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Junior Game Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kids Team Member

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

They organize, instruct and implement safe, fun and entertaining activities and games for children ... Promotes all Junior programming to increase participation in all Kids & Aquatics programming

Kids Team Member

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

They organize, instruct and implement safe, fun and entertaining activities and games for children ... Promotes all Junior programming to increase participation in all Kids & Aquatics programming

Kids Team Member

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

They organize, instruct and implement safe, fun and entertaining activities and games for children ... Promotes all Junior programming to increase participation in all Kids & Aquatics programming

Kids Team Member

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

They organize, instruct and implement safe, fun and entertaining activities and games for children ... Promotes all Junior programming to increase participation in all Kids & Aquatics programming

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree * 0-1 years ...

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree * 0-1 years ...

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree * 0-1 years ...

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create ... Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree * 0-1 years ...

Technical Intern 3

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and ... junior year of a four year degree program in a Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering or ...

Junior Game Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$22.5K

$83.6K

$129.1K

How much do junior game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior game developer in Iowa is $83,572.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $81,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a junior game developer do?

A Junior Game Developer is responsible for assisting in the creation and development of video games. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced developers, helping with tasks such as coding, debugging, and testing game features. Their duties may also include collaborating with artists and designers, learning new programming tools, and implementing small components of a game. This role serves as an entry point into the gaming industry, allowing individuals to gain valuable experience and grow their skills.

What does a junior game developer do?

A junior game developer is another name for an entry-level game developer who assists experienced game developers with video game software design, creation, and testing. In this position, you learn your responsibilities and duties under the supervision of an expert game developer who teaches you the skills you need for the job. This includes tasks like coding games, designing graphics, developing a game for a specific gaming console or computer operating system, and testing the game for bugs. You also help create and optimize testing programs and processes to ensure that each game meets a company’s standards for its final products.

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

To thrive as a Junior Game Developer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages like C++ or C#, familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal, and a relevant degree or coursework in computer science or game development. Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and a basic grasp of 2D/3D asset integration are typically required. Creative problem-solving, teamwork, and a willingness to learn new technologies help set candidates apart in collaborative environments. These skills ensure efficient contribution to game projects, adaptability to evolving tools, and effective communication within development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by junior game developers when working on a team project?

Junior Game Developers often encounter challenges such as adapting to collaborative workflows, understanding version control systems (like Git), and communicating effectively with designers, artists, and senior developers. Navigating code reviews and integrating feedback can also be daunting at first, but these experiences are invaluable for skill development. Over time, learning to balance creativity with project deadlines and technical constraints becomes an essential part of growth in this role.

What is the difference between Junior Game Developer vs Game Programmer?

AspectJunior Game DeveloperGame Programmer
Required SkillsBasic programming, game design fundamentals, teamworkAdvanced programming, software development, coding expertise
Experience LevelEntry-level, internships, or 1-2 yearsTypically 2+ years, specialized coding experience
Work EnvironmentGame studios, indie developers, collaborative teamsDevelopment teams, technical departments in gaming companies
Common UsageAssisting in game development, learning coding practicesWriting game code, optimizing performance, debugging

While both roles involve programming in game development, a Junior Game Developer focuses on learning and supporting various aspects of game creation, whereas a Game Programmer specializes in coding, performance optimization, and technical implementation. The Junior Game Developer is ideal for those starting their careers, while the Game Programmer requires more advanced technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Game Developer jobs in Iowa?

For Junior Game Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Junior Game Developer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Junior Game Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Game Developer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,572 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Jr. Systems Developer-Gaming Systems

Accel Entertainment

Nevada, IA • On-site

$78 - $93/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Accel Entertainment rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 281 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

About UsAccel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: ACEL) is a growing provider of locals-focused gaming and one of the largest terminal operators in the United States, supporting more than 27,000 electronic gaming terminals in over 4,300 third-party local and regional establishments across ten states. Through exclusive long-term contracts, Accel serves licensed non-casino locations including bars, restaurants, convenience stores, truck stops, gaming cafes, and fraternal and veteran establishments. Accel also owns and operates brick and mortar casinos and a racino venue.Accel provides its local partners with a turnkey, full-service, capital-efficient gaming solution that encompasses manufacturing, content, payments, loyalty, 24/7 customer service, data analysis and reporting, and cash logistics. The Company’s racino, Fairmount Park Casino & Racing, opened in April 2025 and features over 270 electronic gaming machines, food and beverage amenities, a sports book, para-mutuel betting and 55 days of thoroughbred horse racing a year. For more information, please visit www.accelentertainment.com.Job Description:SUMMARYAccel Entertainment is seeking a Junior Systems Developer to build and maintain its gaming systems, including data interfaces, payment systems, controllers, user interfaces, and legacy applications. The Junior Systems Developer will work closely with business stakeholders and Accel engineers to implement new features and modernize existing systems. This role reports to the Senior Systems Developer. Preferred primary location: Las Vegas, NV. Preferred secondary location: Chicago, IL.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESSystems Development & ModernizationCollaborate with business stakeholders, infrastructure engineers, and quality assurance to design, build, test, and deploy gaming systemsUpgrade and enhance existing controllers, devices, user interfaces, and payment systemsBuild new thin-client user interfaces in C# and .NET to replace thick clientsReverse engineer legacy code and integrate functionality into modern C#-based servicesSystems Integration & DeliveryIntegrate gaming systems with accounting and marketing systemsCreate and manage GitHub repositories and set up and maintain CI/CD pipelines with GitHub ActionsProduction Support & DocumentationTroubleshoot and resolve production defectsCreate technical documentation and unit testsOther duties as assignedQUALIFICATIONSEducationBachelor’s degree required, preferably in marketing, communications, or a related fieldExperience2+ years of C#, JavaScript, and .NET development experience, with a focus on secure, reliable, scalable, auditable, and compliant solutionsTechnical SkillsExperience designing and building SQL databasesExperience building interfaces that use CSV and JSON file formats and REST API callsSkills & CompetenciesStrong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with business stakeholders and senior engineersStrong analytical and problem-solving skills for troubleshooting complex issuesOwnership and accountability to follow issues through from discovery to resolutionPreferred ExperienceAngularJS or React experienceExperience using tools such as Jira or Azure DevOps to manage technical workExperience setting up CI/CD processes in GitHubExperience in gaming, hospitality, or multi-state regulated industriesExperience working with infrastructure engineers and quality assurance teamsPHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENTTypical office environmentTravel may be requiredThe above is intended to describe the general content of, and requirements for, the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Base Pay Range:$78,000–$93,000/yrThis range represents the low and high end of the anticipated base salary range for this position. The base salary will depend on a number of factors such as: qualifications, experience level, and skillset.Voluntary full-time employment benefits include medical, dental, and vision; life, AD&D, critical illness, and hospital insurance; short and long-term disability; identity/legal protection; as well as access to FSA and HSA accounts. Full and part-time employees are eligible to contribute to traditional and/or Roth 401(k) plans. Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers counseling for a multitude of topics including (but not limited to) mental health, finances, adult care, disability, and grief.Accel Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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