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Game Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Game Design

Chicago, IL · On-site

Throughout the program, students collaborate on interdisciplinary teams with programmers, artists ... and games for change on established and experimental platforms. In addition to the required ...

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Computer Science

Chicago, IL · On-site

Advanced areas of instruction include systems, real time and game programming, data mining, databases, security, theory, and artificial intelligence. Considerations: Exceptions to standard rates may ...

Brodie Sports Group

Scorekeeper

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Track the live game score on both the scoreboard and the BallerTV live stream * Reset the shot clock accurately on all applicable plays (full 24-second and 14-second resets) * Record team fouls ...

Thermon

Programmer

Franklin Park, IL

Programmer Department: Engineering FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Job Type: Full-Time Reports To: Supervisor, Engineering (Electrical) Job Setting : In Office Location: Franklin Park, IL Who are we? In a ...

Thermon

Programmer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Programmer Department: Engineering FLSA Status: Exempt Job Type: Full-Time Reports To: Engineering Supervisor Job Setting : In Office Location: Franklin Park, IL Who are we? In a world where ...

Thermon

Programmer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Programmer Department: Engineering FLSA Status: Exempt Job Type: Full-Time Reports To: Engineering Supervisor Job Setting : In Office Location: Franklin Park, IL Who are we? In a world where ...

Thermon

Programmer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Programmer Department: Engineering FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Job Type: Full-Time Reports To: Supervisor, Engineering (Electrical) Job Setting : In Office Location: Franklin Park, IL Who are we? In a ...

Thermon

Programmer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Engineering SupervisorJob Setting: In OfficeLocation: Franklin Park, IL Who are we?In a world where performance is paramount and environments are unforgiving, Thermon stands as a global leader ...

Thermon

Programmer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Supervisor, Engineering (Electrical)Job Setting: In OfficeLocation: Franklin Park, IL Who are we?In a world where performance is paramount and environments are unforgiving, Thermon stands as a global ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGame Programmer JobsGame Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Game Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$95.4K

$178.7K

How much do game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for game programmer in Chicago, IL is $95,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,700.00 and $149,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for game programmers?

Game programmers are in demand due to the growth of the gaming industry, which continues to expand with advancements in technology such as virtual reality and mobile gaming. Skills in programming languages like C++ and Unity or Unreal Engine are highly valued, and employment opportunities are available in both large studios and indie development. The industry offers roles that often require a strong understanding of software development and game design principles.

Is a game programmer a good career?

A game programmer develops software for video games, often requiring skills in programming languages like C++ and knowledge of game engines such as Unity or Unreal. The field offers opportunities for creativity and technical growth, with job prospects influenced by industry demand and experience levels. It can be a rewarding career for those passionate about gaming and technology.

What is the difference between Game Programmer vs Game Designer?

AspectGame ProgrammerGame Designer
Primary RoleWriting code to develop game mechanics, features, and systemsCreating game concepts, storylines, and gameplay experiences
Required SkillsProgramming languages (C++, C#), software development, problem-solvingCreativity, storytelling, game mechanics design
Work EnvironmentTypically in a development team, coding in studios or remoteDesign studios, collaborative teams, often in creative settings
Common UsageUsed in technical development phasesUsed in conceptual and planning phases

While both roles are essential in game development, game programmers focus on coding and technical implementation, whereas game designers concentrate on creating engaging gameplay and story elements. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and collaboration in the industry.

What does a game programmer do?

Game programmers develop video game concepts into functioning programs. A career as a game programmer involves paying close attention to details, analyzing lines of code, and troubleshooting to find solutions. As a game programmer, you use coding languages, such as C++ and Java, to build an interactive gaming experience. There are different kinds of game programmers who have specialized skills to produce a specific purpose in the game, but they all work together to create the final product. For example, some game programmers focus on the 2D and 3D graphics for the game, while others generate user interfaces to make the game fun and easy to use.

What are some common challenges game programmers face when working on large-scale projects?

Game programmers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as optimizing performance for different hardware platforms, managing complex codebases, and ensuring smooth collaboration with designers and artists. Balancing feature implementation with bug fixing and meeting tight deadlines are also common hurdles. Effective communication with other departments and staying up-to-date with evolving game engines and development tools are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering a high-quality product.

What is a game programmer?

Game Programmers are software engineers who specialize in writing code for video games. They work closely with designers, artists, and other team members to turn game concepts into playable experiences by developing game mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. Game Programmers use programming languages such as C++, C#, or Python and may focus on specific areas like gameplay, graphics, physics, or networking. Their work ensures that games run smoothly and are engaging for players.

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

To thrive as a Game Programmer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C++ or C#, a solid understanding of computer science principles, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines (such as Unity or Unreal Engine), version control systems, and debugging tools is typically required. Creative problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate with designers and artists to bring game concepts to life. These skills ensure efficient development, smooth gameplay experiences, and successful project delivery within the dynamic gaming industry.
More about Game Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Game Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Game Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Game Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Game Programmer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Game Programmer job openings:
Game Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Programmer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,411 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Athletics Game Day Student Employee, #0555

Oakton College

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Overview:This employee will assist in game day operations. There are various duties involved depending on the sport and whether setup or official capacity related. These duties include: setup and teardown of events, operating scoreboards, livestream operations, stat compilation and assisting with game protocol. The hours vary based on the event schedule and include nights and weekends. Punctuality is required for this position.  Campus Location: Des Plaines  Number of Openings: 4-5 Length of Employment: 1 academic year in length with the opportunity for assignment renewal. Can a student do homework in this position? Rarely Hours Available: Varies based on assignment, 5-15 hours a week Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities (TDRs) and Learning OutcomesIn the left column, list the specific tasks for which the student employee will be responsible.In the right column, select the applicable learning outcome(s) that is (are) demonstrated by mastering said task, duty, and/or responsibility. · Event setup/teardownTW· Official table dutiesLD· Assisting with event LivestreamTC· Game official dutiesPF Candidate Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Other Abilities or KSOAs)Qualified candidates will have the following competencies and skills: Ability to perform some physical labor associated with athletic facility event setup including lifting up to 50 lbs in weight. Ability to stand, walk/jog for periods of time.Meet the enrollment requirement. (Enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours during the fall or spring semester in which they have a student employment work assignment. To be employed during the summer, a student must be enrolled in a summer course or must be able to show intent to register for at least six credit hours in the subsequent fall term. Courses changed to audit and Alliance for Lifelong Learning classes will not be considered for eligibility for student employment. Meet eligibility to work in the United States At time of hire, the student has a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 or first semester enrolled at Oakton Application Process:Complete an online application. Contact Mick Reuter (mreuter@oakton.edu) with questions.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro