2

Ames, IA · On-site

Summary WesTech is in search of an Applications Engineer 2 who will research, collect, and report ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

WesTech Engineering

Applications Engineer 2

Ames, IA · Hybrid

Summary WesTech is in search of an Applications Engineer 2 who will research, collect, and report ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Scientific Games

Senior Architect

Nevada, IA

Scientific Games: Scientific Games is the global leader in lottery games, sports betting and ... Ensure that we are true to the guidelines set in all aspects of engineering, testing and delivery

SciPlay

Vice President, Monetization

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

SciPlay is a leading developer and publisher of digital games on mobile and web platforms, providing highly entertaining free-to-play games that millions of people play every day for their ...

Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel

Project Manager

Tama, IA · On-site

$72K/yr

POSITION TITLE Project Manager DEPARTMENT Engineering REPORTS TO Assistant Director of Facilities ... Must be able to obtain a gaming license in accordance with the regulations established by the Sac ...

SciPlay

Director of Monetization

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

SciPlay is a leading developer and publisher of digital games on mobile and web platforms. The Director of Monetization is responsible for driving revenue growth and optimizing player experience ...

Wartburg College

Community Recreation

Waverly, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Oversee recreational programming for youth and adults as an instructor or official. Principal Job ... On game days, make sure the schedule is set. * Teach fundamentals and rules of a sport. * Make sure ...

SciPlay

Director of Monetization

Cedar Falls, IA

SciPlay is a leading developer and publisher of digital games on mobile and web platforms, providing highly entertaining free-to-play games that millions of people play every day for their ...

SciPlay

Director of Monetization

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

SciPlay is a leading developer and publisher of digital games on mobile and web platforms, providing highly entertaining free-to-play games that millions of people play every day for their ...

IMT Insurance

Senior Programmer Analyst

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$87K - $117K/yr

SENIOR PROGRAMMER ANALYST IMT Insurance is looking to hire an enthusiastic Sr. Programmer Analyst ... The IMT office was new in 2018 and offers a fitness room, game room and a variety of collaboration ...

IMT Insurance

Senior Programmer Analyst

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$87K - $117K/yr

SENIOR PROGRAMMER ANALYST IMT Insurance is looking to hire an enthusiastic Sr. Programmer Analyst ... The IMT office was new in 2018 and offers a fitness room, game room and a variety of collaboration ...

IMT Insurance

Senior Programmer Analyst

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$87K - $117K/yr

SENIOR PROGRAMMER ANALYST IMT Insurance is looking to hire an enthusiastic Sr. Programmer Analyst ... The IMT office was new in 2018 and offers a fitness room, game room and a variety of collaboration ...

Varsity Tutors

Computer Programming Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes logical thinking and systematic debugging skills and connects programming to web development, data science, game design, and automation applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Varsity Tutors

Computer Programming Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes logical thinking and systematic debugging skills and connects programming to web development, data science, game design, and automation applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

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All JobsGame Developer JobsGame Developer Jobs in Iowa

Game Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$101.9K

$169.1K

How much do game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for game developer in Iowa is $101,883.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,600.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 80 20 rule in game development?

In game development, the 80/20 rule suggests that approximately 80% of the game's value comes from 20% of the features or effort. Developers often focus on the most impactful features to optimize time and resources, ensuring a better player experience while managing scope and deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Developer, you need strong programming skills (often in C++, C#, or Java), a solid understanding of computer graphics, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems, and sometimes certifications in these platforms are commonly required. Creative problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These abilities are crucial for building engaging, technically robust games and collaborating successfully within multidisciplinary development teams.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Game developers create and design interactive entertainment, and while AI tools can assist with tasks like asset generation and coding, they are unlikely to fully replace human creativity, problem-solving, and storytelling skills essential to game development. AI can enhance productivity but requires human oversight and expertise to produce high-quality, engaging games.

What jobs can a game developer do?

A game developer can work in roles such as game programmer, game designer, level designer, graphics programmer, or technical artist. They often collaborate with artists, sound designers, and project managers, and may specialize in areas like mobile, console, or PC game development using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine.

What Are Game Developers?

As a game developer, you write the code for video game software. Your code, combined with the work of other developers, brings video games to life on computers and gaming consoles. Your responsibilities are to design core game features and to collaborate with a team of other developers, graphic designers, and artists. Your job duties include game testing, debugging, and production in all aspects of gaming—player character creation, non-player characters, backgrounds, and gameplay. Being a gamer yourself gives you a solid understanding of the importance of game mechanics and storytelling.

