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Junior Game Developer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

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Junior Java Developer

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

- Junior Java Developer W2/ Full Time Hiring - Jr. Java Developer (0-5 Years Experience) We are ... We have helped so far hundreds of businesses in the software, gaming, hospitality, energy ...

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junior .NET developer

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Junior .NET Developer Job Summary We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Junior .NET Developer ... We have helped so far hundreds of businesses in the software, gaming, hospitality, energy ...

Hudson River Trading (HRT) is seeking a Junior Trading Systems Engineer to join our growing Trading ... At HRT we're friends and colleagues - whether we are sharing a meal, playing the latest board game ...

Senior iOS Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$152K/yr

This is not a junior position - you must have significant real-world experience working autonomously in an iOS engineering team * A love for gaming, however you define it. * An interest in product ...

Senior iOS Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$152K/yr

This is not a junior position - you must have significant real-world experience working autonomously in an iOS engineering team * A love for gaming, however you define it. * An interest in product ...

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Junior Game Developer information

See New York salary details

$26.3K

$97.3K

$150.4K

How much do junior game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior game developer in New York is $97,342.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,300.00 and $95,200.00 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 New York?

The most popular types of Game Developer jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Junior Game Developer jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Junior Game Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Game Developer job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,342 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Junior Gameplay Programmer (Unreal Engine)

etc. interactive

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

We are seeking a driven and collaborative Junior Gameplay Programmer to help build the core mechanics of our upcoming extraction shooter. Working closely with our senior engineers, you will prototype, implement, and refine gameplay features ranging from character movement and weapon handling to inventory management and UI integration. This is an incredible opportunity to grow your skills in Unreal Engine while having a direct impact heading into alpha testing.

Responsibilities
  • Implement and iterate on core gameplay mechanics using Unreal Engine C++ and Blueprints
  • Assist in the development of weapon systems, player controllers, and interactive environment elements
  • Collaborate with designers to rapidly prototype new features and tune existing gameplay loops
  • Help integrate backend services and player engagement analytics into the game client
  • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code, participating in regular code reviews
  • Identify and resolve bugs, optimizing game performance for a smooth multiplayer experience
Qualifications
  • 0–3 years of experience in game programming (can include academic projects, modding, or indie development)
  • Solid understanding of object-oriented programming principles
  • Hands-on experience with Unreal Engine (UE4 or UE5), including both C++ and Blueprints (Preferred)
  • A strong passion for the extraction shooter genre and competitive multiplayer games
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to learn new systems quicklyStrong communication skills and the ability to thrive in a highly collaborative, fast-paced startup studio
Location

This is a hybrid role based out of our New York City studio. Candidates must be located in, or willing to relocate to, the NYC metro area.

The expected base salary range for this position is $85,000 to $115,000 per year (+ Equity). The actual compensation offered will be determined in good faith based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skills.

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