Game Production Coordinator in North Carolina Career Overview

As a Game Production Coordinator, you play a key role in the development of video games, acting as a vital link between various departments involved in the production process. Your responsibilities ensure that projects progress smoothly, adhering to schedules and budget constraints while maintaining high-quality standards.

  • You assist in planning and scheduling the production timeline, coordinating efforts between designers, programmers, artists, and quality assurance teams.
  • You facilitate communication among team members, helping to clarify tasks and expectations, and addressing any issues that may arise during development.
  • You monitor project progress, track milestones, and provide updates to stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is aligned with the project's goals.
  • You may help manage documentation, tracking changes in project scope, and ensuring that the team stays organized and informed.
  • Your role often requires you to support the production team in various administrative tasks, which can range from budgeting to resource allocation.

By ensuring that all elements of game production are running efficiently, you contribute significantly to the overall success of both the project and the gaming studio. Your coordination efforts help foster a collaborative environment that is essential in a creative and dynamic industry like game development.

Game Production Coordinator Salary in North Carolina

Annual Median: $83,040
Hourly Median: $39.93

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Game Production Coordinator in North Carolina

To become a Game Production Coordinator, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Consider the following degree programs that align well with this career path:

  • Business Administration and Management: This program covers fundamental business principles and management strategies, equipping you with skills applicable to various organizational roles within game production.

  • Business Administration: A broader program focused on various business aspects, including finance, marketing, and operations, which can provide you with a well-rounded understanding of the industry.

  • Project Management: This degree emphasizes methods and techniques for managing projects effectively. Knowledge gained here is vital for coordinating different elements of game production.

  • Game and Interactive Media Design: This specialized program focuses on the design and development of games and interactive media, giving you insights into the creative processes involved in game production.

  • Communication Management: This degree focuses on effective communication strategies within organizations. Strong communication is essential for coordinating teams and managing production schedules.

  • Strategic Communications: This program offers knowledge of communication strategies tailored for various stakeholders, which is important in managing relationships in game production environments.

Pursuing any of these degrees can provide a solid foundation for your career as a Game Production Coordinator.

Best Schools to become a Game Production Coordinator in North Carolina 2024

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

In-State Tuition:$12,036
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,036
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:24,808

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
Game Production Coordinator Job Description:
  • Design core features of video games.
  • Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies.
  • Create and maintain design documentation.
  • Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed.

Game Production Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in North Carolina

  • Project Management: You should possess strong organizational skills to manage timelines, resources, and team coordination effectively. Familiarity with project management tools will be beneficial.

  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. You need to convey information clearly to team members, stakeholders, and collaborators.

  • Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues quickly and develop effective solutions is vital. You will often face unexpected challenges during production.

  • Attention to Detail: Keen attention to detail helps you maintain high production standards, ensuring that every aspect of the game aligns with the overall vision.

  • Team Collaboration: You need to work well with diverse teams, often consisting of designers, programmers, artists, and marketing professionals, fostering a cooperative environment.

  • Time Management: Prioritize tasks effectively to meet tight deadlines while ensuring all production aspects are on track.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with game development tools and software (such as Unity, Unreal Engine, or project management software) can enhance your ability to coordinate effectively.

  • Adaptability: The gaming industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving. Being adaptable and open to change will help you respond to shifting project requirements or technologies.

  • Creativity: A creative mindset enables you to contribute innovative ideas and approaches to enhance game development processes and production flows.

  • Negotiation Skills: You may need to negotiate deadlines, resources, or budgets with different stakeholders, requiring strong negotiation abilities to advocate for your team's needs successfully.

  • Understanding of Game Development: While not a developer yourself, having a solid grasp of the game development process, from concept to completion, will aid in effective communication and coordination among team members.

Job Market and Opportunities for Game Production Coordinator in North Carolina

The job market for Game Production Coordinators in North Carolina is experiencing positive momentum, reflective of the broader growth within the gaming industry. Here are key aspects to consider:

  • Demand for Game Production Coordinators: As the gaming industry expands, the demand for skilled professionals to manage production teams and streamline workflows is increasing. Companies are seeking individuals who can efficiently coordinate resources, timelines, and communications, making this role vital to project success.

