The complete list of gaming jobs

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The complete list of gaming jobs

Did you know there are now over 200 different types of jobs you can do in the video game industry?

If not, don't worry. We didn't either until we started on our quest to curate the "complete list of gaming jobs"!

Initially published in 2022 alongside a fancy graphic that has now been viewed well over 2,000,000 times on social media (you can download a high-resolution version of that here), this updated article is intended to give a clear overview of the types of careers people can pursue in games in 2024.

Whether you're looking to head down the more traditional routes of game development, game design, or concept art, looking to break into game testing or pursue sound design jobs, or even if you're a budding accountant or lawyer, there's something for you in our industry.

See for yourself!

If you'd like something more actionable, here's the complete list in text form with some handy explainers and links to filtered searches on our platform so you can find your dream job right away!

Game Programming

Also known as "game engineering", this is the process of creating and implementing the code that runs video games. It involves using programming languages like C++, C#, and Java to make the game's mechanics, physics, artificial intelligence, and overall functionality. Game developers work closely with other game development team members to bring the game design to life.

The types of roles that exist within the game development employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • AI Programming
  • Build & Release Programming
  • Engine Programming
  • Gameplay Programming
  • Graphics Programming
  • Network Programming
  • Physics Programming
  • Rendering
  • Tools Programming
  • UI Programming

See all of the latest game programming jobs here.

Game Design

This is the process of creating the concepts and rules that govern a video game, including its mechanics, systems, and overall player experience. Game designers work on the gameplay, mechanics, and systems that make up a game, and use their creativity and problem-solving skills to make the game fun, engaging, and challenging. They collaborate with other members of the game development team, including artists, programmers, and audio engineers, to bring their ideas to life.

The types of roles that exist within the game design employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • AI Design
  • Combat Design
  • Content Design
  • Economy Design
  • Encounter Design
  • Interaction Design
  • Level Design
  • Monetization Design
  • Multiplayer Design
  • Narrative Design
  • Prototyping
  • Quest Design
  • Scripting
  • Social Design
  • Systems Design
  • Technical Design
  • UI Design
  • Writing (Game Writing)

See all of the latest game design jobs here.

Game Production

This is the process of managing the development, creation, and launch of a video game. It involves coordinating the efforts of a team of designers, artists, programmers, and other specialists to ensure that the game is completed on time and within budget. The role of a game producer includes overseeing the development process, managing the team, and making key decisions to ensure the final product meets the vision and quality standards.

The types of roles that exist within the game production employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Age Ratings Production
  • Game Direction
  • Live Operations
  • Producing
  • Project Management
  • Publishing
  • Release Management
  • Studio Management

See all of the latest game production jobs here.

Art

This is the process of creating the visual elements of a video game, including characters, environments, and special effects. Game artists use a variety of techniques, including 2D and 3D modeling, animation, texturing, and lighting, to bring the game world to life. They work closely with game designers and programmers to ensure that the art style and visuals complement the gameplay and overall game experience.

The types of roles that exist within the art employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • 2D Art
  • 3D Art
  • Character Art
  • Concept Art
  • Creative/Art Direction
  • Environment Art
  • Lighting Art
  • Model Art
  • Prop Art
  • Shader Art
  • Storyboarding
  • Technical Art
  • Texture Art
  • Tools & Pipeline
  • UI Art
  • VFX Art
  • Vehicle Art
  • Weapon Art

See all of the latest art jobs here.

Animation

This is the process of creating the movement and actions of characters, creatures, and objects in a video game. Game animators use keyframe animation, motion capture, and other techniques to create realistic or stylized movements that bring the game to life. They work closely with game designers and programmers to ensure that the animation is responsive, smooth, and believable and that it enhances the gameplay and overall game experience.

The types of roles that exist within the animation employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • 2D Animation
  • 3D Animation
  • Cinematics
  • Gameplay Animation
  • Motion Capture
  • Particle Animation
  • Programming
  • Rigging
  • Technical Animation
  • VFX Animation

See all of the latest animation jobs here.

Audio

This is the process of creating and implementing sound and music for a video game. Game audio designers and engineers work on both the technical and creative aspects of sound and music production. They use a variety of tools and techniques to create sound effects, dialogue, and musical scores that complement the gameplay and overall game experience. They also work closely with game programmers to ensure that the audio is integrated seamlessly into the game engine.

The types of roles that exist within the audio employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Audio Composition
  • Audio Engineering
  • Audio Programming
  • Sound Design
  • Technical Design
  • Vocal Direction

See all of the latest audio jobs here.

Localization

Localization is the process of adapting a game for different regions, ensuring it is culturally and linguistically suitable for various international markets. Localization professionals translate text and dialogue within the game, modifying cultural references, jokes, and idiomatic expressions so they resonate with players from different backgrounds. They also address regulatory compliance, ensuring games meet the legal and cultural standards of each region.

