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Video Game Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Auria

Software Engineer- Mid

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Auriais looking to hire a Software Engineer- Mid to support the SDA PWSA STTR program .This role is ... Experience in game development, especially on Godot Engine or Unity. Experience with dev testing ...

Shure

Engineer II, Software

Niles, IL

$98K - $134K/yr

Join Shure's Video and Emerging Data Technology team and help shape the next generation of intelligent audio, video, and collaboration solutions. As an Engineer II, Software , you will play a ...

Shure

Engineer II, Software

Niles, IL

$98K - $134K/yr

Overview Join Shure's Video and Emerging Data Technology team and help shape the next generation of intelligent audio, video, and collaboration solutions. As an Engineer II, Software , you will play ...

Shure

Engineer II, Software

Niles, IL · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

Overview Join Shure's Video and Emerging Data Technology team and help shape the next generation of intelligent audio, video, and collaboration solutions. As an Engineer II, Software , you will play ...

Shure

Engineer II, Software

Niles, IL · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

Overview Join Shure's Video and Emerging Data Technology team and help shape the next generation of intelligent audio, video, and collaboration solutions. As an Engineer II, Software , you will play ...

Shure

Engineer II, Software

Niles, IL · On-site

$90.60 - $145/hr

Overview Join Shure's Video and Emerging Data Technology team and help shape the next generation of intelligent audio, video, and collaboration solutions. As an Engineer II, Software , you will play ...

Astronics

Senior Software Engineer, Firmware

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$113K - $150K/yr

As a Senior Software Engineer, Firmware you'll design, develop, integrate, and maintain firmware ... video, and other devices by installing, or possibly customizing kernel modules Ability to write ...

Astronics

Senior Software Engineer, Firmware

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$113K - $150K/yr

As a Senior Software Engineer, Firmware you'll design, develop, integrate, and maintain firmware ... video, and other devices by installing, or possibly customizing kernel modules Ability to write ...

Astronics

Senior Software Engineer, Firmware

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$113K - $150K/yr

... video, and other devices by installing, or possibly customizing kernel modules * Ability to write ... software, or firmware programming software development according to industry best practices

Flow Traders NV

Senior Software Engineer, C++

Chicago, IL · On-site

$210.85 - $256.44/hr

Software Engineers at Flow Traders provide us with our competitive edge, equipping Researchers and ... Great Global Locations Vibrant working environments, furnished with lounges, bars, gaming areas and ...

TransPerfect

Marketing Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a leading provider of world-class art, animation, VFX, and engineering services for the video game industry, we partner with AAA studios and publishers to bring their creative visions to life. Our ...

TransPerfect

Marketing Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a leading provider of world-class art, animation, VFX, and engineering services for the video game industry, we partner with AAA studios and publishers to bring their creative visions to life. Our ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsVideo Game Software Engineer JobsVideo Game Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Video Game Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$154.5K

$178.7K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game software engineer in Chicago, IL is $154,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $178,200.00 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.
More about Video Game Software Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Video Game Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $154,521 per year, or $74.3 per hour.

Software Engineer - Python

Hudson River Trading

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Hudson River Trading (HRT) is a quantitative trading firm at the forefront of technological innovation. We build and deploy cutting-edge systems within one of the world's most advanced computing environments to power our global trading operations. Our bottom-up approach to projects and collaborative coding environment empower talented engineers to make significant contributions and see their impact daily. At HRT, you'll be challenged to solve the most complex problems in trading alongside many of the brightest minds in the field.
We are always seeking highly motivated and skilled Software Engineers across many different teams at HRT. These roles demand exceptional programming fundamentals, sharp debugging abilities, and strong critical thinking and communication skills. Engineers at HRT work on a wide variety of platform and trading-adjacent projects. Examples include:
  • Improving scheduling efficiency of distributed computations, speeding up research iteration.
  • Enhancing developer experience through language tooling, jupyter extensions, and AI tools.
  • Leveraging LLMs to make operational support tasks faster and more efficient.
  • Profiling computer usage at all levels, from system calls to large scale distributed computations.
  • Building systems to interact with trading venues and monitor risk.

Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain robust, efficient, and scalable software systems.
  • Debug complex issues across distributed systems in a time-sensitive environment.
  • Contribute to all phases of the software development lifecycle, from ideation to deployment and support.
  • Deliver exceptional experiences for internal users; your success will be directly tied to your ability to understand the needs of the people around you and apply your technical skills to efficiently meet them.

Qualifications
  • Completed a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field. If you are currently pursuing your Bachelor's degree, please apply to our Campus/New Grad opportunities.
  • Previous experience at a top-tier finance or technology company with an excellent track record of rapid advancement and superlative reviews.
  • Experience with applications of cutting-edge technology is preferred; being a core contributor to said technology is even better.
  • Candidates should be prepared for technical interviews in Python. While there is no hard language requirement for these roles, proficiency in one this language will be assessed during the interview process.
  • Kindness and empathy is a real requirement. No "smart jerks" at HRT.
  • Strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and design principles.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • HRT ships every day. The ability to thoughtfully, methodically, and reliably deploy new software and features is a critical skill.
  • If you have management experience, that's always a bonus - but even so, expect to code!

The estimated base salary range for this position is 200,000 to 300,000 USD per year (or local equivalent). The base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. This role will also be eligible for discretionary performance-based bonuses and a competitive benefits package.
For more info about interviewing at HRT, see this blog!
Culture
Hudson River Trading (HRT) brings a scientific approach to trading financial products. We have built one of the world's most sophisticated computing environments for research and development. Our researchers are at the forefront of innovation in the world of algorithmic trading.
At HRT we welcome a variety of expertise: mathematics and computer science, physics and engineering, media and tech. We're a community of self-starters who are motivated by the excitement of being at the cutting edge of automation in every part of our organization-from trading, to business operations, to recruiting and beyond. We value openness and transparency, and celebrate great ideas from HRT veterans and new hires alike. At HRT we're friends and colleagues - whether we are sharing a meal, playing the latest board game, or writing elegant code. We embrace a culture of togetherness that extends far beyond the walls of our office.
Feel like you belong at HRT? Our goal is to find the best people and bring them together to do great work in a place where everyone is valued. HRT is proud of our diverse staff; we have offices all over the globe and benefit from our varied and unique perspectives. HRT is an equal opportunity employer; so whoever you are we'd love to get to know you.
Please be advised: Use of AI tools during interviews or assessments is strictly prohibited, unless otherwise instructed or agreed upon. We employ various methods to evaluate the authenticity of candidate responses. If we determine that AI assistance was used during any stage of the hiring process, we reserve the right to immediately disqualify your candidacy or rescind any job offers extended.

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