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Game Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wand

Senior Backend Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$150K - $250K/yr

Wand makes gaming magical. Through game customization and guidance, we build tools that helps ... You'll partner closely with our Head of Engineering and the application teams who build on top of ...

Lnw

Senior Advanced Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$150K - $172K/yr

Gaming: Welcome to the world of land-based gaming. At Light & Wonder, it's all about the games, and ... Job Summary As a Senior Advanced Software Engineer at Light & Wonder, you will be a key contributor ...

GN Group

Lead Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140 - $180/hr

SteelSeries is the original esports brand at the intersection of gaming and culture, celebrating ... As a Lead Software Engineer, you will be responsible for working closely with our hardware and ...

New

Progressive Gaming

Data Engineer II

Chicago, IL

$117K - $141K/yr

... and unforgettable gaming experiences -powered by worldclass content , strong technical and ... About the Role We are seeking a Data Engineer II to join our Global Data Platform & Engineering ...

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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 7, 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.

Adjunct Faculty in Information Technology

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Computing (SoC) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Programming, Health Informatics, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Systems, Information Technology, Intelligent Systems Engineering, Network Engineering and Security, and Software Engineering. Find out more about SoC at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Computing.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Application Instructions
The program in Information Technology (IT) offers diverse courses in web development covering a variety of frameworks at both the front end and the server side. We seek instructors with professional experience and technical breadth, who can teach web development concepts that apply to a range of frameworks.
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).

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