- Training Video Game
In a constantly evolving sector, if there is one job that is essential to video games, it is that of lead programmer. Responsible for the technical development of the project they are working on, lead programmers play a key role in the creation of the video game they are responsible for, supervising, organizing, and coordinating the work of their team. To find out more about these responsibilities, the skills required to access this position, and the training programs that lead to it, check out our job description below.
Duties and roles of the lead programmer
In the world of video games, the lead programmer supervises teams of programmers through three main duties: overseeing development activities; managing program quality; and managing teams, their well-being, and their efficiency. Their role is therefore to adhere to strict specifications and a rigorous schedule, while ensuring a smooth and supportive working environment for their colleagues.
Skills and qualities required to be a lead programmer
As a team leader, the lead programmer must be proficient in the various programming languages and all the tools required to create and develop a video game. Beyond these technical skills, they must have a good analytical mind to detect pitfalls in the production process, anticipate obstacles, and propose innovative solutions based on their in-depth knowledge of the video game industry.
Managerial and interpersonal skills are just as important as the technical qualities of a lead programmer. They will be responsible for managing teams, with whom they will need to demonstrate teaching skills, rigor, and diplomacy in order to create a smooth development pipeline. The lead programmer is also the point of contact between the teams and other key positions in the production team, an activity that requires a significant investment, regular monitoring, and good stress resistance in production schedules that are often limited by time and budgets.
Tools and software used by the lead programmer
As a lead programmer, it is essential to master the various programming languages used today in the video game industry, from C# to C++, Java, and Python for the most common ones. These are languages that the lead programmer can use to work on the source code for the project they are responsible for using software such as GitHub, Fork, etc.
At the same time, advanced knowledge of game engines such as Unreal Engine and Unity is of course necessary to access these positions, which require solid professional experience. Skills in Blender and Audacity are also useful for manipulating 3D and audio assets provided by the rest of the production team.
Finally, as a project manager, the lead programmer would be well advised to develop their mastery of project management software such as Trello or Notion, ensuring effective and smooth team management.
Which high school diploma should you choose?
To become a lead programmer, the most logical option is undoubtedly to pursue a high school diploma with a technical profile, such as a diploma with a specialization in mathematics. Another interesting path is the Digital and Computer Science (NSI) diploma, which is a good starting point for developing your technical mastery of the tools you will later use in the professional world.
However, if you have not chosen these paths, keep in mind that there is more than one way to become a lead programmer, and that you can still get into this training program after completing a different high school diploma, either through self-study or by taking refresher courses in a preparatory program.
Training and degrees to become a lead programmer
To become a lead programmer and make your mark in the thriving and competitive video game industry, enrolling in a high-level video game training program is essential. It should give you a strategic vision of code architecture and strengthen both your technical expertise and your managerial skills. You will be required to lead teams of developers and liaise with game designers and artists. A comprehensive curriculum is therefore key to mastering the tools, optimizing production methods, and positioning yourself for roles of responsibility.
This program, combining theory and practice, culminates in the management of the development of a complete video game. This major project will test your ability to work in a team and take on the responsibilities of the position, forcing you to structure working methods for a team and prove your ability to deliver a project. This experience is an invaluable springboard to employment and is your best calling card for applying to different studios and drawing attention to your profile.
What is the salary of a lead programmer?
Average starting salary
At the beginning of their career, aspiring lead programmers can earn between $40,000 and $55,000 gross per year, a salary that varies depending on the company and the type of project they are working on.
Average salary for experienced programmers
With experience, and as they work on more complex projects, lead programmers can see their salary increase to between €55,000 and €75,000 gross per year, with exceptions exceeding €85,000 per year for AAA projects or very large-scale games with international reach.
This remuneration is also linked to the country of the company with which the lead programmer collaborates, as well as their status (contractual, employee, or freelance).
Career opportunities
Lead programmers mainly work in video game development companies. These studios can be of varying sizes and work independently or under the direction of a national or international publisher.
While lead programmers have a clear career path in the video game industry, their profile, experience, and knowledge also allow them to work in other sectors. After a few years as a lead programmer, they can move on to positions such as technical consultant, functional analyst, or even project manager on their own video games.
Sectors and companies that are hiring
While the video game industry is obviously the first place aspiring programmers will look, the development of video games as educational tools, serious gaming, and the gamification of user experiences now allow programmers to find work in many fields, from automotive to aeronautics, education, medicine, and even marketing and advertising. These opportunities may be less well-known, but they allow graduates to quickly integrate into the job market.
Which school should you choose to become a lead programmer?
To become a lead programmer, a school like ESMA is a wise choice. Through its video game training program (RNCP Level 6, Bac+3/4), students can discover the entire video game industry through a curriculum that combines theory and practice. The program culminates in the design of a video game as a team, under the same conditions as a studio. This experience is essential for entering the industry.
