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Junior Game Design Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree * 0-1 years ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree * 0-1 years ... Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

Eng Sr Prin - Sys

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Architecture & Design: Contribute to the architectural design of real-time embedded GPS receivers ... Serve as a technical mentor to junior and mid-level engineers, promoting best practices in systems ...

Eng Sr - Quality

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$87K - $117K/yr

... design changes and development artifacts. * Collaborate with junior engineers to mentor and guide ... Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and ...

Junior Game Design information

See Iowa salary details

$29.1K

$53.3K

$80.8K

How much do junior game design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior game design in Iowa is $53,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior game designer?

Junior Game Designers are entry-level professionals in the gaming industry who assist in creating and developing the concepts, mechanics, and rules of video games. They work closely with senior designers, programmers, and artists to help turn ideas into playable experiences. Their tasks often include creating design documents, prototyping gameplay features, and playtesting. This role is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in game development and build foundational skills in game design.

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

To thrive as a Junior Game Designer, you generally need a strong understanding of game mechanics, creative problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree or coursework in game design or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, basic scripting, and proficiency in design software such as Photoshop are typically expected. Collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills that help integrate feedback and work efficiently within a development team. These skills ensure the creation of engaging gameplay experiences and support smooth project workflows in a competitive industry.

How does a junior game designer typically collaborate with other departments during the development process?

As a Junior Game Designer, you’ll regularly collaborate with artists, programmers, and writers to ensure your game concepts are effectively implemented. This means attending cross-functional meetings, providing clear documentation of your designs, and giving feedback during playtesting. Open communication and flexibility are essential, as you may need to adjust your ideas based on technical constraints or creative input from other teams. These interactions provide valuable learning experiences and help you understand the broader development pipeline.

What is the difference between Junior Game Design vs Game Designer?

AspectJunior Game DesignGame Designer
Required CredentialsDegree in game design, computer science, or related field; portfolioSimilar credentials, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team collaboration, under supervisionMore autonomous, leadership roles possible
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in game studios for entry rolesUsed for experienced roles, but overlaps with senior positions
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking to start in game designPeople seeking to advance or understand the role

Junior Game Design roles are entry-level positions requiring foundational skills and education, often working under supervision. Game Designers typically have more experience, greater responsibilities, and may lead projects. The main difference lies in experience level and scope of responsibilities, with Junior Game Design serving as a stepping stone toward becoming a full Game Designer.

What job categories do people searching Junior Game Design jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Game Design jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Junior Game Design job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,254 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Student Drafter

WesTech Engineering

Ames, IA • On-site, Remote

$22 - $29.50/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


WesTech Engineering rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Our mission at WesTech is to help communities thrive by delivering high-quality water solutions with superior service – safely and sustainably. To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services and more.

As one of the leading operating brands of Swire Water, our values of integrity, humility, endeavor, excellence and continuity make this an outstanding working environment. Our continuing success creates attractive opportunities for purpose-driven professionals to develop new skills, support vital industries, and grow their careers.

Summary

WesTech is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Student Drafter to join our engineering team. This position is ideal for someone with a passion for design and engineering who is eager to contribute to our diverse projects. The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create detailed drawings and models that meet project specifications and industry standards.

Some of the work you will do: 

  • Develop and prepare detailed CAD drawings from sketches, specifications, and verbal instructions
  • Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software 
  • Assist in the design and layout of water treatment equipment and systems
  • Collaborate with engineers and project managers to ensure designs are accurate and meet project requirements
  • Revise drawings and models based on feedback from mentors, engineers, and clients
  • Assist other designers in maintaining organized records of all drawings and project documentation
  • Participate in project meetings and contribute to the development of design solutions
  • Assist with ensuring designs comply with company standards, industry codes, and safety regulations.
  • Monitor progress to keep projects on schedule and report any potential delays

Here are the skills that you need: 

  • Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree
  • 0-1 years of experience in CAD design (internships or co-op experience considered)
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of common CAD applications (AutoCAD or Solidworks)
  • Understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with drafting terminology
  • Knowledge of nomenclature and conventional symbols of structural, mechanical, and engineering drawings
  • Knowledge of trigonometry, geometry, and general mathematics used in CAD work
  • Detail, accuracy, and outcome-oriented
  • Excellent verbal and written communications including the ability to prepare drawing from a variety of written and verbal instructions
  • Team player who collaborates well with internal and external customers

Here are the skills and qualifications that will set you apart: 

  • Associate's Degree or equivalent work experience
  • Recommendations from faculty in CAD program attesting to good work ethic and potential CAD skill expertise
  • Two or more years of related experience outside of education
  • Familiarity with CAD model management
  • CAD library management
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of AutoCAD, and Inventor, AND CREO

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to work at desk computer/phone system.
  • Some lifting may be involved, (50 lbs.), specifically when in the warehouse area(s).
  • May be required to be clean-shaved for proper respiratory equipment.

Benefits and perks we offer:

  • Competitive salary and performance-based annual bonuses
  • Flexible work hours, hybrid schedules with remote work options
  • PTO plan and Paid Holidays
  • Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

WesTech considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.


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