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Junior Game Programming Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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

Head of Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$220K - $275K/yr

Founded in 2023, the company serves marketplaces, fintechs, remittance providers, gaming platforms ... Mentor every engineer on the team, from senior to junior, leveling people up rather than just ...

Head of Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$220 - $275/hr

Founded in 2023, the company serves marketplaces, fintechs, remittance providers, gaming platforms ... Mentor every engineer on the team, from senior to junior, leveling people up rather than just ...

Head of Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$220 - $275/hr

Founded in 2023, the company serves marketplaces, fintechs, remittance providers, gaming platforms ... Mentor every engineer on the team, from senior to junior, leveling people up rather than just ...

Kids Instructor

Skokie, IL · On-site

$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

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 Instructor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$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

Showing results 21-40

Junior Game Programming information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$7

$27

$48

How much do junior game programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior game programming in Chicago, IL is $27.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior game programmer?

A Junior Game Programmer is an entry-level developer who assists in creating and maintaining the code that makes video games run. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced programmers, contributing to tasks such as gameplay mechanics, bug fixes, and tool development. Junior Game Programmers often use languages like C++ or C#, and collaborate closely with designers, artists, and other team members to bring game features to life. This role is ideal for those new to the game industry and looking to gain hands-on experience.

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

To thrive as a Junior Game Programmer, you need a solid grasp of programming fundamentals, mathematics, and computer science concepts, usually supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with game development engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems like Git, and knowledge of languages such as C# or C++ are commonly required. Creativity, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for building efficient, engaging games and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by junior game programmers when working on a development team?

Junior game programmers often encounter challenges such as adapting to large, complex codebases and learning to work within established development pipelines. They may also find it demanding to balance feature requests with debugging and optimization tasks, all while meeting project deadlines. Collaboration is key, as junior programmers frequently interact with artists, designers, and senior developers to implement gameplay features and resolve technical issues. Proactively seeking feedback and being open to learning from teammates can help overcome these initial hurdles and lead to professional growth.

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

AspectJunior Game ProgrammingGame Programmer
Required CredentialsTypically a relevant degree or coursework, some experienceSame as Junior, but often with more professional experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based game development projectsMore complex projects, possibly leading small teams
Employer & Industry UsageIndie studios, AAA companies, mobile game developersSame as Junior, but with higher expectations for skill and responsibility

Junior Game Programming roles are designed for entry-level developers with foundational skills, working under supervision. Game Programmers typically have more experience, handling complex coding tasks independently. The main difference lies in experience level and project complexity, with Junior roles serving as stepping stones to full Game Programmer positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Programming jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Game Programming jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Junior Game Programming job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,759 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer Lead and Architect

Auria

Chicago, IL • On-site

$129 - $184/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, and implementation of training, education, and planning solutions to enhance Guardian readiness.

  • Gather requirements from stakeholders, translate them into user stories, and drive the development of software solutions.

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain software applications and components in a DevSecOps environment, ensuring security and reliability.


