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Software Engineer Video Game Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Software Engineer pay range $125,000-$200,000 USD Why us? Founded in Chicago in 2004, Simplex is a ... In-person happy hours, celebrations throughout the year, game nights, video game fun, and so much ...

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Software Engineer Video Game Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$26

$39

How much do software engineer video game intern jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for software engineer video game intern in Chicago, IL is $26.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Engineer Video Game Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Video Game Intern, you generally need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as C++ or C#), computer science fundamentals, and coursework or experience related to game development. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems like Git, and possibly a portfolio of game projects or relevant coursework are typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and the capacity to collaborate and communicate effectively within a team help set candidates apart. These skills and qualities ensure the intern can contribute meaningfully to game development projects, adapt quickly to new technologies, and work productively within a collaborative studio environment.

What types of projects or tasks can a Software Engineer Video Game Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Software Engineer Video Game Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects, such as implementing gameplay features, debugging code, or assisting with tools development. Interns often work under the guidance of experienced engineers and collaborate closely with designers, artists, and QA testers to deliver functional game elements. You'll likely participate in code reviews, attend team meetings, and contribute to sprint planning, which offers valuable insight into the full game development lifecycle. This exposure helps you build both technical and teamwork skills essential for a successful career in game development.

What does a Software Engineer Video Game Intern do?

A Software Engineer Video Game Intern assists with the development and testing of video games under the supervision of experienced engineers. Their responsibilities may include writing and debugging code, collaborating with designers and artists, and helping to implement game features or mechanics. Interns often get hands-on experience with game engines, programming languages like C++ or C#, and tools used in the game development process. This role provides valuable exposure to the workflows and teamwork involved in creating video games.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Video Game Intern vs Software Engineer Video Game Developer?

AspectSoftware Engineer Video Game InternSoftware Engineer Video Game Developer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a relevant degree (e.g., Computer Science)Usually holds a degree in Computer Science or related field, with some experience
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, entry-level projects, supervised tasksFull-time employment, responsible for developing game features and systems
Industry UsageCommonly used during summer or academic internships in gaming companiesStandard role in game development teams, involved in ongoing projects

In summary, a Software Engineer Video Game Intern is an entry-level position aimed at gaining experience, while a Software Engineer Video Game Developer is a full-time professional responsible for creating and maintaining game software.

What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Video Game Intern jobs in Chicago, IL? For Software Engineer Video Game Intern jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Video Game Intern jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Video Game Intern jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Software Engineer Video Game Intern jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Software Engineer Video Game Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Video Game Intern job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,460 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Video Game Design Tutor

Video Game Design Tutor

Varsity Tutors

Des Plaines, IL • Remote

$40/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


Varsity Tutors rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 21 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

About the Job
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Video Game Design tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
  • Earn incrementally higher pay for each session with the same student, reaching up to $40/hour.
  • Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions you conduct and invoice.
  • Set your own hours and tutor as much as you'd like.
  • Tutor remotely using our purpose-built Live Learning Platform. No commuting required.
  • Get matched with students best-suited to your teaching style and expertise.
  • Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson generation, and engagement features, helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching.
  • We handle the logistics—you just invoice for your tutoring sessions, and we take care of payments.

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor
  • Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game design principles, game mechanics, level design, narrative design, user interface design, game engines including Unity and Unreal, basic programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game loop architecture, player psychology, balancing mechanics, and iterative design while preparing students for game development careers and interactive media programs.
  • Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching game concept development, engine-based implementation, and iterative design refinement. Guides students through designing game mechanics documents, building levels in game engines, programming player interactions, creating or integrating art assets, and conducting playtesting sessions. Emphasizes the iterative design process and connects game design to computer science, visual arts, storytelling, and user experience design disciplines.
  • Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with game design curricula and common challenges such as scope management for game projects, learning game engine interfaces, and balancing game mechanics. Adapts instruction using game engine tutorials, design document templates, and progressive project milestones to support students from aspiring designers exploring concepts through advanced developers building playable game prototypes and portfolio pieces.
  • Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs and styles.
  • Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style.
  • Ability to adapt to different learning styles and student needs.

Ways To Connect With Students
  • 1-on-1 Online Tutoring - Provide personalized instruction to individual students.
  • Instant Tutoring - Accept on-demand tutoring requests whenever you're available.

About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.

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