The Ins and Outs of Game Studio Hiring: A Guide for Aspiring Video Game Artists

February 13, 2024

Are you an aspiring video game artist eager to break into the gaming industry? You learned about What it’s like to be a video game artist, but do you now what happens behind the scenes during the hiring process? Look no further! In this post, we'll take you through the inside scoop on how game studio hiring works.

The Hiring Process

First things first: when a team lead or department head determines a need for a new role, they send a request to HR/recruiting and get budget approval. From there, the role is posted on various hiring platforms, and HR/recruiting begins sorting through potential candidates. They weed out those who don't meet the job description requirements and start contacting the team lead with potential candidates.

If your portfolio makes an impact, you'll go through a three-step process: HR begins with a screening call for legalities and salary fit, then interviews with the leads and/or teams, and lastly, an interview with the department heads. If you pass all three stages, the team leads will discuss if you are the right candidate, and if selected, the request goes to director approval. If approved, HR will reach out to you and make an offer.

Behind the Scenes

Hiring takes time, and the team is very busy with daily responsibilities on the game. Hiring is just another log on the fire, and it has to get done, but they don’t really have time for it. In fact, each position has hundreds of applicants, and less than 2% of candidates get a callback. So don't take it personally if you don't hear back; it's just the nature of the industry. It is competitive and only one chosen player can prevail.

But if you do get a callback, be prepared for an Art Test. This isn't meant to insult you; it's just to ensure that studios are investing in the right staff. They legally can't give you usable production work for a test, but they do invest in you, so show off your best work and prove your worth!

Salary Ranges & Career Bands

Salary ranges exist for growth, and depending on what you come in at, it determines where you are in that range. The goal is to grow and progress up through the range, leading to promotions based on performance. Just remember that you won't start at the top range for any position.

The Wrap Up

If you're an aspiring video game artist looking to break into the gaming industry, understanding the hiring process is crucial. While it may seem daunting, remember that studios want to invest in the right staff, and with the right skills, experience, and personality, you could be the perfect candidate. So keep honing your craft, and who knows? You could be the next big name in game art!

Remember to check out chimirus.com for more information on how to break into the gaming industry and to find an art coach to help you along the way. Good luck!

Level up your game and land your dream job in the gaming industry with Chimirus coaching! Our experienced industry professionals will guide you through personalized coaching, offering you valuable insights, tips and tricks, and the inside scoop on how to stand out from the competition. So why wait? Book your discovery call now and let's power-up together!

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