Job description

Position:Senior Software Engineer Lead and Architect

Location: Colorado Springs, CO

Remote Status: Hybrid

Job Id:13814-OTTI - Carly

# of Openings:1

Are you a highly skilled Senior Software Engineer Lead and Architect ready to help shape the future of Space Training and Readiness in support of the Space Force? Auria is searching for a dynamic technical leader to drive the evolution of our cutting-edge Battlespace Operational Readiness Game (BORG). You’ll be at the forefront of building advanced Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training environments, empowering Guardians to master tactics and maintain full-spectrum readiness in a high-stakes, realistic environment. This role is HYBRID in Colorado Springs, CO.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO
  • Contribute to Advancing USSF Full Spectrum Readiness: Lead small, cross-functional teams in the design, development, and implementation of impactful training, education, and planning solutions - ensuring alignment with STARCOM training goals to enhance Guardian readiness.
  • Translate Requirements into Mission-Ready Software: Act as a Product Owner, gathering critical requirements from stakeholders, including government end users, integrators, and other capability vendors. Translate these needs into actionable user stories and a prioritized product backlog, driving the development of software solutions that directly address real-world challenges and contribute to mission success.
  • Develop Secure and Reliable Software: Design, develop, test, and maintain software applications and components across a tiered DevSecOps environment, adhering to industry and DoD standards for software engineering and cybersecurity.
  • Collaborate Across the Training Environment: Work closely with diverse stakeholders, including domain subject matter experts, integrators, program managers, and other capability vendors, to ensure seamless integration and successful delivery of solutions that meet critical mission requirements.
  • Influence the Technical Direction of Critical Programs: Actively participate in technical discussions and architectural decisions, influencing direction and ensuring solutions that address complex distributed training challenges. Your exposure to mission operations on site will transform you into a domain expert that will help us drive future solutioning and product strategy.
  • Mentor and Develop Future Leaders: Provide strong technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning, professional growth, and technical excellence within your team.
  • Ensure Code Quality and Security: Conduct rigorous code reviews, provide insightful feedback, and enforce coding standards and industry best practices to ensure the reliability and integrity of the software developed for mission-critical applications.
  • Stay at the Forefront of Technology: Continuously explore emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices within your specialization and the DoD software landscape, applying that knowledge to drive innovation and continuously improve development processes.
  • Champion Agile Scrum Development: Continue Auria’s Agile excellence by coaching and ensuring the team adheres to Scrum principles and best practices.
WHAT THE TEAM REQUIRES
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field from an accredited university.
  • 12+ years of experience in software engineering, with a significant focus in one of:
    • Modeling & Simulation: Experience with M&S platforms, tools (e.g., STK, AFSIM), and methodologies, including their test and integration in software applications.
    • 3D Data Visualization: Expertise with 3D "whole earth" applications (Cesium, STK, ArcGIS, Unity) and data visualization techniques, including for geographic information systems (GIS), game, or simulation purposes.
    • Systems Integration & Test: Strong background in planning, performing, and testing diverse system integrations through public APIs (REST, ASP.NET) or C#/C++ assemblies/DLLs in a DevSecOps environment.
  • A minimum of 4 years of proven experience in a leadership role within an Agile Scrum environment, especially as a Scrum Master or Product Owner.
  • Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
  • A strong understanding of software development methodologies, design patterns, and best practices, including in DevSecOps environments.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with technical and non-technical stakeholders, including DoD personnel.
  • Experience with Agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban) and related project management tools (Jira).
  • A proven track record of successfully implementing complex software projects and meeting deadlines.
  • Domain-specific knowledge in one of:
    • Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) distributed training environments.
    • Space and Missile Defense, e.g., space operations, orbital warfare (OW), electronic warfare (EW), command and control (C2).
  • Experience working within the DoD.
  • Mission-Driven Professional: Collaborative contributor motivated by the opportunity to develop cutting-edge solutions that protect and serve both the nation and the world.
WHAT THE TEAM PREFERS
  • Master's degree or higher in a relevant field.
  • Experience with Amazon Web Services (AWS) or GovCloud.
  • Experience with Digital Engineering and using digital models and data to design, build, test, and operate complex systems.
  • Experience designing and developing interactive experiences using the Unity game engine
  • Experience in leveraging web APIs or WebSockets to facilitate client-server communication and data exchange.
  • Proficient in graphics arts using Photoshop, Illustrator, or other graphic design tools.
PAY TRANSPARENCY

The salary offered will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications - skills, education & experience - and the position level. $129,000 - $184,000

APPLICATION DEADLINE

September 30, 2026

THE AURIA TEAM

Auria is a provider of solutions and software in support of complex Space, National Security, and Cyber missions of federal, international, and commercial customers. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO our success is built on the excellence of diverse teams advancing innovative systems and operational software to strengthen our customers’ missions. With a distinguished track record and a spirit of relentless pursuit, and R&D, we set the pace for progress and execute every mission with the utmost precision.

Why You’ll Love Working at Auria

We believe our team does their best work when they are well-supported, financially secure, and have the freedom to balance life outside of the office.

Time for What Matters
  • Generous & Growing PTO: Start with a substantial paid time off package that increases every year you're with us.
  • True Flexibility: Contract permitting, use Flex Time to work in a way that fits your life, not just your 8-to-5.
  • 11 Paid Days Off: Enjoy 6 fixed company holidays plus 5 Floating Holidays to use whenever you choose.
Invested in Your Future
  • 401(k) Match - Yours to Keep Instantly: We match up to 4% of your contributions . B oth your contributions and the company match are yours from day one with no vesting wait-period.
  • Industry-Leading Education Support: Level up with up to $12,000 annually for tuition and certifications. We don't just hire talent; we grow it.
Health & Peace of Mind
  • Premium Healthcare, Lower Costs: High-quality medical plans paired with a Company-Sponsored HSA to help you save for the future.
  • Fully Covered Life Insurance: Breathe easy with life insurance up to $50K provided at zero cost to you.
  • Holistic Support: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial coaching, and more.

...and that's just the beginning!

Auria is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action-Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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