Values Value was tasked with finding an experienced JavaScript Game Developer for our client, a developer of casual games for mobile, desktop, and browser platforms. This company specializes in creating both Premium and F2P games across genres such as farming, city builders, simulators, and time management. With a portfolio of over 50 games published on platforms like Steam, Apple Store, Google Play, and Amazon, they sought to add a key team member for a web city builder project.
Project: web city builder
Desired Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate would possess the following qualifications:
- Strong knowledge of JavaScript (ES6, OOP)
- Experience with Pixi.JS, Canvas, Phaser, or other JavaScript engines and libraries for Game Development
- Understanding of client-server architecture, SOLID principles, and design patterns
- Experience with game project development (including interfaces and effects)
- Proven background in developing browser-based games
- Experience integrating APIs for social networks, payments, and analytics systems
- Technical proficiency in English
- Familiarity with build tools (webpack)
- Basic skills in Photoshop
Challenges
Complex Test Assignment
One of the main hurdles in closing this vacancy was the extensive test assignment prepared by the hiring manager. Candidates estimated that it would take 30-40 hours to complete, leading some to immediately withdraw from the process. However, this test was necessary because there was no team lead in the department, and the plan was for two senior developers to work closely together and be as independent as possible. The specialist would report directly to the CTO, who didn’t have the time for in-depth mentoring. It was crucial for our client to be confident in the candidate’s skills, and the test assignment provided an effective way to evaluate this. We discussed with the hiring manager that if too many candidates dropped out due to the test, we could replace it with a different skill-check method, such as a one-day test task or a real-time test with a company representative present. Ultimately, this wasn’t needed as the candidate who accepted the offer successfully completed the test and was invited to join the company.
Impact of the War in Ukraine
Another challenge was the ongoing war in Ukraine. We were searching for a Ukrainian specialist for a Ukrainian company, and we encountered an issue: many candidates declined to consider job offers because they had military deferment status at their current jobs. Additionally, some candidates we reached out to were unable to pursue the opportunity as they were serving at the front lines.
What Helped to Fill the Position
Overall, while this wasn’t an exceptionally difficult vacancy, the specialist profile wasn’t the most common. However, we strategically approached the search to ensure a highly accurate match to the required skill set. We focused on selecting the right companies and projects where our ideal candidate would have worked, and in communication, we highlighted the most essential skills right from the start.
On the Values Value side, the process was managed by Anna Vashchenko, our Recruitment Lead & Partner, with sourcing support from Oleksandr Tsyrkunov. Both did a great job ensuring the process moved smoothly, despite the challenges.
