Jobs for gamers are more exciting than ever, offering opportunities to transform your gaming skills into a fulfilling career. Whether problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, reflexes, or quick decision-making, these talents can open doors to a wide range of positions—inside and outside the gaming industry.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into 15 exciting jobs for gamers and explore the key responsibilities and requirements for each. Plus, we’ll explain what it takes to land these positions and the salary range you can expect.
Let’s jump straight in!
Key Takeaways
- The gaming industry is rapidly expanding, with the number of users expected to reach 1.47 billion by 2027.
- Gamers can take advantage of many career paths outside the gaming industry, such as becoming voiceover artists or digital marketers.
- Many jobs for gamers don’t require formal education or certification, but skills like mechanic mastery, problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork are essential.
- Understanding jobs for gamers’ salary ranges helps you set realistic salary expectations and choose a career that aligns with your financial goals.
- There are plenty of remote jobs for gamers, making it easy to turn your love for gaming into a successful career.
Top 15 Jobs for Gamers to Pursue Right Now
Knowing what each job for gamers involves is the first and most crucial step to making an informed career decision. This understanding will help you apply your strengths where they’ll have the most significant impact.
So, let’s explore the 15 most exciting gamer jobs and guide you toward finding the right fit for your skill set.
#1. Illustrator
The illustrator role combines hand drawing and digital tools to breathe life into characters, objects, and environments. What makes it a great job for gamers is the familiarity with different art styles and the ability to visualize complex scenes and backgrounds.
Some of the key responsibilities include:
- Preparing design drafts according to previously set requirements
- Refining designs with illustration software
- Integrating colors, graphics, and effects to bring concepts to life
- Collaborating with clients, editors, and marketers
To become an illustrator, it’s advisable to have a degree in graphic design, fine arts, or a relevant field. Additionally, building a strong portfolio is a good way to stand out, as it shows off your unique style and skills.
Key requirements:
- Proficiency in using software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Figma
- Hands-on experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software
- Familiarity with 3D modeling tools (e.g., Blender or Maya)
- Strong drawing skills with attention to detail
Approximate yearly salary range: $79,000-$147,000
#2. Game Developer
Game developers are the brains behind the game’s mechanics and functionality. They are responsible for creating the game from start to finish, taking care of everything from programming to deployment. This is one of the most sought-after jobs for gamers, and it involves:
- Turning a game idea into code
- Constructing the engine on which the game will run
- Implementing audio and animation
- Collaborating with designers, writers, and testers
- Debugging and optimizing the code
Having a degree is helpful to get into this field, but you can still succeed even if you’re a self-taught developer. To achieve this, consider having a go at building your own games and joining game development communities.
Key requirements:
- Experience with C++ or other programming languages (Java, C, etc.)
- Proficiency in one or more programming areas, such as 3D modeling, Artificial Intelligence, 3D rendering, game physics, and audio
- Knowledge of game design principles and user experience (UX) design
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Games Technology
Approximate yearly salary range: $73,000-$137,000
#3. 3D Animator
3D animators in the gaming industry have the role of controlling character’s movement and behavior. Additionally, they are responsible for:
- Creating fluid and lifelike animations
- Using techniques like rigging, skinning, and motion capture
- Collaborating with developers, designers, and visual artists
- Ensuring the animations fit the game’s style and mechanics
To get this job for gamers, focus on mastering 3D animation software and understanding key animation principles like timing, weight, and motion dynamics. While a suitable degree or certification is useful, building a strong portfolio can also open doors to getting the position.
Key requirements:
- Portfolio with a strong understanding of animation techniques
- Proficiency in 3D animation software, such as Maya, 3DS Max, or Blender
- Understanding of animation principles
- Bachelor’s degree in fine arts, animation, or illustration
Approximate yearly salary range: $77,000-$136,000
#4. Voiceover Artist
Voiceover artists, or voice actors, are the individuals who provide the voices for your favorite game characters. The role requires following a ready script and bringing it to life, though sometimes improvisation is needed to capture the right emotion or personality.
Other responsibilities typically include:
- Taking direction from producers and directors to adjust to different styles
- Recording voiceovers in collaboration with sound engineers
- Rehearsing script to perfect the delivery before recording
You don’t need a formal education to get into this job for gamers, but some form of voice training or acting certification is beneficial. If you have a good ear for dialogue, character development, and a range of vocal tones, you’re off to a great start in this field.
Key requirements:
- Strong vocal range and acting skills
- Ability to adapt and improvise
- A demo reel that highlights your versatility
- Voice training or acting certification
Approximate yearly salary range: $49.950-$101,000
#5. Airline Pilot
If you want to pursue a career as a pilot, those hours spent playing SimCopter and Microsoft Flight Simulator could be worth it. Games like these help you develop sharp hand-eye coordination, quick decision-making skills, and a knack for multitasking—all of which are essential for the role.
