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3D Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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2D/3D Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Geomatics, Physics, or a related field. * Experience with 2D/3D data analysis, including point cloud processing and image annotation.

Convergix Automation

Emulate 3D Engineer

Bridgman, MI · On-site

Emulate 3D Engineer Bridgman, Michigan, United States We are seeking talented and energetic individuals to join our growing team! Greatness takes continuous evolution. That's why we're bringing ...

Prisms VR

3D Artist (Remote)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$110K - $140K/yr

Prisms VR is a San Francisco-based team of educators, game developers, and engineers transforming ... As a 3D Artist, you will craft characters, environments, and educational 3D motion graphic ...

M&S Consulting

3D Animator

Pasadena, CA · On-site +1

Job Responsibilities: The 3D Animator will create high-fidelity, cinematic animations that ... Translate complex engineering or scientific concepts into clear visual narratives * Iterate ...

Zachry Group

Sr Designer Civil 3D

Houston, TX · On-site

Zachry Engineering Corporation (ZEC) is currently looking for a talented and self-motivated Senior ... The ideal candidate will produce engineering drawings and 3D design models of grading, drainage ...

M&S Consulting

3D Animator

Pasadena, CA · Remote

Job Responsibilities: The 3D Animator will create high-fidelity, cinematic animations that ... Translate complex engineering or scientific concepts into clear visual narratives * Iterate ...

Enercon Services, Inc.

Smart 3D Designer

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$65K - $130K/yr

By collaborating with engineers, mentoring others, and ensuring the highest standards of quality ... Develop creative, high-precision 3D models and detailed engineering drawings for facility layouts ...

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3D Programmer information

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$12

$39

$68

How much do 3d programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d programmer in the United States is $39.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between 3D Programmer vs 3D Artist?

Aspect3D Programmer3D Artist
Primary FocusWriting code for 3D graphics, tools, and enginesCreating visual 3D models, textures, and animations
Skills RequiredProgramming languages (C++, Python), math, graphics APIsArt skills, 3D modeling software, creativity
Work EnvironmentGame studios, software companies, simulation firmsGame studios, animation houses, visual effects companies
CertificationsComputer science, software development, graphics programmingArt, design, 3D modeling certifications

While both roles work within the 3D industry, 3D Programmers focus on coding and technical development of 3D systems, whereas 3D Artists concentrate on creating visual content. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is a 3D Programmer?

A 3D Programmer is a software developer who specializes in creating and implementing three-dimensional graphics within computer programs, often for video games, simulations, or visual effects. They work with graphics engines, write code to render objects and environments in 3D, and optimize the performance and realism of virtual worlds. 3D Programmers collaborate closely with artists and designers to bring creative visions to life through technical solutions. Their responsibilities may include developing shaders, handling physics interactions, and ensuring visual fidelity across different platforms.

How does a 3D Programmer typically collaborate with artists and designers during game development?

A 3D Programmer works closely with artists and designers to ensure their creative visions are accurately realized in the game engine. This involves integrating 3D assets, optimizing models for performance, and implementing visual effects or shaders. Regular meetings and feedback sessions are common, where programmers help troubleshoot technical issues and suggest workflow improvements. Effective communication and a collaborative mindset are essential, as this role bridges the gap between technical implementation and artistic intent.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D Programmer, and why are they important?

To excel as a 3D Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages like C++ or C#, a solid understanding of computer graphics principles, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with 3D engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, experience with APIs like OpenGL or DirectX, and sometimes shader programming and mathematics are crucial. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. Mastery of these skills ensures you can create efficient, visually impressive 3D applications and collaborate well within multidisciplinary development teams.
More about 3D Programmer jobs
What states have the most 3D Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for 3D Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 3D Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Programmer jobs are:
3D Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Lead Unreal 4 programmer - Virtual Reality

Immersive Entertainment

Irvine, CA

Contractor

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Description

We create next-generation Virtual Reality Content that represents a new form of entertainment. We bridge the gap between video games and movies, providing a level of immersion, emotional engagement and realism never before seen.

Job Description
  • Be the in-house expert on the Unreal Engine 4 including blueprints.
  • Implement practical and timely solutions that meet the game design and technical requirements.
  • Implement code /blueprints that is modular self-contained and defensive and observes the technical constraints on the system.
  • Work closely together with the CCO.
  • Ensure coding standards are followed and help to enforce good programming practices within the engineering team.
  • Maintain technical documentation for the engineering team as well as other disciplines.
  • Optimise code and data for memory usage and performance as required.
  • Keep abreast of new advances in virtual reality hardware, rendering technology and algorithms.
  • Sharing knowledge and techniques across the studio
  • Mentoring programmers 
Qualifications
  •  5+ years of experience in game development
  • Expert knowledge of working with UDK, Unreal Engine 3, Unreal Engine 4.
  • Excellent Unreal Engine blueprint skills.
  • Excellent C/C++ programming skills with good knowledge of object oriented development.
  • Expert knowledge of mathematics ability and a familiarity with common 3d graphics principles and rendering algorithms.
  • Expert knowledge Good working knowledge of current GPU architecture and rendering APIs experience with DirectX 11 /12 
  • Experience with commonly used development tools such as Visual Studio and Perforce.
  • Solid commercial software development experience with significant involvement in 1 published AAA game in a 3d environment
  • Knowledge of common algorithms data structures and patterns and the ability to apply them to problems while keeping constraints and performance in mind.
  • Able to analyse unfamiliar code of a reasonable complexity to understand and extend the functionality of an existing module.
  • Proven ability to debug defects of a reasonable complexity.
  • Good eye for details
  • English language
  • A strong team player and leader by example
Additional Information

Pluses

  • Shipped AAA PC or console titles as a Senior 3D Programmer
  • Work experience with Unreal Engine 4
  • Understanding the difference between developing for VR compared to traditional game development.
  • A passion for developing and playing virtual reality experiences


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