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Video Game Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Data Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Our client is seeking a Data Engineer to design, develop, and maintain the data infrastructure that ... Initial Video Interview (30-45 minutes) * Client Phone Interview (30 minutes) * Client On-site ...

New

Mainframe CICS Systems Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$46.50 - $59.75/hr

ETS provides capabilities for all stages of Morgan Stanley's software development lifecycle ... ETS also delivers all workplace technologies (desktop, mobile, voice, video, productivity, intranet ...

New

... of other software engineers.  Perform software development in all life-cycle phases, work ... video app development. Warm Regards, Rahul R3 Technology Inc., 324 Courtyard Drive, Suite A ...

Applicant will perform software development in all life-cycle phases, work closely with program ... Experience in Audio video app development  The following talents and characteristics are very ...

... and video automation systems, as well as business-side work stations. The candidate will be ... PC/Mac hardware/software support of on-site installing, servicing and repairing workstations

... engineering expertise, and proprietary software solutions. We believe that relationships are the most important part of our business. Whether it's mobility, broadband, video, commercial, residential ...

... engineering expertise, and proprietary software solutions. We believe that relationships are the most important part of our business. Whether it's mobility, broadband, video, commercial, residential ...

... engineering expertise, and proprietary software solutions. We believe that relationships are the most important part of our business. Whether it's mobility, broadband, video, commercial, residential ...

Showing results 21-40

Video Game Software Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$10.3K

$140.9K

$163K

How much do video game software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game software engineer in Iowa is $140,889.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a video game software engineer do?

As a video game software engineer, you program video games for a computer or console system. You collaborate with designers who create a concept and design the look and feel of the game, write code to create the characters and mechanics, and implement troubleshooting tools and processes to test for bugs before the game’s release. If necessary, you fix any issues in the code while sticking to project deadlines. You carry out your duties and responsibilities alongside a team of gaming designers, programmers, and project managers to help the project move smoothly from start to finish.

What does a video game software engineer do?

A Video Game Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the software that powers video games. They write code to implement game mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. These engineers collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and other team members to ensure the game runs smoothly and provides a great user experience. Their work often involves problem-solving, optimizing code for performance, and debugging issues throughout the game development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video game software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Video Game Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (typically in C++, C#, or Python), a solid grasp of computer science fundamentals, and a relevant degree such as computer science or software engineering. Experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems (e.g., Git), and possibly certifications in game development tools are highly beneficial. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills that help engineers adapt to rapidly changing design requirements and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Mastering these skills ensures efficient development cycles, high-quality gaming experiences, and successful teamwork in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges video game software engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Video Game Software Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, ensuring optimal performance across different platforms, and integrating new features without introducing bugs. Collaboration with designers, artists, and QA testers is essential, which requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Additionally, tight deadlines and evolving project requirements can add pressure, making effective time management and problem-solving abilities crucial for success in this role.

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

AspectVideo Game Software EngineerGame Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; programming skillsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related; programming and design skills
Work EnvironmentGame studios, tech companies, independent projectsGame studios, freelance, indie development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in industry; focuses on software developmentBroader term; includes design, storytelling, and programming

While both roles involve programming and work within the gaming industry, a Video Game Software Engineer primarily focuses on coding, system architecture, and technical implementation. A Game Developer often encompasses a broader scope, including game design, storytelling, and project management. The roles overlap significantly, but the engineer is more technically specialized in software development.

How much does a video game software engineer make?

A video game software engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and company size, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level engineers may earn less, while experienced developers with specialized skills or working at major studios can earn higher salaries and bonuses.

What are popular job titles related to Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Video Game Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,889 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Systems Administrator (DevOps)

Emergent Software

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

**This is a direct hire for one of our clients. This is a hybrid position with onsite requirements 2-3 days per week. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.**

Summary

Our client is seeking a Systems Administrator (DevOps) to help modernize infrastructure, automate critical administrative processes, and improve operational reliability across a primarily Windows-based environment. This is an opportunity to play a key role in transforming legacy systems, implementing automation, strengthening deployment practices, and driving infrastructure improvements that support business growth.

The ideal candidate combines deep Windows systems expertise with strong scripting and automation skills, a modern DevOps mindset, and a disciplined approach to production change management. This individual will work closely with infrastructure, systems administration, and support teams to identify opportunities for automation, reduce manual processes, and improve overall system consistency and reliability.

Responsibilities
  • Modernize and standardize infrastructure across a Windows-centric environment.

  • Design, implement, and maintain automation solutions for system administration and access management.

  • Improve Active Directory management, including automated group assignments and role-based access controls.

  • Develop and maintain PowerShell and shell scripts to streamline operational tasks and deployments.

  • Support CI/CD initiatives and deployment automation using TeamCity and related tools.

  • Enhance monitoring, alerting, and observability capabilities across infrastructure and applications.

  • Collaborate with systems administrators, help desk personnel, and engineering teams to improve operational efficiency.

  • Support Azure, Microsoft Defender, CrowdStrike, and other infrastructure technologies.

  • Administer and support virtualization platforms including Hyper‑V, VMware, or Proxmox.

  • Assist with Linux-based infrastructure supporting containerized workloads.

  • Help establish best practices around version control, change management, documentation, and deployment processes.

  • Participate in infrastructure planning, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and post‑mortem reviews.

  • Evaluate and implement solutions that improve reliability, scalability, and security while minimizing operational risk.

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in Systems Engineering, Infrastructure Engineering, DevOps, or a related role.

  • Strong experience supporting Windows Server environments.

  • Hands‑on experience with Active Directory administration and automation.

  • Advanced PowerShell scripting skills.

  • Experience automating infrastructure and operational processes.

  • Experience using Git or similar version control systems.

  • Understanding of infrastructure monitoring, system health management, and production support.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage production changes while minimizing business risk.

  • Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.

  • Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience with Microsoft Azure and Azure security tools.

  • Experience with Microsoft Defender and CrowdStrike.

  • Knowledge of Docker containers and Linux administration.

  • Experience with TeamCity or other CI/CD platforms.

  • Familiarity with Meraki networking equipment, including firewalls, switches, routers, and access points.

  • Experience with virtualization technologies such as Hyper‑V, VMware, or Proxmox.

  • Experience modernizing legacy infrastructure environments.

  • Understanding of infrastructure‑as‑code and automation best practices.

Our Vetting Process

At Emergent Staffing, we work hard to find the software engineers who are the right fit for our clients. Here are the steps of our vetting process for this position:

  1. Application (5 minutes)

  2. Online Assessment (60 minutes)

  3. Initial Video Interview (30-45 minutes)

  4. Client On‑site Interview (60 minutes)

  5. Job Offer!

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