The types of roles that exist within the localization employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Localization Editing
  • Localization Engineering
  • Localization Testing
  • Translation

See all of the latest localization jobs here.

Software Engineering

This is the process of designing, creating, testing, and maintaining any software that would not be classed as a video game. It includes the application of engineering principles to the design and development of software, to ensure that software is reliable, efficient, and maintainable. Software engineers use various methodologies, tools, and technologies to develop software products.

The types of roles that exist within the software engineering employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • AI Engineering
  • Backend Development
  • Build & Release Engineering
  • Cloud Engineering
  • Data Analytics
  • DevOps
  • Frontend Development
  • Full Stack Development
  • Mobile Development
  • Network Engineering
  • Product Design
  • Project Management
  • Technical Writing

See all of the latest software engineering jobs here.

Quality Assurance (QA)

This is the process of testing and evaluating the game to ensure that it meets the desired quality standards and is free of bugs and errors. QA testers play the game repeatedly, testing all aspects of the game, including its gameplay, graphics, sound, and user interface. They document and report any bugs or issues they find to the development team, and work with them to resolve them.

The types of roles that exist within the quality assurance (QA) employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Analysis
  • Automation
  • Certification
  • Compatibility
  • Compliance
  • Engineering
  • Interruption
  • Performance
  • Platform
  • SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test)
  • Submission
  • Testing

See all of the latest quality assurance (QA) jobs here.

User Experience (UX)

UX focuses on optimizing player engagement and satisfaction by designing intuitive and enjoyable game interfaces and interactions. UX professionals study player behaviors and preferences, crafting game elements like menus, controls, and feedback systems that are user-friendly and enhance the overall gaming experience. They collaborate with developers and artists to ensure that the game is not only functional but also visually appealing and emotionally resonant.

The types of opportunities that exist within the UX employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Accessibility
  • Information Architecture
  • Usability
  • UX Design
  • UX Engineering
  • UX Research
  • UX Strategy
  • UX Writing

See all of the latest UX jobs here.

Broadcast

This refers to the live streaming or broadcasting of video game content. It includes the production, distribution, and promotion of live streaming and competitive video game events on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, or Facebook, as well as more traditional television broadcasts. It allows fans to watch and engage with their favorite games, players, and content creators in real time and generates revenue through advertising and sponsorship.

The types of roles that exist within the broadcast employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Camera Operation
  • Floor Management
  • Game Observation
  • Graphics Operation
  • Lighting
  • Producing
  • Replay Operation
  • Scriptwriting
  • Sound Engineering
  • Stream Engineering
  • Studio Management

See all of the latest broadcast jobs here.

Talent

This refers to individuals such as professional players, content creators, streamers, commentators, and other personalities. Talent can be involved in competitive gaming, creating content for streaming platforms, or providing commentary and analysis on the industry. They are often sponsored by brands and organizations and are considered influencers in the video game community.

The types of roles that exist within the talent employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Casting
  • Content Creation
  • Hosting
  • Interviewing
  • Playing
  • Screen Acting
  • Streaming
  • Talent Agency
  • Talent Management
  • Voice Acting

See all of the latest talent jobs here.

Events

This refers to live conferences, tournaments, and competitions organized by game developers, publishers, and gaming communities. Tournaments can range from small-scale online events to large-scale esports events with millions of dollars in prize money. Events in the video game industry often feature gameplay demonstrations, game launches, cosplay contests, and meet-and-greets with game developers.

The types of roles that exist within the events employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Audio/Visual
  • Catering
  • Customer Service
  • Emergency Services
  • Equipment Management
  • Facilities Management
  • Game Observation
  • Hospitality
  • Logistics
  • Security
  • Technical Engineering

See all of the latest events jobs here.

Content & Media

This refers to various forms of content creation, such as writing, filming, editing, and broadcasting. It also refers to the reporting and writing of news, reviews, features, and guides about the video game industry, its products, and its players. Content in the video game industry is typically distributed online on websites and social media platforms like Twitch, X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The types of roles that exist within the content & media employment sectors in the video game industry include:

  • Cinematography
  • Copy Editing
  • Game Capture
  • Graphic Design
  • Journalism
  • Moderation
  • Motion Design
  • Photography
  • Scriptwriting
  • Translation
  • Trust & Safety
  • Video Editing
  • Videography

See all of the latest content & media jobs here.

Competitive

Also known as esports, this refers to organized, professional video game competitions where players or teams compete for prizes and recognition. These competitions can be held online or in person and feature popular games such as League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and Dota.

