Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design - Game Programming

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design – Game Programming

The George Mason University Computer Game Design Program, within the College of Visual and Performing Arts, seeks qualified candidates for an Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design in Game Programming. George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason’s academic and culturally inclusive environment.

Responsibilities:

The role of the Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design is to teach the undergraduate and graduate game design and programming courses, and help develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program. Candidates are expected to pursue research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to make a significant contribution to the field. Key responsibilities include:

• Teaches a 4-4 load each academic year from an approved curriculum and develops future courses in game design/programming;
• Participates in school recruitment and retention initiatives, and activities determined by the Program Director;
• Motivates students to actively participate in all aspects of the educational process;
• Completes professional development and in-service activities in accordance with university standards;
• Maintains expertise in subject area and recommends improvements in curriculum design;
• When possible, participates in core course academic support programs, student mentoring and student professional associations; and
• Serves on program, college and university committees in consultation with the Program Director.

Additional Functions

Actively seeks external grants and contracts to support research and creative endeavors; and Participates in professional game design and game production-related organizations and conferences.

Required Qualifications:

• Experienced and knowledgeable about all facets of the game design and game programming field, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
• Master’s degree or equivalent professional experience (minimum 5 years);
• Extensive knowledge and experience working with or teaching all primary game design, game programming, 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;
• Knowledge of C#, C++, game networking, game AI, game physics, game engines, and mobile apps;
• Knowledge of work flow 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;
• Possesses an approach that fosters a respectful, nonthreatening workplace environment; and
• Has a demonstrated commitment and ability to work collaboratively within a complex work environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Publications of major entertainment or serious games and two years of higher education teaching in the subject matter area; and
• Terminal degree in game-related discipline.

Special Instructions to Applicants  

For full consideration, applicants must apply for position number F747AZ at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a cover letter, CV, and a list of three professional references with contact information.

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.