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3D Graphics Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OpenReq

Senior Full Stack Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... 3D graphics requirements. • Work closely with our product and engineering teams to define and achieve optimal solutions for 3D and 2D UI development challenges. • Stay abreast of the latest ...

Nvidia

Neural Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

... Graphics Engineer to grow with us. This is an opportunity to learn from some of the most ... generative 3D approaches Collaborate across teams to move ideas from concept to production ...

Nvidia

Neural Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$164K - $203K/yr

We reach millions of developers and creators through products like Alpasim, open platforms like ... Prototype neural rendering, differentiable graphics, and generative 3D approaches * Collaborate ...

NVIDIA Corporation

Neural Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$163K - $201K/yr

We reach millions of developers and creators through products like Alpasim, open platforms like ... Prototype neural rendering, differentiable graphics, and generative 3D approaches * Collaborate ...

Nvidia Corporation

Neural Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

We reach millions of developers and creators through products like Alpasim, open platforms like ... Prototype neural rendering, differentiable graphics, and generative 3D approaches * Collaborate ...

Moon

Engineering Manager, 3D Platform

Glendale, CA · On-site

Qualifications * 8+ years of engineering including leadership of 3D/graphics or real-time rendering teams. * Deep React Three Fiber and Three.js production experience; strong WebGL fundamentals.

Moon

Engineering Manager, 3D Platform

Glendale, CA · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

Qualifications • 8+ years of engineering including leadership of 3D/graphics or real-time rendering teams. • Deep React Three Fiber and Three.js production experience; strong WebGL fundamentals ...

Garmin Ltd.

Embedded Software Engineer 2

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$148K - $194K/yr

Overview We are seeking a full-time Embedded Software Engineer - 3D Graphics , for Garmin's Chandler, AZ location. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of aviation ...

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All Jobs3D Graphics Programmer Jobs3D Graphics Programmer Jobs in California

3D Graphics Programmer information

See California salary details

$109.1K

$133.2K

$154.5K

How much do 3d graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d graphics programmer in California is $133,232.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,400.00 and $143,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3d graphics programmer?

A 3D Graphics Programmer develops software and algorithms for rendering 3D visuals in applications like video games, simulations, and virtual reality. They work with graphics APIs such as DirectX and OpenGL, optimize performance, and implement visual effects. Their role requires strong programming skills in languages like C++ and knowledge of 3D mathematics.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a 3d graphics programmer?

A 3D Graphics Programmer typically spends their day writing and optimizing shaders, implementing rendering pipelines, troubleshooting graphics bugs, and collaborating with artists and designers to ensure visual fidelity aligns with creative vision. Tasks often include profiling and debugging rendering code, staying updated on industry advancements, and integrating new rendering techniques into the project. Teamwork and communication are essential, as you’ll work closely with other engineers and creative staff to ensure technical and artistic goals are met. Some roles may also involve documenting workflows and conducting code reviews to maintain high standards across the team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3d graphics programmer position, and why are they important?

Succeeding as a 3D Graphics Programmer requires strong proficiency in C++ or similar programming languages, a solid understanding of computer graphics concepts, and a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with graphics APIs like DirectX, OpenGL, or Vulkan, and experience with game engines such as Unreal or Unity are typically needed, while certifications in graphics programming can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for working both independently and collaboratively. These skills ensure the ability to develop optimized, visually impressive graphics solutions that meet project requirements and work smoothly across platforms.

Are 3D graphics programmers in demand?

3D graphics programmers are in high demand across industries such as gaming, film, virtual reality, and simulation, as these fields require advanced graphics rendering and real-time visualization. Skills in programming languages like C++ and knowledge of graphics APIs such as DirectX or OpenGL increase employability, and experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine is often preferred.

What is 3D graphics programming?

3D graphics programming involves creating and manipulating three-dimensional visual content using programming languages and graphics APIs like OpenGL or DirectX. It requires understanding of mathematical concepts such as vectors and matrices, as well as skills in coding, shading, and rendering techniques to develop realistic or stylized 3D visuals for games, simulations, or visualizations.

What are popular job titles related to 3D Graphics Programmer jobs in California?

For 3D Graphics Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3D Graphics Programmer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for 3D Graphics Programmer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for 3D Graphics Programmer jobs?

Cities in California with the most 3D Graphics Programmer job openings:

3D Graphics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Graphics Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,232 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer, ICX Graphics

Mountain View, CA • On-site

Waymo
Internet and IT • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Waymoexternal

$213K - $263K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Own the technical implementation of 3D visualization systems on onboard infotainment platforms.

  • Lead the design and implementation of the 3D rendering pipeline for the 3D Car View on Android-based systems.

  • Write high-quality, well-tested code, resolve rendering bugs, and optimize performance on onboard hardware.

Job description

Waymo is an autonomous driving technology company with the mission to be the world's most trusted driver. Since its start as the Google Self-Driving Car Project in 2009, Waymo has focused on building the Waymo Driver-The World's Most Experienced Driver™-to improve access to mobility while saving thousands of lives now lost to traffic crashes. The Waymo Driver powers Waymo's fully autonomous ride-hail service and can also be applied to a range of vehicle platforms and product use cases. The Waymo Driver has provided over ten million rider-only trips, enabled by its experience autonomously driving over 100 million miles on public roads and tens of billions in simulation across 15+ U.S. states.
The Waymo Passenger Experience team builds the real-time, in-car visualization systems that communicate the Waymo Driver's perception to our riders. We are focused on delivering high-fidelity, low-latency 3D renderings on our infotainment displays, ensuring passengers feel informed and confident throughout their journey.
In this hybrid role, you will report to an Engineering Manager.
You will:
  • Own the technical implementation of 3D visualization systems (EgoView) on onboard infotainment platforms, delivering fluid, high-performance visual experiences.
  • Lead the design and implementation of the 3D rendering pipeline for the 3D Car View on the Android-based in-car system using C++ and Kotlin via JNI.
  • Integrate next-generation visual assets for the new vehicle platform, optimize shader performance in the internal rendering engine to reduce GPU utilization, and implement new visual indicators for complex perception scenarios like construction zones.
  • Write high-quality, well-tested code, resolve complex rendering bugs, and optimize performance (frame rate, CPU/GPU, memory) on resource-constrained onboard hardware.
  • Collaborate closely with Product Managers and UX/UI designers to translate vehicle perception data into fluid animations and motion designs.

You have:
  • Graphics or game engine developer with strong experience in 3D graphics development using C++ and APIs like OpenGL ES or Vulkan.
  • Experience with mobile/embedded platforms, custom rendering engines, mobile game development, VR/AR, or high-performance Android graphics.
  • Solid foundation in 3D mathematics (linear algebra, coordinate spaces, transformations) and shader programming (GLSL).
  • 5+ years of total software development experience, with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent practical experience.
  • Strong sense of ownership and the ability to independently design, optimize, and implement complex software components.

We prefer:
  • Experience with Android graphics architecture (SurfaceFlinger, HWUI) and custom Android builds (AOSP).
  • Experience developing with Kotlin/Java and integrating with C++ via JNI.
  • Background in real-time visualization of perception data (e.g., point clouds, object detection) or game engine rendering.

The expected base salary range for this full-time position across US locations is listed below. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for the role location or, if the role can be performed remote, the specific salary range for your preferred location, during the hiring process.
Waymo employees are also eligible to participate in Waymo's discretionary annual bonus program, equity incentive plan, and generous Company benefits program, subject to eligibility requirements.
Salary Range
$213,000-$263,000 USD

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