Expectations for a Game Designer Fresh Out of School

GameDev.net, LLC; United States; Remote; USD 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for fresh talent in game design. Graduates with a Bachelor's in Game Design and Development are encouraged to apply for entry-level positions. While roles may vary from design to programming, the emphasis is on specialization. Candidates should be eager to learn and adapt, as expectations include a willingness to train and grow within the company. This is a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your career in a dynamic and creative environment, where your contributions can shape the future of gaming.

Qualifications

• Broad introduction to design, art, and programming.
• Strong desire to meet employer expectations.

Responsibilities

• Seek entry-level roles matching interests in design, programming, or art.
• Be prepared to learn on the job and show effort.

Skills

Game Design

Programming

Art

Level Design

Character Design

Education

Bachelor's in Game Design and Development

Job description

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Expectations for a Game Designer Fresh Out of School

I'm graduating with a Bachelor's in Game Design and Development in about 3 months. My intent is to go out and find a job with a studio rather than work on small/solo projects. I have not had very much interaction with people actively working in the field, so I feel somewhat in the dark as to what the expectations are for someone like me who is fresh out of school. I've had a very broad introduction to the field, touching on design, art, and programming, but I don't feel as if I have mastered any of them. I'm most interested in Design, but I would be willing to perform just about any role to build experience. Regardless of the specialization, I feel a strong desire to meet the expectations of a potential employer, but I have no idea what the expectations are. Can anyone give me some insight as to what employers are looking for in new hires who have recently graduated? Do the expectations change with each specialization (Design vs. Programming)? Which jobs do I have the best chance of getting as a newbie? I just need a bit of direction from someone more knowledgeable than myself. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks for taking the time.

Game Design and Development student at Southern New Hampshire University

Advice from Hammer_Deus

Touching on design, art, and programming is not a job. Companies hire specialists in design disciplines like level or character design, art roles such as concept artists and animators, as well as programmers, QA, and production roles.

Most employers prefer schools that focus on a single discipline with exposure to others, like a CS degree with a game development certificate. Entry-level positions are available but rare, especially for designers. Small studios and startups may be more flexible.

Apply for roles matching your interests: if you like programming, look for entry-level programming jobs; if art, seek art discipline roles; if design, look for level or character design positions. Expectations for entry-level hires include being a beginner who requires training, showing effort, and being capable of learning on the job.

Further insights from Hammer_Deus

Roles like game designer are usually more experienced positions with significant creative control. Entry-level roles include associate or assistant designer, often in level or character design. Programming can sometimes involve designing gameplay mechanics, especially in small teams, but core game design is typically a separate discipline.

Transitioning from programming to a game designer role is possible, especially with experience. Remote work is increasingly common but depends on the studio and location; many companies still value proximity, but remote opportunities are growing.