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Game Developer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Ability to read and understand engineering detail drawings * Excellent communication and customer ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other sources such as part catalogs to find ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Ability to read and understand engineering detail drawings * Excellent communication and customer ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Oversee the Engineering and Design of the equipment. * Prepare job review materials. * Prepare ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Oversee the Engineering and Design of the equipment. * Prepare job review materials. * Prepare ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Project Manager 1

Ames, IA · On-site

$60 - $85/hr

Oversee the Engineering and Design of the equipment. * Prepare job review materials. * Prepare ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Oversee the Engineering and Design of the equipment. * Prepare job review materials. * Prepare ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

C++ Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain dynamic memory allocation, virtual functions, operator overloading, and smart pointers while preparing students for systems programming, game development, and computer science ...

Deep knowledge of computational thinking, programming fundamentals in Python or Java, data types ... Emphasizes building computational thinking skills and connects computer science to robotics, game ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

Description: Senior Traffic Engineer (Senior PE) McClure is currently searching for a skilled Senior Traffic Engineer to help live our mission of Making Lives Better through our growing ...

Showing results 21-40

Game Developer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$31.8K

$106.1K

$176.1K

How much do game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for game developer in Ames, IA is $106,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $121,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game developer?

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.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game developer?

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.

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 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.

Is a game developer a good career?

A game developer creates video games and typically requires skills in programming, design, and software tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. The field offers opportunities for creativity and growth, but it can also involve long hours and competitive job markets. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those passionate about gaming and technology.

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 cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Game Developer jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Game Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Game Developer job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,105 per year, or $51 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


WesTech Engineering rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 452 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 has an immediate opening for a Field Service Technician who will visit various job sites within the United States and internationally to perform install, maintenance, and training activities.

Candidates for this position may be required to pass pre-employment and periodic screenings, including background checks, drug and alcohol tests, or other necessary assessments.

Some of the work that you will do:

  • Startup of equipment, mechanical trouble shooting of problems and training of plant personnel.
  • Visits clients with Agent, Regional Sales Manager, or Account Manager to understand current needs.
  • Conduct shop inspections, installation of structural steel components at jobsite, erection and start-up supervision and assistance.
  • Provide warranty repair and problem resolution.

Here are the skills that you need:

  • High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
  • Valid driver's license and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record
  • Ability to complete domestic or international travel, including weekends and holidays, up to 80% of the time (90% of travel domestic, 10% of travel international)
  • One or more years of experience completing mechanical or electrical repairs
  • Ability to pass a criminal background, medical, or other related screenings as required by specific client locations
  • Knowledge of or experience with steel fabrication, welding and inspection
  • Ability to resolve basic electric/motor/VFD trouble shooting
  • Ability to read and understand engineering detail drawings
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Excellent grammar, writing and proofreading skills
  • Organizational and time management skills

Here are the skills that will set you apart:

  • Two year or higher degree or certification in in a mechanical trade program, programming or engineering
  • Three or more years of experience completing mechanical or electrical repairs.
  • Ability to resolve basic electric/motor/VFD trouble shooting
  • Ability to read and understand engineering detail drawings
  • Knowledge of or experience detailing mechanical equipment similar in nature to WesTech equipment

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to work at desk computer/phone system
  • Some lifting may be involved (up to 50 lbs.), specifically when in the warehouse area(s)
  • When at job sites will be required to inspect equipment. This may involve:
    • Bending/stooping/walking on ladders, walkways, catwalks, (may involve heights).
    • Exposure to elements; cold, heat, wet, and/or dark. May be in a safety harness.
    • When in fabrication shop, may involve utilizing hands in and around mechanical parts.
  • Comply with all safety regulations.
  • May be required to be clean-shaven for proper usage of respiratory equipment.

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.


What WesTech Engineering employees say

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