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George Mason University

Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI)

🇺🇸 Hybrid - Manassas, VA

🕑 Full-Time

💰 TBD

💻 Project Management

🗓️ January 12th, 2026

Python

Edtech.com's Summary

The Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) is hiring a Project Developer. This role involves leading the design, development, and management of projects that support VSGI's research, incubator, and outreach initiatives using cutting-edge game development technologies. The Project Developer collaborates with faculty, external partners, and interdisciplinary teams while managing project timelines and delivering updates to diverse stakeholders.

Highlights
  • Designs and implements interactive digital experiences using Unity, Unreal Engine, and other technologies.
  • Develops scalable, efficient code for serious game applications and prototypes emerging technologies.
  • Leads project management including timeline creation, asset coordination, QA testing, and documentation.
  • Facilitates communication among VSGI staff, external partners, students, and university administration.
  • Prepares and presents project status reports to corporate partners, faculty, and government officials.
  • Represents VSGI at events and strategic meetings, acting as spokesperson when needed.
  • Requires minimum 3 years experience in game development, including Unity and Unreal Engine, with proficiency in C#, C++, and Python.
  • Experience with VR, AR, AI technologies, source control systems (e.g., Git), and grant-funded initiatives is essential.
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required; Master’s degree and 5+ years experience preferred.
  • Strong project management, communication, and team leadership skills necessary.

Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) Full Description

Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts
Classification: Info Technology Spec 1
Job Category: Classified Staff
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Manassas, VA
Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible

Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship
Pay Band: 04
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Restricted: Yes
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:The Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) exists to support Mason’s entrepreneurial and innovation goals by cultivating and supporting Mason-founded startups, rapid prototype development, high-value knowledge job creation, and regional economic development through serious game technology discovery to improve the human condition.
About the Position:The Project Developer at the Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) plays a pivotal role in supporting the ideation, creation, and management of projects that advance the institute's applied research, incubator, and outreach initiatives. This position requires a highly adaptable individual with strong technical expertise in game development and emerging technologies. The Project Developer leads and oversees both individual and team-based projects, ensuring alignment with VSGI's strategic goals and technological standards. This role also includes representing VSGI in various internal and external engagements.

Responsibilities:
Provides design, development, and coding expertise for VSGI projects and grant-funded initiatives.Designs and implements interactive digital experiences using Unity, Unreal, and other industry-standard engines;Writes and maintains scalable, efficient code for serious game applications;Collaborates with faculty and external partners to translate research into prototypes; andTroubleshoots cross-platform technical issues.Leads and manages VSGI research and start-up projects, including timelines, asset creation, and development workflows.Develops project plans with clear milestones and deliverables;Oversees asset creation and integration;Coordinates interdisciplinary teams;Documents decisions and project outcomes; andConducts QA testing and iterative improvements.Facilitates communication among VSGI staff, affiliated companies, students, university administration, and external stakeholders;Serves as liaison between technical and non-technical stakeholders;Leads regular meetings and collaborative sessions; andMentors student interns and junior developers.Delivers project updates and presentations to stakeholders, including corporate partners, faculty, administrators, and government officials.Prepares and presents reports on project status and impact;Tailors presentations to diverse audiences;Contributes to grant reporting and proposals; andRepresents VSGI at public events;Develops new resources and tools to support VSGI and affiliated programs when not directly engaged in project work.Researches and prototypes emerging technologies; andSupports curriculum development and outreach.Represents VSGI in meetings with clients, partners, and dignitaries, including in the absence of the Director.Acts as spokesperson for VSGI;Builds relationships with partners and agencies;Facilitates strategic discussions; andEnsures continuity of leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience;Experience (generally, minimum of 3 years) in game development, including Unity and Unreal Engine;Experience with VR, AR, and AI technologies;Familiarity with source control systems (e.g., Git);Knowledge of grant-funded initiatives;Strong project management and team coordination skills;Excellent communication and presentation abilities;Ability to work independently and collaboratively;Ability to adapt to emerging technologies and shifting project needs;Ability to investigate, adopt, and integrate new technologies as needed;Proven ability to lead development projects and ensure timely, scoped delivery;Proficiency in programming for game engines and related platforms;Proficiency in programming languages relevant to game development (e.g., C#, C++, Python); andStrong capacity to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:Master’s degree in related field;Experience (generally, 5+ years) in Computer Game Design Development;Experience in serious game development; andDemonstrated ability working with a diverse population of artists, faculty, staff, students, and community members.

Instructions to Applicants: For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Project Developer, Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and resume for review.

Posting Open Date:  January 9, 2026
For Full Consideration, Apply by:  January 24, 2026
Open Until Filled:  Yes