Simulation and Game Programmer: Entry Level Salary for a Simulation and Game Programming Professional

Published Aug 12, 2009

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For most of us, work is not all fun and games; however, it can be for a Simulation and Game Programming professional. One of the main perks of this job is the level of pay you can expect, even when starting out. If you are looking to start a career in this field, then stick with this article for entry-level salary information in the world of Simulation and Game Programming.

Simulation and Game Programming Career Summary

A professional in Simulation and Game Programming designs and creates video games. This job calls for integrating computer graphics knowledge with animation and modeling skills to create realistic images for electronic games. Programmers can work for a video game production company, software development company, computer design firm or digital publishing company. In some cases, they may choose to work independently. Many who enter this field choose to obtain at least a bachelor's degree. This degree is typically earned in Simulation and Game Programming, computer graphics, software engineering or computer animation.

Simulation and Game Programming Career Outlook and Salary Information

Based on the most recent information available from many gaming industry sources, the typical entry-level salary for a Simulation and Game Programming professional is around $50,000. PayScale.com reports the starting salary for this career to be between $40,000 and $50,000. Junior programmers with less than one year's experience can expect to make $55,000, according to the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), www.igda.org. However, the entry-level salary for a Simulation and Game Programming professional varies from one company to another. In the gaming industry, involvement in the development of a successful video game can have an impact on salary. Job growth for computer graphic designers with Simulation and Game Programming skills is expected to be ten percent between 2006 and 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov. Game programmers can eventually go on to become lead programmers, production supervisors or video game technical directors.

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