Who can be producer?

Producer is a responsible, managerial job. The producer keeps track of the project, guides and manages the team, and keeps communication flowing inside and outside of the game team.


In most studios, the Producer role will have the authority to make decisions that will affect the game and the team. It is also a jump-off board to Studio leadership positions in the future. That's one of the reasons why the Producer role is sought after.


But, it is very rare that Producers are hired without previous experience. Because of the responsibility of the role, most studios are looking to hire someone who already worked as a producer before, on similar games and the same gaming platforms.


So, how to get a job as a Producer?

PRODUCTION CAREER PATH

Production jobs come in different levels. Bigger studios will have dedicated paths for employees who are interested in becoming Producers.


Entry level job for Production is Associate Producer or Junior Producer. In that role, you don't need to have previous production experience, but some previous gaming industry experience is always beneficial.


In the Junior Producer role, you will get a chance to learn how Production works in bigger teams and develop your producer skillset.

PRODUCTION PATH THROUGH OTHER DISCIPLINES

This is the most common way to get into production. Usually, you start working in other disciplines and then transition to Production.

You can transition to Production from any discipline, but most frequently, we see the career pathway from QA (quality assurance) and Game or Level Design. These disciplines relate most closely to Production and create an easy transition from one role to another. Both of these disciplines involve good knowledge of the overall game development process, production timelines, and how other disciplines function, which is a great foundation for the Production role.


Of course, Producers can also come from Player Support, game developers, and artists.

Transitioning into production

• Things to keep in mind when you switch from your previous discipline to production:
• It is important to leave your old career behind. As a producer, you shouldn't think as a QA or game design person anymore. You should not insist on fixing every bug or avoid cutting off features if the project demands so. Working that way, you can be successful in your new role.
• You might know a lot already, but there is still lots to learn. Make sure that you keep on learning and developing your skills, especially when it comes to leading and managing people.
• While it's difficult to be fully objective, try your best and have an open mind when you are in a position to resolve conflicts in the team that involve your previous discipline. Of course, we will always have a deeper understanding of our own discipline, but that doesn't mean we should take sides or have preferences.
• In the crunch time, it might be tempting to help your previous disciplines, as you still have those skills. Resist the urge, because now your job is different. If needed, get temporary or outsourced resources to help out in busy times.