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Video Game Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Bridge Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Proficiency in MathCAD, STAAD Pro, LPILE, LEAP Bridge software, MDX, Bentley/MicroStation products ... A Great Place To Work Learn more about Stanley Consultants in this short video: Working at Stanley ...

Coding Test + Video Looking for strong senior backend Scala developer preferably with AWS Cloud ... Working within an agile team, develop scalable backend software, using TDD. Develop Scala/Java ...

Eng Sr - Mech

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$88K - $149K/yr

We're now seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our Hardware Engineering Team at our newly ... Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and ...

Eng Sr - Mech

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$88K - $149K/yr

We're now seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our Hardware Engineering Team at our newly ... Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and ...

A/V Technician

Iowa City, IA

$21.50 - $25.50/hr

Reports to Technology MANAGER OF AUDIO VIDEO ENGINEERING Department Technology Essential Duties ... Automation - Design, test, and create AUDIO VIDEO software CONFIGURATIONS related to or running on ...

Client Solution Architects (CSA) is currently seeking a Network Engineer to support our program at ... software defined network (SDN), voice, video, data, collaboration, and Cloud components.

A/V Technician

Burlington, IA · On-site

$21.50 - $25.50/hr

Reports to Technology MANAGER OF AUDIO VIDEO ENGINEERING Department Technology Essential Duties ... Automation - Design, test, and create AUDIO VIDEO software CONFIGURATIONS related to or running on ...

Description Client Solution Architects (CSA) is currently seeking a Network Engineer to support our ... software defined network (SDN), voice, video, data, collaboration, and Cloud components.

A/V Technician

Davenport, IA

$21.50 - $25.50/hr

Reports to Technology MANAGER OF AUDIO VIDEO ENGINEERING Department Technology Essential Duties ... Automation - Design, test, and create AUDIO VIDEO software CONFIGURATIONS related to or running on ...

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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 Jul 15, 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 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 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Video game software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially those in senior or lead roles at major companies, or with significant experience and specialized skills such as graphics programming or AI development. High earnings often involve bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing in addition to base salary.

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 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.

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.

Can a software engineer work on video games?

A software engineer can work on video games by developing game engines, gameplay features, or tools using programming languages like C++ or C#. They often collaborate with designers and artists and may need knowledge of graphics APIs, game development frameworks, and debugging tools. Many game studios seek engineers with experience in real-time systems and performance optimization.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Video game software engineers design and develop games using programming languages and tools, and AI can assist in automating certain tasks like testing or asset generation. However, creative problem-solving, storytelling, and complex decision-making remain human-driven aspects of game development that AI cannot fully replace.

How much does a video game software engineer make?

The average salary for a video game software engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level engineers may earn less, while experienced developers with specialized skills or working on popular titles can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.
Infographic showing various Video Game Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% 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.
Senior Bridge Engineer

Senior Bridge Engineer

Stanley Consultants

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Stanley Consultants is an award-winning and industry-leading global consulting engineering firm, with an unmatched commitment to culture, values, and ethics. We are dedicated to client experience and solve the most complex challenges to create a sustainable, connected, and enriched world for all. As the world changes, Stanley strategically evolves with it, integrating the latest technology, innovation, and resiliency practices.
With over a century of experience serving the energy, federal government, transportation, and water sectors, we have helped improve lives and shape the infrastructure systems that connect us. As an employee-owned organization with a People First approach, we stand apart from other engineering consulting and services firms. At Stanley, your voice counts, your growth matters, and your success is our success.
Stanley Consultants offers flexible work options, competitive pay and great benefits, a strong sense of community, and the chance to build a meaningful, long-term career!
Job Title - Senior Bridge Engineer
Location - Des Moines, IA
Job Type - Hybrid
Requisition ID - SENIO005935
Stanley Consultants is currently seeking a Senior Bridge Engineer for our Des Moines, IA office.
What You Will Be Doing:
  • Lead and perform engineering design tasks and coordinate with CADD teams in developing plans, specifications, and estimates for preliminary and final design of steel and concrete bridges, walls, and minor structures (Culverts, mast arms, etc.).
  • Identify and understand technical requirements of design projects and implement engineering principles to develop solutions, staffing and execution to include quality control of work.
  • Identify, interpret, and apply appropriate design standards and codes; ensure compliance with contract documents and coordinates with other disciplines.
  • Participate in technical meetings and discussions; strategize solutions to complex or unique technical problems assisting in the development of scope, fees, project execution and planning.
  • Identify technical differentiators and develop schemes for key project pursuits.
  • Assist in providing construction assistance, including reviews of shop drawings, Requests for Information (RFIs) and other construction related issues.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or greater in Structural Engineering or Civil Engineering (Masters or PhD a Plus).
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Iowa.
  • Minimum of 10+ years' structural/bridge engineering design experience.
  • Strong all-around theoretical knowledge of structural engineering principles.
  • Experience with the design of multiple bridge types in concrete and steel, wall systems, and minor structures. Steel plate / box / truss, straight / curved experience a plus.
  • Design experience with the Iowa DOT Design Manuals, AASHTO LRFD, AISC, ACI, and other North American design codes and standards. Proficiency in MathCAD, STAAD Pro, LPILE, LEAP Bridge software, MDX, Bentley/MicroStation products, Midas, LARSA 4D, or other equivalent engineering standard bridge software.
  • Proficiency in seismic and non-linear analysis as well as soil structure interaction analysis and post-tensioned concrete.

Work-Life Balance
We realize there's more to life than just work. We help you meet the demands of work, family and personal life through several flexible options.
What we offer:
Member-Owned. Member-ownership is at the heart of our culture, aligning client satisfaction, company performance, and personal reward.
Paid Time Away. Stanley Consultants offers numerous paid holidays, generous paid time off (PTO), parental leave, and professional development leave.
Health Insurance. We provide a comprehensive insurance package including medical, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, Doctor On Demand, wellness reimbursement, and mental health resources.
Financial Health. We offer life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, identity theft protection, and many other benefits.
Professional Growth. When your skills grow, so do we, which is why we offer tuition assistance, professional society membership, and more.
Financial Rewards. We share our prosperity with members through company stock ownership, a generous 401K match, incentive compensation, and profit-sharing contributions to retirement 401K plans.
Click Here: A Great Place To Work
Learn more about Stanley Consultants in this short video: Working at Stanley Consultants
Stanley Consultants does not welcome unsolicited resumes from staffing and recruiting agencies. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to Stanley Consultants, including but not limited to resumes submitted directly to Stanley Consultants members, or any of our representatives, will be deemed the property of Stanley Consultants.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.