Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design

Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts

Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty

Job Category: Instructional Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: N/A - I/R Faculty

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

About the Department:

1. Offers undergraduate game design courses leading to a BFA in Computer Game Design;
2. Provides mentorship and guidance in game production to students pursuing majors and minors in Computer Game Design; and
3. Supports a cohesive faculty and staff to carry out objectives 1 and 2.

About the Position:

Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses and helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program. Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Responsibilities:

• Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses;
• Helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program; and
• Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in related field;
• 5+ years experience in Game Design or related industry, or Master's degree in related field;
• Experienced in all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
• Extensive experience working with all primary game design, production, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
• Applicable experience (minimum of five years is desired) in the industry; and expertise using current professional game engines, editors and project management software;
• Knowledgeable about all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
• Extensive knowledge working with all primary game design, game programming, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
• Knowledge of 3D Modeling and animation software utilized in the industry;
• Knowledge of workflow in multi-platform game production and publication;
• Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills;
• Proven critical thinking, problem-solving, and judgment skills;
• Ability to successfully interact with the industry business and governmental communities;
• Has a demonstrated commitment and ability to work collaboratively within a complex work environment; and
• Possesses an approach that fosters a respectful, nonthreatening workplace environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in related field;
• 5+ years experience in the Game Design industry and publication of major entertainment or serious games, or Terminal degree in Game related discipline; and
• Demonstrated ability working with a diverse population of artists, students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Instructions to Applicants:

For full consideration, applicants must apply for Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.

Posting Open Date: August 29, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by: September 12, 2025

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