But keep in mind that, unlike other jobs for gamers on this list, becoming an airline pilot is much more complex and requires extensive training and certification. Some of the essential responsibilities include:
- Developing flight plans to understand weather conditions, altitude, and aircraft performance
- Performing pre-flight and post-flight checks
- Communicating with air traffic control to ensure safety
- Analyzing potential risks throughout the flight
Key requirements:
- Commercial Pilot License and Airline Transport Pilot’s Licence
- Excellent knowledge of Federal Aviation regulations
- 20/20 vision
- Ability to react quickly to hazards
- Strong ability to stay calm under pressure
Approximate yearly salary range: $187,000-$364,000
#6. App Developer
App developers are responsible for designing and coding software programs and applications, performing testing, and maintaining technical documentation.
Other responsibilities include the following:
- Understanding client requirements and turning them into application features
- Collaborating with a team of IT professionals
- Designing creative prototypes according to certain specifications
- Updating existing apps by reprogramming and adding new features
Of all the careers on this list, this is one of the highest-paying IT jobs for gamers, offering impressive earning potential. To enter the app development field, having a Bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering is useful, but it’s not set in stone.
Increase your chances of landing the role by getting certified in game design and app development and focusing on learning a programming language.
Key requirements:
- Proficiency in at least one programming language, such as C#, Java, etc.
- Knowledge of programming for diverse operating systems and platforms
- Excellent understanding of software design and programming principles
Approximate yearly salary range: $107,000-$158,000
#7. Sound Designer
Creating the audio experience for video games is one of the most essential jobs for gamers. In this role, you’ll create the game’s soundtrack, including background music, ambient to character voices, and sound effects.
The beauty of this job for gamers is that you’re responsible for one of the most crucial aspects of a game that adds emotion and depth to the whole experience. You’ll also work on:
- Recording and editing sound effects
- Collaborating with game designers, developers, and other audio artists
- Testing audio within the game environment
To start your career as a sound designer, you’ll need a degree in audio engineering or sound design, along with experience using professional audio software.
Key requirements:
- Proficiency with audio software like Pro Tools, logic, and Sound Forge
- Knowledge of game audio integration tools like FMOD and Wwise
- Experience with game engines like Unreal or Unity
Approximate yearly salary range: $66,000-$123,000
#8. Game Tester
Game testing is one of the most accessible jobs for gamers looking to enter the IT industry. They have the fun task of playing through the game to locate bugs, glitches, and issues before its release. This role is often considered entry-level, so it’s an ideal job for gamers without a degree or in the process of acquiring one.
Many game tester roles come with on-the-job training, so they’re ideal opportunities if you’re looking to break into the field. But keep in mind that to succeed, you’ll need skills like a strong eye for detail, problem-solving, patience, and the ability to think like a player.
Your main responsibilities would include:
- Reporting issues like crashes, freezes, or broken mechanics
- Testing the game on different devices
- Checking if the game has all the features, levels, and functions
- Providing feedback and documenting the issues to help developers fix them
Key requirements:
- Passion for gaming
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Knowledge of bug-tracking software
- Strong teamwork and time management skills
Approximate yearly salary range: $38,000 – $41,500
#9. Video Game Writer
As a video game writer, you’ll develop the plot, character dialogue, quests, and any in-game scripts. You’ll work closely with developers and designers to ensure the storyline integrates seamlessly into the gameplay. Other tasks you would be expected to complete include:
- Editing and revising dialogue based on feedback
- Writing in-game tutorials or guides
- Conducting research to ensure the themes, settings, and dialogue are authentic
To pursue this job for gamers, a certificate or course in creative writing is not a must-have, but it is a nice bonus. A good starting point is having a go at visual novel video games or reaching out to indie game developers to build up a portfolio.
Key requirements:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent narrative and dialog writing skills
- Strong ability to collaborate and thrive in a creative team
- A passion for games and crafting compelling stories
Approximate yearly salary range: $51,000 – $88,000
#10. Video Game Streamer
Game streaming is a career that offers the flexibility to work from virtually anywhere, making it a very popular remote job for gamers.
Streamers broadcast their gameplay on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, providing commentary and interacting with viewers in real time. In addition to streaming, key tasks for this role are:
- Creating game-related content across different platforms
- Networking with other streamers
- Building an online community
To become a video game streamer, you’ll need strong communication skills, great insight into video game culture and trends, and basic knowledge of social media marketing.
Key requirements:
- Strong gameplay skills
- Basic tech skills to troubleshoot issues as they come
- Ability to handle criticism professionally
- Time management and maintaining a consistent gaming schedule
- Ability to provide creative and engaging commentary
Approximate yearly salary range: $60,000 – $360,000
How much a gamer makes depends on the number of viewers, so the yearly salary range for streamers will vary.
