... projects, games, and plenty of opportunities to build confidence and friendships. As a Program ... Leading full-day programming during summer break * Helping plan and run educational and ...
... projects, games, and plenty of opportunities to build confidence and friendships. As a Program ... Leading full-day programming during summer break * Helping plan and run educational and ...
... projects, games, and plenty of opportunities to build confidence and friendships. As a Program ... Leading full-day programming during summer break * Helping plan and run educational and ...
... projects, games, and plenty of opportunities to build confidence and friendships. As a Program ... Leading full-day programming during summer break * Helping plan and run educational and ...
Digital Training Facility Manager [DTFM] - Des Moines, IA (CONUS ) - Digital Training Facility Ma...
Gaming for training, such as Virtual Battle Space 3. Available only at select DTFs The Digital ... engineering or related) * U.S. Citizenship Required - You must be a United States Citizen
Digital Training Facility Manager [DTFM] - Des Moines, IA (CONUS ) - Digital Training Facility Ma...
Gaming for training, such as Virtual Battle Space 3. Available only at select DTFs The Digital ... engineering or related) * U.S. Citizenship Required - You must be a United States Citizen
Video Game Developer information
See Iowa salary details
$11.74 - $12.64
2% of jobs
$12.64 - $13.55
4% of jobs
$13.55 - $14.45
6% of jobs
$14.45 - $15.35
7% of jobs
$15.89 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.35 - $16.26
8% of jobs
$16.26 - $17.16
12% of jobs
The median wage is $17.64 / hr.
$17.16 - $18.06
19% of jobs
$18.79 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.06 - $18.97
20% of jobs
$18.97 - $19.87
9% of jobs
$19.87 - $20.77
6% of jobs
$20.77 - $21.68
5% of jobs
$11
$17
$21
How much do video game developer jobs pay per hour?
As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game developer in Iowa is $17.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What Does a Video Game Developer Do?
A video game developer has several responsibilities, including creating efficient and clean code, producing gameplay feature and game idea prototypes, and helping to create the engine or base of games. You can choose to specialize in a specific platform, such as creating games for a console system, smartphones, or a computer system. Your duties may require you to develop game concepts, write code, work with sprints or Agile methodology, or assist with the game’s audio and design features. You may also collaborate with other video game creators to polish the game once you finish it.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Video Game Developer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Video Game Developer, you need strong programming skills (often in C++, C#, or Java), a solid understanding of game design principles, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine and version control systems like Git is essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for creating engaging, technically sound games that meet both artistic and functional requirements in a competitive industry.
What are some common challenges Video Game Developers face when working on large-scale projects?
Video Game Developers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with large, multidisciplinary teams, managing shifting project requirements, and adhering to tight deadlines. Communication and collaboration are essential, as developers must work closely with artists, designers, and quality assurance testers to ensure a cohesive final product. Balancing creative vision with technical limitations and resource constraints can also be demanding, but it provides valuable experience in problem-solving and adaptability.
What are Video Game Developers?
Video game developers are professionals who design, create, and program video games for computers, consoles, or mobile devices. They work as part of a team to develop the gameplay, graphics, user interface, and storylines that make up a video game. Developers can specialize in various areas such as game design, programming, art, animation, or sound. Their responsibilities often include coding, testing, debugging, and collaborating with other team members to ensure the game runs smoothly and meets creative vision. Video game developers may work for large studios or as independent creators.
What is the difference between Video Game Developer vs Game Designer?
| Aspect | Video Game Developer | Game Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Program and build the game, focusing on coding, mechanics, and technical implementation. | Design game concepts, storylines, characters, and gameplay mechanics. |
| Required Skills | Programming languages (C++, C#), software development, problem-solving. | Creativity, storytelling, game design principles, user experience. |
| Work Environment | Typically in development teams, working closely with artists and designers. | Often collaborates with developers, artists, and writers to shape game concepts. |
While both roles are essential in game development, Video Game Developers focus on coding and technical implementation, whereas Game Designers concentrate on creating the game's concept and gameplay experience. They work together to produce engaging and functional games.
