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Graduate Game Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The School of Computing (SoC) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Programming, Health ...

The School of Computing (SoC) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Programming, Health ...

The School of Computing (SoC) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Programming, Health ...

The School of Computing (SoC) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Programming, Health ...

Engineering Intern / Co-op

Chicago, IL · On-site

$35 - $55/hr

... game changer for exploring the underwater world. Because radio waves attenuate quickly underwater ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full-time, on-site commitment for ...

... game changer for exploring the underwater world. Because radio waves attenuate quickly underwater ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full-time, on-site commitment for ...

Engineering Intern / Co-op

Chicago, IL · On-site

$35 - $55/hr

... game changer for exploring the underwater world. Because radio waves attenuate quickly underwater ... Actively enrolled in an academic program, not a recent graduate * Full-time, on-site commitment for ...

Position Summary Teach private and group squash lessons and using department programming brand ... High School Graduate or equivalent * Excellent customer service skills, friendly, outgoing, and ...

Position Summary Teach private pickleball lessons and group programming. Coordinate pickleball ... HS Graduate or Equivalent Years of Experience: * 1-2 Years Licenses / Certifications ...

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Showing results 1-20

Graduate Game Developer information

See Illinois salary details

$31.5K

$105.1K

$174.4K

How much do graduate game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate game developer in Illinois is $105,111.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $120,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 80 20 rule in game development?

The 80/20 rule in game development suggests that approximately 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes, meaning a small portion of features or tasks often deliver the majority of value. For graduate game developers, focusing on core gameplay mechanics and essential features can maximize productivity and project impact while minimizing unnecessary work.

Is 30 too late to get into game development?

Graduate game developers can enter the industry at any age, as many employers value skills, portfolio work, and relevant experience over age. Learning programming languages like C++ or C# and gaining experience through personal projects or internships can help regardless of age, making 30 not too late to start a career in game development.

What is a Graduate Game Developer job?

A Graduate Game Developer is an entry-level role for recent graduates looking to start a career in game development. They typically work as part of a team, assisting in coding, designing, and testing video games. Responsibilities may include developing game mechanics, troubleshooting bugs, and collaborating with artists and designers. This role provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience using industry-standard tools and technologies. Employers usually seek candidates with a relevant degree and a strong portfolio showcasing their work.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Graduate Game Developer expect in their first role?

As a Graduate Game Developer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks, such as writing code for gameplay features, fixing bugs, assisting with prototyping, and collaborating with artists and designers to bring game concepts to life. You may also be involved in playtesting, optimizing performance, and learning about the full game development lifecycle. Entry-level developers typically work under the guidance of senior engineers and are encouraged to contribute fresh ideas while developing their technical and teamwork skills. This supportive structure helps new graduates quickly build experience in both technical and creative aspects of game production.

Will AI replace game devs?

As a graduate game developer, AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks like asset generation or testing, but it is unlikely to fully replace human developers. Creativity, problem-solving, and understanding player experience remain essential skills that AI cannot replicate entirely. Developers will continue to adapt by integrating AI tools into their workflows to enhance productivity and innovation.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Game Developer, you need a degree in computer science or a related field, solid programming skills (often in C++, C#, or Unity), and a foundational understanding of game design principles. Familiarity with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems such as Git, and relevant portfolio projects are highly valued by employers. Strong teamwork, effective communication, creativity, and a willingness to learn help new graduates stand out in collaborative development environments. These skills enable you to contribute effectively to project goals, adapt to evolving technologies, and work well within a dynamic and creative team.

What can I do with a game dev degree?

A game developer with a degree can work in roles such as game programmer, designer, or artist, contributing to the creation of video games across various platforms. They often use programming languages like C++ or C# and tools such as Unity or Unreal Engine. Graduates can also pursue careers in related fields like interactive media, simulation development, or virtual reality design.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Game Developer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Graduate Game Developer jobs in Illinois are:
Graduate Assistant: Intramural & Special Events

Graduate Assistant: Intramural & Special Events

North Park University

Chicago, IL

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

North Park University would like to announce that applications are now being accepted for the position of Intramural and Special Events Graduate Assistant. The assistantship is a part-time position that will begin in August 2026 and includes tuition remission, a partial meal plan, and a $3000 stipend per semester.

About North Park
Founded in 1891, North Park University is a Christian university affiliated with the Evangelical Covenant Church of over 3,200 students from around the country and the world. Located for over 125 years on the land of the Miami and Potawatomi tribes in what is today Chicago's northside, NPU has recently been designated a Hispanic Serving Institution and is committed to serving diverse populations. Elevating North Park University's core distinctives of Christian, city-centered, and intercultural, NPU values diversity among its faculty and is committed to building a racially and culturally diverse intellectual community, and strongly encourages the nomination and candidacies of persons who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color regardless of gender.

North Park University is located in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago, one of the most ethnically diverse zip codes in the United States. It is nine miles from downtown Chicago. The North Park campus has often been referred to as an oasis in the heart of the city - a place where students from urban, rural, and suburban backgrounds alike can call home. And all of this within the major metropolitan backdrop of Chicago: one of the world's largest and most diversified economies, renowned for its museums and music, and voted best large city in the U.S. for four years in a row by Conde Nast Traveler.

Mission

The mission of North Park University is to prepare students for lives of significance and service through education in the liberal arts, professional studies, and theology.

Vision

Building on our core institutional identity-Christian, city-centered, intercultural-our vision is to create a university of uncommon character and enduring excellence, where faith, learning, and service meet.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist with supervising the daily operation of the 68,000 square foot Helwig Recreation facility.
  • Assist director with coordinating and managing intramural sports.
  • Organize and hold training sessions for officials working with intramural sports.
  • Organize and hold meetings for the captains on intramural sports.
  • Assist the director in integrating bridge events with other areas of campus and student life.
  • Assist director with planning tournaments and game night offerings throughout the school year.
  • Grow Esports programing through tournaments and special events.
  • Develop and conduct non-traditional recreation activities to bring new students into the facility.
  • Assist in the hiring, training, evaluation, and on-the-job training of desk attendants, floor staff, and climbing wall attendants, and IM officials.
  • Develop and coordinate weight room and fitness center orientations including instruction on strength cardio equipment and safety issues for all members.
  • Ensure equipment is in good working condition and report issues to the Director of Wellness and Recreation.
  • Assist in the general maintenance and cleaning of the facility and its equipment.
  • Gather verbal and written feedback from students, faculty, and staff to evaluate the recreation center and respond to inquiries and complaints of center participants.
  • Develop new offerings for Intramural programming and special events.
  • Effectively market intramural and special events across campus to students, staff, and faculty.
  • Other duties as assigned by Director of Wellness and Recreation, Associate of Athletic Directors and Assistant Vice President for Athletics and Sports Management.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Health and Physical Education, Exercise Science, Athletic Training, or related field is required.
  • Applicants must obtain acceptance in a North Park University graduate program.
  • Applicants must be able to work an untraditional work schedule (i.e., frequent nights and weekends).
  • Relevant experience in athletic, intramural, or special event programming.
  • Excellent interpersonal and oral skills.
  • Able to work independently and in teams.
  • Ability to handle details accurately.
  • Strong customer service orientation.
  • Computer literacy in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and databases needed.
  • Adult CPR/AED with standard First Aid Certification is required upon start of position.
  • Possess a clear understanding and personal commitment to North Park's mission of Christian higher education.