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Game System Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Chess Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain opening systems, middlegame planning, and endgame theory while preparing ... Skilled at teaching tactical pattern recognition, strategic planning, and game analysis. Guides ...

... designed to support our team members' financial, physical, and mental well-being. Specific benefits ... Will enter purchase requisitions into current system * Route paperwork i.e. invoices, transfers ...

Chess Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain opening systems, middlegame planning, and endgame theory while preparing ... Skilled at teaching tactical pattern recognition, strategic planning, and game analysis. Guides ...

Front Desk Clerk

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

... designed to support our team members' financial, physical, and mental well-being. Specific benefits ... Accurately enters all reservations into the computer system according to department policy and ...

Front Desk Clerk

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

... designed to support our team members' financial, physical, and mental well-being. Specific benefits ... Accurately enters all reservations into the computer system according to department policy and ...

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation ... Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation ... Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a ...

From ScooterPals ® Fur-Wheelers and claw machines to photo capture, arcade games, and smart ... Our benefits are designed to support your health, financial security, and overall well-being -- so ...

Showing results 41-60

Game System Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$44.1K

$146.5K

How much do game system designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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 is a game system designer?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a game system designer?

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.

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 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 do you become a game system designer?

To become a game system designer, typically a candidate needs a background in game design, computer science, or related fields, along with strong skills in programming, mathematics, and understanding of game mechanics. Gaining experience through internships, personal projects, or portfolio work is important, and proficiency with design tools like Unity or Unreal Engine can be beneficial.

Is game system designer a good career?

A game system designer develops the rules, mechanics, and systems for video games, often requiring skills in programming, mathematics, and game theory. The field offers opportunities in the gaming industry, but job availability can be competitive and typically requires a strong portfolio and relevant experience.

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 3% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 67% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,061 per year, or $67.3 per hour.

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

WE'RE CHANGING ENTERTAINMENT. COME JOIN US.
We're always looking for talent that believes in having fun. At PENN Entertainment, you'll get to be a part of an exciting industry, where the days and nights are fast paced. You'll work with an incredibly diverse set of coworkers driven by their enthusiasm for helping people find and have more fun. You'll also get to work at a company that cares about your career growth and will help you get the support you need to expand your possibilities.
Initial placement within the salary range is based on an individual's relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our competitive Total Rewards package, which includes wellness programs designed to support our team members' financial, physical, and mental well-being. Specific benefits-such as day-one medical coverage, 401(k) matching, and annual performance bonus-may vary by position. Paid time off is earned according to the local policy and increases with the length of employment.
Click HERE to discover how we empower team members to grow, thrive, and advance in their careers.
WE LOVE OUR WORK.
  • Ensure all products delivered and received meet specifications and pre-established standards.
  • Examine incoming shipments and reject damaged items and record shortages.
  • Responsible for promptly storing, rotating, issuing and delivering all received and inventoried goods both at the onsite and offsite warehouse.
  • Will enter purchase requisitions into current system
  • Route paperwork i.e. invoices, transfers, requisitions, adjustment documents to proper department.

BRING US YOUR BEST.
  • Warehouse experience preferred
  • Strong problem solving skills
  • Strong time management skills
  • Ability to work at a fast pace with a sense of urgency
  • Must have a valid driver's license and meet driver eligibility requirements

STAY IN THE GAME. FOLLOW US.
We've grown to become the leading provider of integrated entertainment, sports content, and casino gaming experiences thanks to our 43 destinations across North America, online sports betting and iCasino via theScore Bet Sportsbook and Casino®.
Being an industry leader means more than being a purveyor of fun. We are also committed to values like diversity and sustainability - for our community, our team members, our vendors, and our planet.
We're changing entertainment. Follow us.
Equal Opportunity Employer
STARTING SALARY
starting at $16 per hour