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Game Engine Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Simplex Trading

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

... engine design * Design, build, and maintain efficient, reusable, and reliable C++ code on Linux ... In-person happy hours, celebrations throughout the year, game nights, video game fun, and so much ...

Coinflow

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Founded in 2023, the company serves marketplaces, fintechs, remittance providers, gaming platforms ... engine. This is a high-impact role where your code ships to production quickly and handles real ...

Dubclub

Staff Software Engineer (Full-Stack)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

For cappers: DubClub is a business-building engine that helps you turn your passion into a ... Cappers are the stars of the game, and enjoy a best-in-class operating system, automated marketing ...

Dubclub

Senior Software Engineer (Full-Stack)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

For cappers: DubClub is a business-building engine that helps you turn your passion into a ... Cappers are the stars of the game, and enjoy a best-in-class operating system, automated marketing ...

Nvidia

Senior System Software Engineer

Champaign, IL

$122K - $161K/yr

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... Apache Spark is the most popular data processing engine in data centers. At NVIDIA, we are ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

What We Are Looking For - Strong experience with simulators, robotics simulation, game engines, or ... with Unreal Engine or related simulation environments The expected base salary range for this ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

... simulation, game engines, or scene-generation systems - Experience working with map formats ... with Unreal Engine or related simulation environments The expected base salary range for this ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$130K - $140K/yr

What We Are Looking For - Strong experience with simulators, robotics simulation, game engines, or ... with Unreal Engine or related simulation environments The expected base salary range for this ...

seoClarity

Content Creator (Chicago-based)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

... SEO, AI, and digital marketing communities. We're not looking for someone to simply create content ... Community & Tenant Experience: tenant programming, shared amenity spaces, and unique building ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGame Engine Developer JobsGame Engine Developer Jobs in Illinois

Game Engine Developer information

See Illinois salary details

$31.5K

$105.1K

$174.4K

How much do game engine developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for game engine developer in Illinois is $105,111.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $120,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game engine developer?

A Game Engine Developer is a software engineer who designs, develops, and maintains the core technology used to build video games, known as a game engine. They create systems for rendering graphics, handling physics, processing audio, and managing assets, enabling game designers and artists to build interactive worlds. Game Engine Developers work closely with other developers to ensure the engine is efficient, scalable, and supports the features needed for modern games. Their work is crucial for both building new engines and customizing existing ones like Unity or Unreal Engine.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game engine developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Engine Developer, you need strong proficiency in computer science fundamentals, C++ programming, and experience with rendering, physics, or audio systems, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with development tools like Visual Studio, version control systems (e.g., Git), and graphics APIs such as DirectX or OpenGL is typically required. Problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and addressing technical challenges. These skills ensure robust, high-performance engine development that meets the complex needs of modern game production.

What are some common challenges faced by game engine developers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Game Engine Developers often work closely with artists, designers, and gameplay programmers, which can present challenges in balancing technical constraints with creative vision. Coordinating feature requests, optimizing for performance, and ensuring tools are user-friendly for non-programmers require strong communication and problem-solving skills. It's important to translate technical limitations into understandable terms and to build solutions that address the needs of different stakeholders. Successful developers proactively seek feedback and iterate on tools to support a smooth production pipeline.

What is the difference between Game Engine Developer vs Game Programmer?

AspectGame Engine DeveloperGame Programmer
Primary FocusDeveloping and optimizing game engines and toolsWriting gameplay code and implementing features
Skills & CertificationsProficiency in C++, graphics APIs, engine architectureStrong programming skills, knowledge of game frameworks
Work EnvironmentEngine development teams, software companiesGame development teams, studios

Game Engine Developers focus on creating and maintaining the core technology that powers games, while Game Programmers work on implementing gameplay features within those engines. Both roles require strong programming skills, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Are game engine developers in demand?

Game engine developers are in high demand due to the growth of the gaming industry and the need for skilled programmers proficient in tools like C++, C#, and Unreal or Unity engines. Companies seek developers who can optimize performance, create new features, and support cross-platform development, making this a competitive and evolving field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Engine Developer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Game Engine Developer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Game Engine Developer jobs in Illinois?

For Game Engine Developer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Game Engine Developer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Engine Developer jobs in Illinois are:

Game Engine Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Engine Developer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,111 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Software Engineer

Simplex Trading

Chicago, IL • On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Our employees are our greatest asset. We have spent years building a team of talented, dedicated technologists, data-driven traders, and expert leaders with an emphasis on our core pillars:People, Process, Trading Edge, and Technology. Simplex is an in-office organization, helping to foster a collaborative and communicative culture.
Career Description
Simplex is looking for smart, curious, and driven individuals to join our technology team. Technology at Simplex is the core of the business. We are a technology company, specializing in high speed trading. We are looking for great people to work on all aspects of our trading system.
What will you be doing?
  • Work on our system from trading algorithm development, to high speed data analysis, and intelligent execution engine design
  • Design, build, and maintain efficient, reusable, and reliable C++ code on Linux
  • Other opportunities as assigned

Skills and Experience:
  • 4+ years experience working with a high level language (ex C++, Java, C#)
  • Some C++ experience is a plus
  • Linux/Unix exposure
  • Previous financial industry experience is a plus
  • Computer science or engineering degree or real world experience

Annual base salary ranges from $125,000 to $200,000, and is influenced by a number of factors, including qualifications and experience. This role is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, of which can be a significant portion of total compensation. This full time role is also eligible for other forms of compensation and benefits including health/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k) contributions.
Software Engineer pay range
$125,000-$200,000 USD
Why us?
Founded in Chicago in 2004, Simplex is a leading, technology-driven, proprietary market-making firm. We work with the most advanced technology and software in the market, and we've continued to remain at the forefront of the industry by always focusing on innovation, automation, and data-driven analysis. We also leverage our experience and expertise to make strategic investments and capitalize on opportunities in the venture capital markets with promising, early-stage financial and technology start-ups.
PLUS, the goods!
  • Benefits: Excellent a la carte Medical/Dental/Vision (free employee coverage!), 401(k) match, generous parental leave!
  • The Office: The kitchen is stocked with snacks, and beverages; you also have daily stipends for breakfast and lunch!
  • Tuition Reimbursement: As an investment in our employees' careers and the company's future, we offer educational assistance to provide employees with professional development opportunities that increase their skills and enhance their contributions to the organization!
  • Employee Discounts: To gyms, national brands, and more!
  • Building: We are located in the Federal Reserve building. As a tenant, you have access to a building gym and a full cafeteria. We are easily accessible to all public transportation.
  • Charity Match: We match up to $2,000 a year in donations to the charities of your choice!
  • Fun Events: In-person happy hours, celebrations throughout the year, game nights, video game fun, and so much more!

Simplex is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Simplex and its recruitment partners may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support certain aspects of the recruiting and hiring process. Final hiring decisions are made by humans. For all job postings, Simplex may use AI to review and analyze applications, resumes, interviews, and applicant responses. Simplex complies with applicable federal and state laws governing AI use. Applicants may still request reasonable accommodations. For more information related to AI or to request an accommodation, please contact HR@simplextrading.com.

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