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Junior Game Developer Jobs in Lexington, AL (NOW HIRING)

Junior Game Developer information

See Lexington, AL salary details

$21.6K

$80.2K

$124K

How much do junior game developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior game developer in Lexington, AL is $80,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,400.00 and $78,400.00 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 cities near Lexington, AL are hiring for Junior Game Developer jobs?

Cities near Lexington, AL with the most Junior Game Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Game Developer job openings in Lexington, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,212 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Assistant/Associate Professor of Computer Science (Tenure-Track)

Athens, AL • On-site

Athens State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Department/College
College of Arts & Sciences
Position Title
Assistant/Associate Professor of Computer Science (Tenure-Track)
Job Category
Faculty
Posting Number
00540
FLSA
Exempt
Full or Part Time
Full-Time
Other
Temporary
No
If Temporary, number of months
Position Summary Information
Duties
In addition to the adhering to the general faculty guidelines, as specified by the Employee Handbook, the Dean of the Colleges, and the Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs, duties include:
DUTIES:
  • Teaching a variety of upper-division (junior/senior) and graduate courses in support of programs in Computer Science, Information Technology, and Cybersecurity,
  • Developing and delivering courses in a variety of modes, including traditional, blended, and online courses that ensure quality and effective assessment,
  • Working with a range of students in Computer Science, Information Technology, and Cybersecurity to assist them in achieving academic and career success,
  • Engaging in professional development and/or scholarship appropriate for a teaching institution to maintain currency in disciplinary field(s),
  • Holding office hours and advising students,
  • Serving on committees and accreditation efforts,
  • Contributing to the University's mission in terms of undergraduate teaching, research, creative activities, etc., and
  • Assuming any other professional duties and responsibilities as assigned by administrative personnel.

Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • An earned Ph.D. or ABD with degree conferred by start of hire in Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Information Technology or related area of Computing from a regionally accredited institution,
  • Strong foundation in core Computer Science concepts, including but not limited to programming and the capability to teach multiple courses that utilize different programming languages.
  • Desired areas of expertise include artificial intelligence and machine learning, simulation, gaming, and virtual/augmented reality.

Salary Schedule
Salary Band: AS230/AO230
To view salary schedules, visit: www.athens.edu/human-resources/salary-schedule-tables/
Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Posting Detail Information
University Information
Located in historic Athens, Alabama, Athens State University offers junior and senior-level coursework to community college graduates and transfer students holding sufficient credits from other institutions. Approximately 3,000 students each semester have selected Athens State because of its neighborly environment where over 50 majors and degree programs are offered, with courses taught by a supportive and exceptional faculty. Approximately 95% of the students are enrolled in at least one online course. The typical student is a working adult who commutes. Recently, the University was named the Most Affordable College in Alabama by The Best Schools, as well as a 2024 Great College to Work For by ModernThink. Athens State offers undergraduate degree programs in Liberal Arts, Teacher Preparation, and Business. The University employs more than 392 full and part-time employees with approximately 88 full-time faculty members in three colleges: College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, and College of Education. 83% of the full-time faculty members hold a terminal degree. Athens State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Athens, Alabama is located in North Alabama equidistant between Nashville, TN and Birmingham, AL. Athens is home to several events and festivals that have been featured as the Southeast Tourism Society's "Top 20 Events in the Southeast" including the Athens Storytelling Festival and the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention.
EEO Statement
Non-Discrimination Policy Statement Athens State University, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. Athens State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, sexual orientation, disability, religion, genetic information, or veteran status in employment, or admissions to or participation in educational programs and activities. Inquiries or concerns may be addressed to the Office of the Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Services, 300 N. Beaty St., Athens, AL 35611, 256- 233-8175.
Background Check Statement
In accordance with Athens State University Policy and guidelines, the applicant chosen for employment will be required to sign a consent form for a criminal background check. Employment will be contingent upon the receipt of a clearance notification from that criminal background check.
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Unofficial transcripts should be from the college or university which verifies qualifications for the position.
Note: Credential evaluations are needed for all transcripts obtained outside the U.S. before uploading and submitting an application. (Credential evaluators should provide course-by-course evaluations and transcribed in English.)
Upon an offer of employment, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be submitted. Continued employment is contingent upon receipt of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
Additional Information
Athens State University participates in the E-verify System to verify employment eligibility for all newly-hired employees.
To apply, please visit https://jobs.athens.edu/
Review of applications will begin as soon as possible and will remain open until filled.
For assistance, contact the Human Resources Office at 256-216-3333 or email us at employment@athens.edu.