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Game System Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Designer I

Ely, IA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Game changer. Pioneer. TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering ... Perform detailed design of overhead and/or underground electric distribution systems. This work ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Must be able to work at desk computer/phone system. * Some lifting may be involved, (50 lbs ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

New

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Must be able to work at desk computer/phone system. * Some lifting may be involved, (50 lbs ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

New

LSAT Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching logic game setup and notation systems, argument core identification, and ... Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a ...

LSAT Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching logic game setup and notation systems, argument core identification, and ... Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a ...

Senior Software Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA

$113K - $150K/yr

... back end systems Familiarity with Object Oriented Programming techniques and languages (in ... designing tables , keys, and indexes for maximum efficiency Social game development Unity 3D ...

Eng I - Elec

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$59K - $100K/yr

... designing, developing, and testing of industry-leading navigation products. In our Navigation ... Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and ...

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Game System Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$44.1K

$146.5K

How much do game system designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for game system designer in Iowa is $140,061.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $145,600.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game System Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game System Designer, you need strong analytical thinking, creativity, and a solid understanding of game mechanics, often supported by a background in game design, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with game engines (such as Unity or Unreal), prototyping tools, and scripting languages like C# or Lua is highly beneficial. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and iterate on complex systems. These skills ensure engaging, balanced, and technically feasible gameplay experiences that drive a game's success.

What is the difference between Game System Designer vs Game Level Designer?

AspectGame System DesignerGame Level Designer
Primary FocusDesigns core game mechanics, systems, and rulesCreates and designs individual game levels and environments
Required SkillsSystems thinking, programming knowledge, gameplay designLevel layout, environment art, storytelling through level design
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with programmers, designers, and artists on overall game systemsWorks closely with artists and narrative teams to craft engaging levels
Industry UsageCommon in game development studios focusing on gameplay mechanicsCommon in studios emphasizing level and environment design

While both roles are essential in game development, the Game System Designer focuses on creating the underlying mechanics that define gameplay, whereas the Game Level Designer concentrates on crafting the individual levels players explore. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and collaboration points within game development teams.

How does a Game System Designer typically collaborate with other departments during the game development process?

Game System Designers work closely with various teams such as artists, programmers, producers, and narrative designers to ensure that gameplay mechanics align with the overall vision of the game. They often participate in cross-functional meetings, provide detailed system documentation, and gather feedback from playtest sessions to refine systems. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as system designers must balance creative ideas with technical constraints and player experience. This role is highly collaborative, requiring frequent coordination to integrate new features, resolve design challenges, and maintain a cohesive game experience.

What are Game System Designers?

Game System Designers are professionals who create, balance, and refine the underlying rules and mechanics that govern how a video game operates. They focus on designing systems such as combat, progression, economy, and rewards to ensure an engaging and balanced player experience. By collaborating with other developers, they translate creative ideas into mathematical models and gameplay loops that keep players challenged and entertained. Their work is crucial to the overall feel and longevity of a game.
What are popular job titles related to Game System Designer jobs in Iowa? For Game System Designer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game System Designer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Game System Designer jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Game System Designer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,061 per year, or $67.3 per hour.
Distribution Designer I

Distribution Designer I

TRC Companies, Inc.

Ely, IA • On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


TRC Companies rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

About Us
Groundbreaker. Game changer. Pioneer.
TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining science with the latest technology to devise innovative solutions that stand the test of time. From pipelines to power plants, roadways to reservoirs, schoolyards to security solutions, clients look to TRC for breakthrough thinking backed by the innovative follow-through of an industry leader.
TRC's professionals work with a broad range of commercial, industrial and government clients and the communities they serve. We deliver breakthrough solutions that address local needs -- so our clients can better succeed in an ever-changing world.
Working at TRC means tackling interesting, meaningful projects. We pride ourselves on our collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial zeal and agile corporate structure. We recognize that the expertise of our staff is our strongest asset, so we generously reward employees for successful performance and invest in their careers through training and the development of new skills and certifications.
Overview
TRC is hiring a Distribution Designer and this position will be working within our Power Distribution Engineering team and a part of our growing Power Sector.
Responsibilities
  • Perform detailed design of overhead and/or underground electric distribution systems. This work includes the preparation of field notes, drawings, specifications, and design estimates. Possess an analytical competence to interact with variety of individuals including engineers and experienced distribution system designers.
  • Acquire a working knowledge of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), national engineering standards, utility constructions standards, and best industry engineering practices.
  • Acquire broad knowledge of engineering disciplines, including design and constructability as applied to construction methods and materials, and the economics involved
  • Maintains production and quality of projects, including field data, photographs, engineering analysis, reports, various departmental reports and databases; including file management of all documents and records as instructed by departmental guidelines
  • Preparation and modification of electrical and roadway drawings, specifications, calculations, charts & graphs, and construction drawing packages
  • Perform various field technical services for the operation, inspection, and maintenance of electrical distribution systems including system inventories and audits, joint use management and permitting, pad-mount inspections, ground-line pole inspections, metering and apparatus services, lighting audits, etc.
  • Perform field data collection utilizing laptop computer, tablet device, GPS, and other electronic devices to collect data for input into database software as necessary.
  • Develop a working knowledge telephone, cable, and other communication facilities.
  • Operate necessary equipment to take measurements on utility poles and mid-span facilities, perform pole inspections, inspect, and perform maintenance on pad-mount equipment, etc.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Present ideas effectively in formal and informal situations. Communicate well in writing and utilize proper ethics with email and telephone communications. Keep supervisor and coworkers informed.
  • Share complete and accurate information with others. Possess the ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing with all levels in the organization and with outside clients and agencies

Qualifications
Must have a high school diploma
Associate degree in electrical, civil or mechanical engineering or similar discipline (Preferred)
Experience
  • Entry level with an Associate's degree in Electrical, Civil or Mechanical Engineering
  • 1+ years Electric Utility or telecommunications field experience preferred
  • Familiarity with National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) preferred.
  • Knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office applications desired
  • AutoCAD or similar programs preferred
  • Proficient use of engineering software (Preferred)
  • No certifications required
  • Clear and Valid Driver's license is required
  • Must be 21 years of age or older

#LI-PP1
Benefits*: TRC offers a competitive benefit package consisting of:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
  • 401k package that includes both traditional and Roth IRA options and Company match.
  • Paid time off contingent upon full time or part time status and level of seniority (ranging from 15 to 25 days per year).
  • All full-time employees enjoy a minimum of 8 Paid Holidays per year.
  • TRC ensures that all employees, including those that work part-time, receive paid sick, family, and disability leave in accordance with the laws of their state of residence.

*These benefits are applicable to US employees depending on their employment status (full time, part time, or temporary). TRC offers jurisdiction specific benefit packages for International and Puerto Rico employees.
Compensation: In accordance with local law, the below salary range is applicable for the job and location associated with this requisition. Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, geographical location, and other compensable factors.
Other Compensation: Employee may be eligible for participation in the Company's annual Discretionary Bonus Program which is contingent on Company, Business Segment, and Individual performance against Key Performance Indicators which vary by year and employee.
Disclaimers
TRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
The complete job description and application are available on TRC's career site.
TRC accepts applications for this position on an ongoing, rolling basis and reserves the right to cancel this posting at any time.
Salary Range
USD $21.00 - USD $28.00 /Hr.

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