More about Video Game Developer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Video Game Developer jobs in Iowa? For Video Game Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Developer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Video Game Developer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Video Game Developer job openings:
$15/hr
Part-time
Posted 4 days ago
Job description
Are you a kid-whisperer with a big heart, a quick mind, and a love for hands-on fun.
YSS is looking for an energetic, big-hearted Summer Kids Club Program Assistant (PT) to help create a safe, fun, and engaging space where kids (grades K–6) can learn, play, and just be kids. Our Kids Club program keeps the adventure going beyond the classroom with hands-on activities, creative projects, games, and plenty of opportunities to build confidence and friendships.
As a Program Assistant, you’ll be part mentor, part activity mastermind, and part calm-in-the-chaos superhero. You’ll lead and support daily programming, provide tutoring and enrichment activities, and create a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, included, and encouraged.
What you’ll be doing (besides being awesome):
- Supervising and engaging children in daily Kids Club activities
- Leading full-day programming during summer break
- Helping plan and run educational and recreational activities
- Coordinating with community partners to bring fresh experiences to the program
- Preparing and serving healthy meals and snacks
- Tracking participation, documenting progress, and completing incident reports as needed
- Building positive relationships with families, school staff, and community members
- Keeping the space clean, organized, and ready for fun
This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.
If you love high-fives, craft supplies, organized chaos, and helping kids grow into their best selves, this might just be your summer gig.
What We Bring to the Table...
We believe in your potential. We meet you where you are. And we're genuinely invested in where you're headed next. The work matters—but so do you.
Here's what you can expect at YSS:
- A supportive, mission-driven team that actually has your back
- Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative, fun work environment
- Wellness perks to keep you feeling your best
- Employee Assistance Program for life’s curveballs
- Flu shots to keep you healthy and unstoppable
- Mental health support whenever you need it
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility (yes, seriously!)
We take care of our team so you can take care of the kids, the community, and yourself—win-win.
We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a “Can Do” Spirit.
The Basics:
- You’re at least 16 years old.
- You’ve got a High School Diploma or equivalent.
- You’ve spent at least a year in the human services world.
- CPR/First Aid certification? You’ll snag it within your first three months.
Bonus Points If You:
- Have experience caring for or supervising kids.
- Can team up, coordinate, and collaborate like a pro.
- Think on your feet and solve problems with creativity and confidence.
The IDEAL Candidate:
- Loves working with kids (and really means it).
- Can talk to children in a way that actually clicks.
- Listens with heart and responds with compassion.
- Brings creativity, energy, and enthusiasm to everything you do.
- Can’t wait to show up to work every day—and make it a great day for kids, too.
Who You Are...
You’re energetic, compassionate, and love working with kids. You’re creative, a great listener, and bring enthusiasm and heart to everything you do—making every day fun, safe, and meaningful for the children in your care.
Who We Are...
We’re YSS - one of Iowa’s oldest & largest nonprofits dedicated to putting kids first. Our mission? To spark hope, create opportunities, and help young people thrive. With life-changing programs, an enthusiastic leadership team, and our brand-new 50-acre recovery campus, we’re growing fast and thinking big. Check us out at yss.org!
At YSS, we celebrate the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences that each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we’re dedicated to creating a respectful, inclusive, and empowering environment where everyone can grow and succeed. And we’re always working to do better together.
YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.
Heads Up! Don’t Miss Our Messages! - We communicate with applicants via email - straight from our Paycom system. So be sure to keep an eye on your inbox (and your spam/junk folder too). Got questions? Email yss@yss.org - we’re happy to help!
The YSS Hiring Process
- Apply - Fill out the online app at yss.org/ysscareers.
- Assessment - We’ll check out your skills and experience.
- Interview - Phone, video, or in-person - we’ll chat and get to know you.
- References - Send us three+ people who can sing your praises.
- Screening - Background and driving checks (plus license verification if needed).
- Offer - If it’s a match, you’ll get a formal offer through Paycom.
About YSS
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Individual, family and community social assistance
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Ames, IA, US
Year founded
1976