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Junior Game Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Symvionics

Junior Software Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

Infrastructure engineering services include modification of existinginfrastructure, design and ... Game Engine or Unreal Engine. A Bachelor's Degree with 2 years of relevant experience; degree in ...

SCCI

AR/VR Developer III

King George, VA · On-site

Mentors junior employees to apply creativity while developing technical expertise applied to R&D ... Game Design, or a closely related technical field * Five (5)+ years of hands-on AR/VR/XR ...

Belay Technologies

Senior Java Developer

Hanover, VA · On-site

$190K - $238K/yr

Architectural Analysis & Design: Deconstruct complex requirements to determine system impact. You ... Manage feature status to leadership and mentor junior/mid-level peers. * Quality Assurance: Conduct ...

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Junior Game Design information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$56.2K

$85.3K

How much do junior game design jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior game design in Virginia is $56,211.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $64,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Junior Game Designer, you generally need a strong understanding of game mechanics, creative problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree or coursework in game design or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, basic scripting, and proficiency in design software such as Photoshop are typically expected. Collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills that help integrate feedback and work efficiently within a development team. These skills ensure the creation of engaging gameplay experiences and support smooth project workflows in a competitive industry.

How does a Junior Game Designer typically collaborate with other departments during the development process?

As a Junior Game Designer, you’ll regularly collaborate with artists, programmers, and writers to ensure your game concepts are effectively implemented. This means attending cross-functional meetings, providing clear documentation of your designs, and giving feedback during playtesting. Open communication and flexibility are essential, as you may need to adjust your ideas based on technical constraints or creative input from other teams. These interactions provide valuable learning experiences and help you understand the broader development pipeline.

What are Junior Game Designers?

Junior Game Designers are entry-level professionals in the gaming industry who assist in creating and developing the concepts, mechanics, and rules of video games. They work closely with senior designers, programmers, and artists to help turn ideas into playable experiences. Their tasks often include creating design documents, prototyping gameplay features, and playtesting. This role is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in game development and build foundational skills in game design.

What is the difference between Junior Game Design vs Game Designer?

AspectJunior Game DesignGame Designer
Required CredentialsDegree in game design, computer science, or related field; portfolioSimilar credentials, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team collaboration, under supervisionMore autonomous, leadership roles possible
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in game studios for entry rolesUsed for experienced roles, but overlaps with senior positions
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking to start in game designPeople seeking to advance or understand the role

Junior Game Design roles are entry-level positions requiring foundational skills and education, often working under supervision. Game Designers typically have more experience, greater responsibilities, and may lead projects. The main difference lies in experience level and scope of responsibilities, with Junior Game Design serving as a stepping stone toward becoming a full Game Designer.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Design jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Game Design jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Game Design jobs in Virginia? For Junior Game Design jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Game Design jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Game Design jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Junior Game Design jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Junior Game Design job openings:
Junior Game Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Game Design job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Internship, 40% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,211 per year, or $27 per hour.
Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI)

Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI)

George Mason University

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 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 528 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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