  • Growth Potential: The gaming industry is projected to experience substantial growth over the next several years. This uplift creates opportunities for advancement within production teams, as well as positions related to project management and creative development. Game Production Coordinators may find pathways to higher-level roles such as Producer or Senior Project Manager.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Raleigh-Durham Area: This region is known as the Research Triangle and hosts several gaming studios and tech companies. The presence of educational institutions like North Carolina State University fosters innovation and collaboration in game development.
    • Charlotte: As a growing city with an expanding technology sector, Charlotte offers opportunities in various gaming companies and start-ups focusing on both mobile and console games.
    • Greensboro: This area is gaining traction with innovative game design companies cropping up, contributing to a supportive environment for gaming professionals.
  • Industry Events and Networking: North Carolina hosts gaming conventions, expos, and networking events that attract industry professionals. Participating in these events can provide valuable connections and insight into the job market while highlighting available opportunities.

  • Collaborative Institutions: Local institutions and organizations like the North Carolina Game Development Association contribute to the industry’s growth. They often provide resources and community support that can assist you in your job search and professional development.

As the gaming industry continues to thrive in North Carolina, the outlook for Game Production Coordinators is bright, with a range of opportunities available across various locales in the state.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Game Production Coordinator in North Carolina

  • International Game Developers Association (IGDA)

    • A global organization that supports game developers through events, resources, and networking opportunities.
    • Website: igda.org
  • Game Developer Conference (GDC)

    • An annual conference that focuses on the development of video games, offering workshops, lectures, and panels presented by industry professionals.
    • Website: gdconf.com
  • Game Development Stack Exchange

    • A question-and-answer site for game development professionals, providing insights and advice from experienced individuals in the field.
    • Website: gamedev.stackexchange.com
  • The Entertainment Software Association (ESA)

    • The trade association representing the video game industry in the U.S. Provides reports, news, and information relevant to game production and market trends.
    • Website: theesa.com
  • LinkedIn Learning

    • Offers various online courses covering project management, game design, and production workflows specific to the game development industry.
    • Website: linkedin.com/learning
  • Gamasutra

    • An online platform that features articles, blog posts, and job listings related to game development, including insights from industry experts.
    • Website: gamasutra.com
  • American game developers' resources

    • A collection of resources and communities dedicated to support and networking for game developers in the U.S.
    • Website: americangamedevelopers.com
  • Reddit - GameDev Community

    • A subreddit dedicated to game development where you can find discussions, advice, and shared experiences from game production coordinators and other professionals in the field.
    • Website: reddit.com/r/gamedev
  • Project Management Institute (PMI)

    • Offers resources on project management methodologies, essential for a career in game production.
    • Website: pmi.org
  • Coursera

    • Provides access to online courses from universities and colleges on subjects related to game production, project management, and team dynamics.
    • Website: coursera.org

These resources can help you enhance your knowledge and skills as a Game Production Coordinator and connect you with industry professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Game Production Coordinator in North Carolina

  • What does a Game Production Coordinator do?
    A Game Production Coordinator supports the production team in managing schedules, resources, and communication. You may handle documentation, coordinate meetings, track project progress, and ensure that deadlines are met across various departments.

  • What skills are necessary for this role?
    Important skills include strong organizational abilities, excellent communication, proficiency in project management tools, and a basic understanding of game development processes. Familiarity with game design software and an understanding of team dynamics are also beneficial.

  • What educational background is recommended?
    While a degree in game design, production management, or a related field can be helpful, experience and specific skills matter more. Many employers value practical experience or relevant certifications in project management methodologies.

  • Is experience in game development required?
    Direct experience in game development is advantageous but not always required. Entry-level positions may accept candidates with related experience in project coordination or team management from other industries.

  • What are the common industries for Game Production Coordinators?
    Game Production Coordinators typically work in video game development studios, mobile gaming companies, and interactive media firms. Opportunities may also exist in corporate training and educational game development.

  • What is the career progression for a Game Production Coordinator?
    As you gain experience, you may advance to roles such as Production Manager, Associate Producer, or Producer. Career growth often involves taking on more responsibility in overseeing larger projects or teams.

  • What is the work environment like?
    The work environment can be fast-paced, requiring you to adapt to changing priorities. Most production coordinators work in an office setting, but remote work opportunities are becoming more common.

  • How can I improve my chances of landing a job as a Game Production Coordinator?
    Building relevant skills through internships, networking within the industry, and gaining experience in related roles can significantly enhance your employability. Consider participating in game jams or contributing to community projects to showcase your abilities.

  • What salary can I expect as a Game Production Coordinator in North Carolina?
    Salaries for Game Production Coordinators in North Carolina can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company, but they generally range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually.

  • Are there any professional organizations or resources for Game Production Coordinators?
    Yes, organizations like the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) and the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) offer resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights that can be beneficial for your career.