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Junior Game Development Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

tms

Software Engineer Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Rising Junior, Senior, or Recent Graduate * GPA: 3.0 or higher * Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related field * Solutions-oriented with ...

tms

Software Engineer Intern

Chicago, IL

$20/hr

Rising Junior, Senior, or Recent Graduate * GPA: 3.0 or higher * Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related field * Solutions-oriented with ...

New

Aplaro Ltd

Junior Trading Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

... development tools that allow our trading strategies to run worldwide 24/7. As a Junior Trading ... At HRT we're friends and colleagues - whether we are sharing a meal, playing the latest board game ...

Troon

Social Player Development Associate

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$30K - $100K/yr

Lead adult and junior classes, clinics, and player development programs * Plan and execute junior ... Passion for growing the game of golf and delivering exceptional customer experiences * Comfortable ...

Troon

Social Player Development Associate

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$30K - $100K/yr

Lead adult and junior classes, clinics, and player development programs * Plan and execute junior ... Passion for growing the game of golf and delivering exceptional customer experiences * Comfortable ...

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Junior Game Development information

What is a junior game developer?

Junior Game Developers are entry-level professionals who assist in creating and programming video games. They typically work under the guidance of more experienced developers, contributing to tasks such as coding, debugging, and implementing game features. These roles often require foundational knowledge of programming languages like C# or C++, as well as familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine. Junior Game Developers also collaborate with artists, designers, and testers to help bring game concepts to life and ensure a smooth gameplay experience. It's a great starting point for building a career in the gaming industry.

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

To thrive as a Junior Game Developer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as C++ or C#), basic game design principles, and a relevant degree or portfolio demonstrating your abilities. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems (e.g., Git), and possibly certifications in these tools are commonly expected. Creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure you can contribute meaningfully to game projects, work collaboratively with other developers, and adapt to the fast-evolving demands of the gaming industry.

What are common challenges faced by junior game developers when transitioning from school projects to professional game development teams?

Junior game developers often find that moving from academic or personal projects to a professional studio environment requires adapting to collaborative workflows, strict deadlines, and established coding standards. In a team setting, communication and code integration become critical, and juniors may need to quickly familiarize themselves with proprietary tools or engines. Additionally, balancing creativity with project constraints is essential, as professional development often involves prioritizing tasks and iterating based on feedback. Embracing feedback and learning from more experienced colleagues can help juniors navigate these challenges and grow in the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Development jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Game Development jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Game Development jobs in Illinois?

For Junior Game Development jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Game Development jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Game Development jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Junior Game Development jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Junior Game Development job openings:

Junior Game Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Game Development job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Advanced Software Engineer

LNW Gaming, Inc.(KAC)

Chicago, IL • On-site

$150 - $172/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Position Summary

As a Senior Advanced Software Engineer at Light & Wonder, you will be a key contributor within a collaborative, global engineering team focused on delivering robust, innovative technology solutions to support both internal systems and customer-facing products. You will drive innovation and quality in slot game development through expert-level software engineering.

Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, test, and maintain slot game software.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and implement features.
  • Ensure software quality through code reviews, testing, and compliance with platform standards.
  • Provide technical guidance and support to junior engineers.
  • Document software designs and processes.
  • Stay current with industry trends and technologies.
  • Lead technical initiatives and mentor junior engineers.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of development processes.
  • Any other duties assigned.
Qualifications
  • 10+ years of professional software development experience.
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field.
  • Experience in the gaming industry preferred.
  • Expert in C++ and/or C#.
  • Knowledge of Godot and other game engines.
  • Exposure to Windows and Linux platforms and video drivers.
  • Strong understanding of game development frameworks.
  • Proficient with debugging and profiling tools.
  • Excellent problem‑solving and communication skills.
  • Ability to lead and mentor team members.
Compensation

Targeted pay range: $150,000 – $172,000. Total compensation may include applicable incentive compensation such as an annual performance bonus. Actual compensation packages are based on factors unique to each candidate, including skill set, depth of experience, work geography, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Benefits

Eligible for company-sponsored benefits, including healthcare, dental, vision, paid time off, a generous 401(k) plan, tuition assistance, and additional benefits.

Location & Work Arrangement

This is a hybrid role based in our Chicago studio. Team members are expected to be in the office 4 days a week to support collaboration and studio culture.

Physical Requirements

The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, use hands, operate a computer, and have specific vision abilities for close and distance vision, and to adjust focus while using computer and business equipment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Light & Wonder is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

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