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Game Development Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Families rave about our coaches who sparked passion for the game and helped build confidence in ... Encourage character development through positive reinforcement and modeling. * Utilize expert ...

IT Internship

Herndon, VA

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Collaborate with other interns and technical team members. Bring your full self to work each day ... gaming Mentorship and professional development opportunities We are proud to be an Equal ...

IT Internship

Herndon, VA

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

... interns and technical team members. • Bring your full self to work each day. • A "will do ... gaming • Mentorship and professional development opportunities We are proud to be an Equal ...

IT Internship

Herndon, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

... with other interns and technical team members. • Bring your full self to work each day ... gaming • Mentorship and professional development opportunities We are proud to be an Equal ...

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Game Development Internship information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Development Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Development Intern, you generally need a foundational knowledge of programming languages (such as C# or C++), game engines (like Unity or Unreal Engine), and a background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git), 3D modeling tools, and basic understanding of game design principles is often expected. Strong teamwork, creativity, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help interns contribute meaningfully to collaborative projects. These skills and qualities are essential for creating engaging games, adapting to evolving tasks, and integrating smoothly into professional development teams.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a Game Development Internship?

As a Game Development Intern, you'll typically work on collaborative projects with experienced developers, ranging from prototyping simple game mechanics to contributing code, art, or audio to ongoing titles. Interns often participate in agile sprints, attend team meetings, and may be assigned tasks like debugging, playtesting, or creating assets under supervision. This hands-on experience is designed to build your portfolio while giving you exposure to the full development pipeline and industry-standard tools. You'll also have opportunities to receive mentorship and feedback, helping you grow both technically and creatively.

What is a Game Development Internship?

A Game Development Internship is a temporary, often entry-level position where students or recent graduates work with a game development team to gain hands-on experience in creating video games. Interns may assist with programming, designing, testing, or other aspects of game production under the supervision of experienced professionals. These internships provide valuable industry exposure, help build technical and creative skills, and can sometimes lead to full-time positions. Interns typically work on real projects, contributing to various stages of game development. It's a great opportunity to network and learn about the game industry from the inside.
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Development jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Game Development jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Development Internship jobs in Virginia? For Game Development Internship jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Development Internship jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Game Development Internship jobs in Virginia are:
Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI)

Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI)

George Mason University

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts
Classification: Info Technology Spec 1
Job Category: Classified Staff
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Manassas, VA
Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible
Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship
Pay Band: 04
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Restricted: Yes
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
The Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) exists to support Mason's entrepreneurial and innovation goals by cultivating and supporting Mason-founded startups, rapid prototype development, high-value knowledge job creation, and regional economic development through serious game technology discovery to improve the human condition.
About the Position:
The Project Developer at the Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) plays a pivotal role in supporting the ideation, creation, and management of projects that advance the institute's applied research, incubator, and outreach initiatives. This position requires a highly adaptable individual with strong technical expertise in game development and emerging technologies. The Project Developer leads and oversees both individual and team-based projects, ensuring alignment with VSGI's strategic goals and technological standards. This role also includes representing VSGI in various internal and external engagements.
Responsibilities:
Provides design, development, and coding expertise for VSGI projects and grant-funded initiatives.
  • Designs and implements interactive digital experiences using Unity, Unreal, and other industry-standard engines;
  • Writes and maintains scalable, efficient code for serious game applications;
  • Collaborates with faculty and external partners to translate research into prototypes; and
  • Troubleshoots cross-platform technical issues.

Leads and manages VSGI research and start-up projects, including timelines, asset creation, and development workflows.
  • Develops project plans with clear milestones and deliverables;
  • Oversees asset creation and integration;
  • Coordinates interdisciplinary teams;
  • Documents decisions and project outcomes; and
  • Conducts QA testing and iterative improvements.

Facilitates communication among VSGI staff, affiliated companies, students, university administration, and external stakeholders;
  • Serves as liaison between technical and non-technical stakeholders;
  • Leads regular meetings and collaborative sessions; and
  • Mentors student interns and junior developers.

Delivers project updates and presentations to stakeholders, including corporate partners, faculty, administrators, and government officials.
  • Prepares and presents reports on project status and impact;
  • Tailors presentations to diverse audiences;
  • Contributes to grant reporting and proposals; and
  • Represents VSGI at public events;

Develops new resources and tools to support VSGI and affiliated programs when not directly engaged in project work.
  • Researches and prototypes emerging technologies; and
  • Supports curriculum development and outreach.

Represents VSGI in meetings with clients, partners, and dignitaries, including in the absence of the Director.
  • Acts as spokesperson for VSGI;
  • Builds relationships with partners and agencies;
  • Facilitates strategic discussions; and
  • Ensures continuity of leadership.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Experience (generally, minimum of 3 years) in game development, including Unity and Unreal Engine;
  • Experience with VR, AR, and AI technologies;
  • Familiarity with source control systems (e.g., Git);
  • Knowledge of grant-funded initiatives;
  • Strong project management and team coordination skills;
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities;
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively;
  • Ability to adapt to emerging technologies and shifting project needs;
  • Ability to investigate, adopt, and integrate new technologies as needed;
  • Proven ability to lead development projects and ensure timely, scoped delivery;
  • Proficiency in programming for game engines and related platforms;
  • Proficiency in programming languages relevant to game development (e.g., C#, C++, Python); and
  • Strong capacity to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in related field;
  • Experience (generally, 5+ years) in Computer Game Design Development;
  • Experience in serious game development; and
  • Demonstrated ability working with a diverse population of artists, faculty, staff, students, and community members.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and resume for review.
Posting Open Date: January 9, 2026
For Full Consideration, Apply by: January 24, 2026
Open Until Filled: Yes
Mason Ad Statement
Mason is currently the largest and most diverse university in Virginia with students and faculty from all 50 states and over 135 countries studying in over 200 degree programs at campuses in Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William, as well as at learning locations across the commonwealth. Rooted in Mason's diversity is a campus culture that is both rewarding and exciting, work that is meaningful, and opportunities to both collaborate and create.
If you are interested in joining the Mason family take a look at our current opportunities and catch some Mason spirit at jobs.gmu.edu/!
George Mason University, Where Innovation is Tradition.
Equity Statement
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Campus Safety Information
Mason's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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