1

3D Graphics Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... Engineer to join our new studio in sunny Irvine California. The ideal candidate will have a strong ... Excellent 3D math skills * Deep understanding of modern rendering techniques, graphics hardware and ...

... Engineer to join our new studio in sunny Irvine California. The ideal candidate will have a strong ... Excellent 3D math skills * Deep understanding of modern rendering techniques, graphics hardware and ...

Sr. Software Engineer - 3D Workflows

San Jose, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Experience with 3D graphics production at scale. PhotorealisticVFXproduction ... Experience programming in languageand frameworkssuitedforbrowser-baseddevelopment:TypeScript ...

Sr. Software Engineer - 3D Workflows

San Jose, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Experience with 3D graphics production at scale. PhotorealisticVFXproduction ... Experience programming in languageand frameworkssuitedforbrowser-baseddevelopment:TypeScript ...

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Novato, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $174K/yr

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge ... Strong grasp of 3D math concepts and applications * Deep understanding of optimization techniques ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

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 Jun 10, 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 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.

What is a 3D Graphics Programmer job?

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 most commonly searched types of 3D Graphics Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of 3D Graphics Programmer jobs in California are:
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:
Infographic showing various 3D Graphics Programmer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,232 per year, or $64.1 per hour.
Sr. C++Software Development Engineer - ArcGIS Pro 3D Analysis

Sr. C++Software Development Engineer - ArcGIS Pro 3D Analysis

Esri

Redlands, CA

$123K - $162K/yr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Overview

Bring your 2D/3D programming expertise to a team that's building tools with real-world impact. We're enhancing the 3D analytic capabilities of ArcGIS, the world's leading geospatial platform, and we're looking for developers who are passionate about writing clean, efficient code and solving complex spatial challenges.

In this role, you'll contribute to a modular, high-performance codebase that supports advanced 3D visualization and analysis for professionals across industries-including urban planning, architecture, and engineering. You'll design and implement robust data structures, apply advanced algorithms, and help shape a platform used by millions worldwide.

We value strong problem-solving skills, a collaborative mindset, and a commitment to continuous learning. If you're excited about building scalable software that makes a difference, we'd love to connect with you.

Check out what this team is working on: https://www.esri.com/en-us/arcgis/products/arcgis-3d-analyst/overview

Responsibilities

  • Build C++ software components that follow industry-standard design patterns, development methodologies, and deployment models
  • Work closely with product engineers to implement requirements and create application architectures and API to meet product goals
  • Create solutions for spatial data access and management of large datasets that are stored in a spatial database or file system
  • Design and develop stable software that includes automated test validation
  • Develop reusable components and libraries for use internally and as open source
  • Work within agile processes for short cycle, fast-paced delivery
  • Drive high-impact initiatives that challenge conventional boundaries and deliver breakthrough results
  • Solve and articulate complex problems through application design, development, and exemplary user experiences

Requirements

  • 5+ years of experience working with Modern C++
  • Experience with 3D graphics APIs such as WebGPU, OpenGL, or DirectX
  • Understanding of algorithms, data structures, and design patterns
  • Strong math skills and expertise in computational geometry, topology, and data modeling for terrain and surface analysis
  • Experience working with large datasets of vector and terrain/lidar data as well as data structures for storing, manipulating, and visualizing 3D data
  • Experience with workflow computing, for example UI programming, scripting, and test authoring
  • Knowledge of Agile development methodologies and test-driven development processes
  • Prior experience with the development and release of commercial software
  • Excellent problem-solving, design, development, and debugging skills
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, GIS, or related field

Recommended Qualifications

  • Knowledge of parallel, multi-core, and distributed programming techniques including heterogeneous multi-core environments (GPUs + CPUs, CUDA)
  • Experience building file-based solutions and/or with databases and data access technologies
  • Experience with application scripting languages (such as Python, JavaScript) and web protocols and formats such as REST and JSON
  • Experience developing software that runs in a cloud
  • Familiarity with ArcGIS or other web mapping technologies
  • Master's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, GIS, or related field

#LI-RC2

#LI-Onsite


ESRI logo

About ESRI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our passion for improving quality of life through geography is at the heart of everything we do. Esri's geographic information system (GIS) technology inspires and enables governments, universities, and businesses worldwide to save money, lives, and our environment through a deeper understanding of the changing world around them.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Redlands, CA, US

Year founded

1969