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Game Engine Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Senior Unreal Animator

Mundelein, IL · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

... innovators and engineers from around the globe. The team is focused on creating immersive ... Minimum 5 years of professional experience in Animation, Games or Visual Effects * Experience ...

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 ...

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 ...

The ideal candidate is highly confident working in Unreal Engine, comfortable creating and modeling ... You will collaborate closely with creative, editorial, engineering, and production teams to design ...

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Showing results 1-20

Game Engine Programmer information

See Illinois salary details

$10.7K

$89.8K

$168.1K

How much do game engine programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for game engine programmer in Illinois is $89,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23,300.00 and $141,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Game Engine Programmer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Engine Programmer, you need strong skills in C++ or C#, computer graphics, mathematics, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard engines like Unreal or Unity, version control systems (e.g., Git), and sometimes specialized certifications in game development tools are highly beneficial. Effective problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical for building robust and efficient game engines that support creative teams and deliver high-quality gaming experiences.

What is a Game Engine Programmer job?

A Game Engine Programmer is responsible for developing and optimizing the core technology that powers video games. They work on rendering, physics, memory management, and other low-level systems to ensure the engine runs efficiently. Their job involves writing and maintaining engine code, debugging performance issues, and implementing new features to support game development. They often collaborate with other programmers, artists, and designers to ensure the engine meets the technical and creative needs of the project.

What are some typical challenges faced by Game Engine Programmers, and how can they be addressed?

Game Engine Programmers often encounter challenges like optimizing for performance across multiple platforms, integrating new features without breaking existing systems, and troubleshooting complex bugs that can impact gameplay. Addressing these challenges requires a mix of strong debugging skills, continuous learning of new technologies and industry standards, and effective collaboration with other developers and artists. Open communication and regular code reviews within the team help catch issues early and promote best practices. Additionally, staying updated with the latest optimization techniques and hardware advancements ensures that the engine remains competitive and efficient. Embracing a problem-solving mindset and being proactive in seeking feedback are key to managing the ever-evolving technical landscape of game development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Engine Programmer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Game Engine Programmer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Engine Programmer jobs in Illinois? For Game Engine Programmer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Engine Programmer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Game Engine Programmer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Game Engine Programmer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Game Engine Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Game Engine Programmer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,766 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Computer Graphics Software Developer Intern

Computer Graphics Software Developer Intern

Brunswick Corporation

Champaign, IL

$23 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Are you ready for what's next?

Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader (https://youtube.com/watch?v=ksuQ6B2j_mA) committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond. Brunswick believes "Next Never Rests," and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation.

Innovation is the heart of Brunswick. See how your contributions will help transform vision into reality:

Position Overview :?

Brunswick's BI-DesignLab (BIDL), a member of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Research Park is seeking a Computer Graphics Software Development intern.

In this role, you will work on various inter-disciplinary projects to create immersive simulations, UI/UX testing, and XR experiences. Along with developing pipelines and executing these projects using Unreal Engine along with other 3D software, you will also create various tools for the computer graphics and design team. At Brunswick, we have passion for our work and a distinct ability to deliver.

At Brunswick, we have passion for our work and a distinct ability to deliver.?? ?

Essential Functions:

Due to the nature of the Lab, it is difficult to capture all the responsibilities and projects accurately. The following list is not exhaustive but alludes to the kinds of workflow that will be expected.

  • Use game engine tools and programming to simulate sensors, engines, and interfaces

  • Build?pipelines using game engine technology to generate?realistic boating environments/experiences for simulation & UI/UX testing

  • Help build?Python/C++?scripts?to?automate?simulation/visualization? processes.?

  • Maintain and prototype VR, AR, game, and web experiences for product releases.?

  • Build custom tools to assist the art and design team to improve the production process.

Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way.

Required Qualifications:??

  • To be considered for the internship, candidates must have permanent US Work authorization. We are unable to sponsor temporary work visas or accept CPT/OPT authorization for this role.

  • Current enrollment in a BS in a field related to Computer Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

  • Portfolio highlighting a variety of projects.

  • Experience working?with Python?and C++.?

  • Experience working with?a game engine.

  • Base level understanding of game development workflow and computer graphics.?

  • Passion to explore new techniques in computer graphics and gameplay programming.

Preferred Qualifications:?

  • Experience?scripting tools for real-time?engines.

  • Experience with other 3D development tools such as Blender, Maya, substance painter etc.

  • Knowledge of CG rendering techniques (Raytracing, Path-Tracing, etc.)?

  • Prior project experience building a game?or?VR/AR?experience.

  • Experience with Android Studio.

  • Capability and desire to work with the lab for 2-3 years as an intern (Freshman, Sophomore, or Junior year or equivalent time to graduation)

Working Conditions:

Learning Opportunities: Our internships are designed to provide hands-on experience in a professional setting. You will work alongside experienced professionals and get a chance to apply your academic knowledge to real-world tasks.

Project Work: The work environment is supportive, collaborative, and conducive to learning. Interns typically work on specific projects or tasks that contribute to the organization's goals. This may range from supporting larger projects to handling smaller, individual assignments.

Hours: During summer, interns are expected to work 40 hours in person at the lab each week. Interns must work at least 8 hours in person at the lab each week during the fall and spring terms. You may work up to 20 hours maximum.

Feedback and Performance Reviews: As an intern, you will receive feedback and performance reviews throughout your assignment. We value the importance for interns to understand their progress and areas for improvement.

Responsibility: Interns at BI Design Lab are expected to manage their own schedules, set goals, and seek feedback for their professional development.

The anticipated pay range for this position is $23.00 - $26.00 per hour. The actual hourly rate offered will depend on multiple factors including year in school, degree, job-related knowledge/skills, relevant experience, and business needs.

At Brunswick, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the salary range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the specifics of the candidate's qualifications and the business context.

Why Brunswick: ?

Whatever tomorrow brings, we'll be at the leading edge.? As the clear leader in the marine industry, we're committed to our values and supporting our exceptional people.? We offer valuable benefits including a competitive 401(k) plan with company match, health benefits, paid time off, a robust Wellness Program, and much more (https://www.brunswick.com/careers/culture-benefits/benefits) .?? In addition, we're proud of being recognized for making a splash with numerous awards (https://www.brunswick.com/careers) !?

Brunswick Corporation is a leader in the marine industry, and we're looking for people just like you to take part in the movement towards better boating for all. We rely on the thoughtful input of people from all backgrounds to create compelling, innovative products for our customers around the globe. As such, diversity, equity, and inclusion are priorities in the enduring culture of our company. As a world leader in emerging recreational products and technologies, when you join our team, you become part of some of the most innovative, forward-looking brands in the marine industry today. ??

Next is Now!

We value growth and development, recognizing that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.

Brunswick is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is key to innovation and inspiration and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hrsharedservices@brunswick.com for support.

For more information about EEO laws, - click here (https://www.eeoc.gov/employees-job-applicants)

Brunswick Corporation participates in E-Verify as part of our commitment to a lawful and transparent hiring process. For additional information click here: https://www.brunswick.com/e-verify .

Brunswick (https://www.brunswick.com/privacy-policy) and Workday (https://www.workday.com/en-us/service-privacy.html?&_rda=/company/service_privacy.php) Privacy Policies

Brunswick does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors. For help, please contact our support team at: hrsharedservices@brunswick.com or 866-278-6942.

All job offers will come to you via the candidate portal you create when applying through a posted position through https:///www.brunswick.com/careers . If you are ever unsure about what is being required of you during the application process or its source, please contact HR Shared Services at 866-278-6942 or HRSharedServices@brunswick.com .

#Brunswick Corporation