#11. Digital Marketer
As a digital marketer in the gaming industry, you’ll be responsible for executing strategies to promote gaming products or services. The goal is to increase brand awareness and drive traffic to your website or online store.
One of the key aspects of the digital marketing role is analyzing data and gaining insights into customer behavior and demographics. This allows you to personalize your campaigns for maximum impact.
You’ll also take on:
- Creating content for blogs, social media, or email campaigns
- Managing paid advertisements using tools like Google Ads
- Analyzing campaign metrics to adjust and improve accordingly
- Collaborating with influencers
To kickstart your career as a digital marketer, you’ll need a marketing degree along with a strong knowledge of gaming trends and digital tools.
Key requirements:
- Knowledge of digital marketing tools
- Strong communication and content creation skills
- Ability to analyze data and optimize campaigns
- Knowledge of SEO and content strategy
Approximate yearly salary range: $62,000-$16,000
#12. Product Manager
Product managers are involved in the game’s development, launch, and post-launch phases. If you choose to pursue this career, you’ll be responsible for ensuring the product meets market demand, delivers a great user experience, and achieves business goals.
Additional responsibilities include the following:
- Collaborating with various teams, including developers, designers, and marketers
- Defining product goals and aligning them with market trends
- Managing timelines, budgets, and project milestones
- Gathering user feedback and improving products/services accordingly
To become a gaming product manager, you’ll typically need a degree in marketing, game development, or a related field.
Key requirements:
- Familiarity with agile development methodologies
- Understanding the gaming market and staying on top of industry trends
- Ability to analyze data and user feedback
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong leadership skills
Approximate yearly salary range: $195,000 – $320,000
#13. Community Manager
This video gamer job involves keeping the gaming community alive and thriving. You’ll manage online forums and social media platforms, set up live streams, attend events, and directly interact with players.
Additionally, you’ll be responsible for:
- Educating the community about updates or patches
- Gathering player feedback and presenting it to the development team
- Collaborating with influencers and content creators
- Tracking community metrics and reporting on engagement, trends, and areas for improvement
To get your foot in the door as a community manager, you can benefit from having a marketing degree, though it’s not always required. Having a passion for gaming, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of community management tools are enough for an entry-level position.
Key requirements:
- Knowledge of community platforms like Discord, Instagram, Reddit, or Facebook
- Strong writing and communication skills
- Basic data analysis
- Deep understanding of the gaming industry
Approximate yearly salary range: $57,000-$96,000
#14. Esports Coach
The esports coaching career involves guiding and managing a team of players to carry them to victory in competitive tournaments. You’ll be responsible for creating the best gameplay strategy, analyzing the opponent’s tactics, and implementing that knowledge to improve your team’s performance. Other tasks involve:
- Training players on mechanics and gameplay
- Keeping up with the latest gaming updates and competitive trends
- Regularly performing gameplay reviews to identify strengths and weaknesses
- Managing players’ schedules and overall team logistics
To get a career as an esports coach, you’ll need to have proven experience as a high-level player or coach in the game you want to teach. Keep in mind that some games, such as League of Legends or Rocket League, might even require certifications or licenses.
Key requirements:
- Extensive knowledge of the game you want to coach
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- Analytical skills
- Understanding of player psychology
Approximate yearly salary range: $61,000 – $151,000
#15. Professional Gamer
Professional gamers are the ones who bring their gaming passion to life and turn it into a full-time career. The job involves participating in gaming competitions, either individually or as a part of a team, practicing regularly, and analyzing gameplay for strategic improvement.
Many professional gamers also stream their gameplay on platforms like Twitch and YouTube so they can interact with their audience, build an online presence, and attract sponsorships.
The role also consists of:
- Networking with sponsors and other professional gamers
- Attending live events and gaming conventions
- Creating social media content
You don’t need any prior education or certification to become a professional gamer. Focus on mastering the games you want to compete in and dedicate time to hone your gaming skills.
Key requirements:
- Exceptional gaming skills and reflexes
- Strong knowledge of the game mechanics and strategy
- Proficiency in streaming and engaging with audiences
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Mental focus and resilience under pressure
Approximate yearly salary range: $80,000-$149,000
Final Thoughts
The gaming world is rapidly evolving, and the demand for gamer-related roles continues to grow. In fact, the number of users in the video game market is expected to reach 1.47 billion worldwide by 2027, according to Statista.
Luckily, despite the increasing demand, many jobs for gamers are available. Whether you’re passionate about game development, 3D animation, or working behind the scenes as a digital marketer, you’ll be able to find a role that suits your interests and strengths.
Remember, it’s crucial to constantly improve and develop your skills to stay competitive and secure a long-term career in this dynamic field.