The types of roles that exist within the competitive employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Coaching
  • Fitness
  • Nutrition
  • Performance Analysis
  • Physiotherapy
  • Playing
  • Psychology
  • Refereeing
  • Scouting
  • Team Management

See all of the latest competitive jobs here.

Finance & Legal

This refers to the financial management, budgeting, and forecasting of revenue and expenses, as well as legal compliance and protection of intellectual property rights. This includes the management of contracts, agreements, and negotiations with partners, investors, and publishers, as well as compliance with laws and regulations related to the industry, such as copyright and trademark laws.

The types of roles that exist within the finance & legal employment sectors in the video game industry include:

  • Accounting
  • Auditing
  • Compliance
  • Counsel
  • Financial Analysis
  • Licensing
  • Mergers & Acquisitions
  • Payroll
  • Reporting
  • Tax

See all of the latest finance & legal jobs here.

Commercial

This refers to the business side of the video game industry. This includes the management, production, distribution, and marketing of video games, as well as the revenue generated from sales of games and in-game purchases. It also includes the monetization of related services such as online gaming and esports, the sale of merchandise, licensing, and other forms of revenue, and the customer support attached to these pursuits.

The types of roles that exist within the commercial employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Account Management
  • Advertising Operations
  • Business Development
  • Customer Support
  • Ecommerce
  • Manufacturing
  • Merchandising
  • Monetization
  • Partnerships
  • Procurement
  • Product Management
  • Retail
  • Sales
  • Sponsorships
  • Ticketing

See all of the latest commercial jobs here.

Marketing

This refers to the promotion and advertising of video games and video game-related products, services, and personalities to potential customers, users, or followers. This can include creating trailers and other promotional materials, running ads on television, social media, and other platforms, and engaging with the game community through events, giveaways, and campaigns.

The types of roles that exist within the marketing employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Brand Marketing
  • Campaign Management
  • Community Management
  • Copywriting
  • Digital Marketing
  • Email Marketing
  • Influencer Marketing
  • Product Marketing
  • Public Relations
  • Social Media
  • User Acquisition
  • Visual Marketing

See all of the latest marketing jobs here.

Human Resources (HR)

This refers to the management of the people and talent within the video game industry. Human resources (HR) includes recruiting, hiring, training, and developing of employees. HR professionals also manage employee relations, benefits, and compliance with laws and regulations.

The types of roles that exist within the human resources (HR) employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Compensation & Benefits
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Employee Engagement
  • Employee Relations
  • Employer Branding
  • Health & Safety
  • People Management
  • Recruitment
  • Talent Acquisition
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness

See all of the latest human resources (HR) jobs here.

Information Technology (IT)

This refers to the use of information technology to support the development, operation, and management of video games. It involves the use of computer systems, software, and networks to manage and distribute information related to game development, testing, and maintenance, as well as the distribution of the game to players. IT professionals in the video game industry are responsible for ensuring that systems are secure, reliable, and efficient and that they meet the needs of the organization.

The types of roles that exist within the information technology (IT) employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Cyber Security
  • Network Engineering
  • System Administration
  • Technical Support

See all of the latest IT jobs here.

Research

This refers to the study of the video game industry. This can include researching the effects of games on players, the design and development of games, the business and financial aspects of the industry, and the cultural and societal impact of games. Research can be conducted by academic institutions, game development companies, or independent researchers, and can be used to inform the development of new games, the design of public policy, or to better understand the impact of games on individuals and society.

The types of roles that exist within the research employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Academic Research
  • Consumer Research
  • Data Entry
  • Market Research
  • Research Operations

See all of the latest research jobs here.

Administrative

This refers to the various roles that support the operations and management of a company in the video game industry. Administrative staff handle scheduling, budgeting, record-keeping, and communication tasks, ensuring that the company runs smoothly and efficiently. These roles are vital for companies to function and support the other departments and teams.

The types of roles that exist within the administrative employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Data Entry
  • Executive/Personal Assistance
  • Facilities Support
  • Office Management
  • Reception

See all of the latest administrative jobs here.

Education

This refers to the teaching of the subsets of video games as disciplines in schools, colleges, and universities, and the use of video games as a tool to educate, teach, and train people of all ages and backgrounds. This includes using games to teach subjects such as math, science, history, and language, as well as using games to teach soft skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.

The types of roles that exist within the education employment sector in the video game industry include:

  • Curriculum Design
  • Lecturing
  • Program Development
  • Program Management
  • Safeguarding
  • Teaching

See all of the latest education jobs here.

We hope there's something perfect for you in this laundry list of opportunities, be it for right now or for the future.

If you have any feedback on our list, good or bad, or think we can improve our graphic in some way, please drop us a line at contact(at)hitmarker.net to let us know!