Is game developer in high demand?

Game developers are in high demand due to the growing gaming industry and increasing investment in mobile, console, and PC games. Skills in programming languages like C++ and Unity or Unreal Engine are highly valued, and job opportunities are expected to grow as the industry expands globally.

What are some common challenges game developers face when working on large team projects?

Game developers working on large team projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multiple disciplines (programming, art, design, audio), ensuring clear communication, and managing dependencies between different parts of the game. Balancing creative vision with technical constraints and deadlines can also be demanding. Adapting to shifting priorities and integrating feedback from playtesting are key aspects of the collaborative process, making strong teamwork and flexibility essential in this role.

What does a game developer do?

A game developer is responsible for designing, creating, and programming video games for computers, consoles, or mobile devices. Their work involves coding, testing, and debugging game software, as well as collaborating with artists, designers, and other team members to bring a game concept to life. Game developers may specialize in areas like gameplay programming, graphics, or artificial intelligence, and often use game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine to build their projects.

What is the difference between Game Developer vs Game Designer?

AspectGame DeveloperGame Designer
Primary RoleProgram and build game mechanics, code, and softwareDesign game concepts, storylines, and gameplay experiences
Skills & CertificationsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software developmentCreative design, storytelling, game design tools
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, coding environments, software studiosDesign teams, creative studios, collaborative spaces
Industry UsageUsed across game studios for technical implementationUsed for conceptualization and gameplay design

While both roles are essential in game development, Game Developers focus on coding and technical implementation, whereas Game Designers craft the gameplay experience and story. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and collaboration in the gaming industry.

More about Game Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Developer jobs in Iowa? For Game Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Developer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Game Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Game Developer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Game Developer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Game Developer jobs in IA? For Game Developer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Game Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Developer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,883 per year, or $49 per hour.
Applications Engineer 2

Applications Engineer 2

WesTech Engineering

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

WesTech Engineering rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 368 rated engineering

Job description

Our mission at WesTech is to help communities thrive by delivering high-quality water solutions with superior service - safely and sustainably. To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services and more.
As one of the leading operating brands of Swire Water, our values of integrity, humility, endeavor, excellence and continuity make this an outstanding working environment. Our continuing success creates attractive opportunities for purpose-driven professionals to develop new skills, support vital industries, and grow their careers.
Summary
WesTech is in search of an Applications Engineer 2 who will research, collect, and report information on the ability and capacity of water and wastewater treatment equipment. Assist in the design and development of equipment and systems, as well as the redesign of existing systems to fulfill the needs of the customer. This role performs a full range of Applications Engineer assignments and uses considerable independent judgment to interpret and apply work guidelines with considerable latitude to specific situations.
Some of the work you will do:
  • Specification review from contractors and engineers as well as developing specifications for equipment to be sent to the customer/fabricator
  • Document preparation, maintenance, and review including technical drawings and P&ID's
  • Budget and firm bid proposal review and preparation
  • Prepare cost estimates
  • Calculation and interpretation of basic project related calculations and responding to technical clarifications to the customer
  • Make continuous improvements with the job functions and processes
  • Collaborate with the Regional Sales Manager and Sales Agent to develop a sales strategy
  • Conducting technical sales presentations and meeting with customers
  • Communicate project details to Project Managers and Designers
  • Peer review of bids
  • Other duties as assigned/requested

Here are the skills that you need:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil, Mechanical, Environmental, Chemical Engineering or equivalent
  • Experience: Generally, 1-2 or more years of related experience
  • Ability to travel (approximately 10%)
  • Strong math skills
  • General understanding of chemistry and physics
  • Excellent computer skills
  • Detail oriented, well organized with strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Excellent problem-solving skills
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Self-motivated
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Ability to follow through on projects
  • Prior sales experience
  • Superior customer service
  • Work well in a team environment

Here are the skills and qualifications that will set you apart:
  • Master's Degree in Engineering
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Solid Works, or Pro-E

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to work at a desk to operate computer/phone system
  • Frequently required to sit, talk, hear, and see. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision
  • Regularly required to move around the facility
  • Some lifting may be involved (50-70 lbs), specifically when in the warehouse areas
  • Comply with all safety regulations

Benefits and perks we offer:
  • Competitive salary and performance-based annual bonuses
  • Dollar for dollar 401K match of 6%
  • Flexible work hours, hybrid schedules with remote work options
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package
  • Company HSA contribution, Paid Parental Leave, Employee Assistance Program
  • Company-paid Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Long-term Disability
  • PTO plan and Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

WesTech considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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