1

3D Vulkan Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OpenXR App Developer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$48 - $50/hr

Scene/interaction systems (grabbing, ray interactions, UI in 3D) * Rendering and performance ... Custom/native OpenXR rendering with Vulkan/OpenGL/DirectX * Understanding of rendering/perf ...

3D Graphics Advanced Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA · Hybrid

$153.10K - $189.10K/yr

What we need We are seeking a MidLevel 3D Graphics Software Engineer to play a key role in ... Handson experience with at least one graphics or rendering API (OpenGL, Vulkan, DirectX, Metal, or ...

Software Engineer: Graphics - IV

$143.30K - $177.10K/yr

... 3D application using a modern graphics API (Vulkan, DX12) • Excellent programming skills (C++17) • Solid understanding of git, CMake and CI/CD driven development • Fluent written and spoken ...

3D Graphics Advanced Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$153.10K - $189.10K/yr

What we need We are seeking a Mid-Level 3D Graphics Software Engineer to play a key role in ... Hands-on experience with at least one graphics or rendering API (OpenGL, Vulkan, DirectX, Metal, or ...

Key Responsibilities: 3D Reconstruction & Visualization Integration * Point cloud reconstruction ... OpenGL, Direct3D, Vulkan or Metal * Experience integrating OpenGL/Vulkan with C# via OpenTK, Silk.

next page

Showing results 1-20

3D Vulkan Developer information

See salary details

$77.5K

$154.1K

$228.5K

How much do 3d vulkan developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d vulkan developer in the United States is $154,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,500.00 and $176,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a 3D Vulkan Developer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, graphics pipeline concepts, and a deep understanding of the Vulkan API, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with GPU debugging tools, shader programming languages like GLSL or SPIR-V, and version control systems such as Git is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork set standout developers apart in this role. These skills ensure high-performance rendering solutions, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex graphics projects.

What are some common challenges faced by 3D Vulkan Developers when optimizing graphics performance?

3D Vulkan Developers often encounter challenges related to efficiently managing GPU resources and minimizing CPU overhead, as Vulkan provides more direct control over hardware compared to older graphics APIs. Developers must carefully design their rendering pipelines, handle synchronization, and optimize memory usage to avoid bottlenecks. Additionally, debugging and profiling Vulkan applications can be complex due to the explicit nature of the API, making thorough testing and performance analysis crucial parts of the job.

What is a 3D Vulkan Developer?

A 3D Vulkan Developer is a software engineer who specializes in creating graphics applications and rendering engines using the Vulkan API. Vulkan is a low-level, cross-platform graphics and compute API that gives developers more direct control over GPU hardware and more efficient multithreading than older APIs like OpenGL. 3D Vulkan Developers often work on game engines, simulation software, or other high-performance graphics applications where optimal rendering performance and resource management are critical. They need strong knowledge of computer graphics concepts, C/C++ programming, and experience with shader development. Their work enables visually rich and efficient 3D graphics experiences on a variety of devices.

What is the difference between 3D Vulkan Developer vs 3D OpenGL Developer?

Aspect3D Vulkan Developer3D OpenGL Developer
Required CredentialsProficiency in Vulkan API, programming skills in C/C++, graphics programming experienceKnowledge of OpenGL API, similar programming skills, graphics experience
Work EnvironmentGame development, real-time rendering, high-performance graphics applicationsGraphics applications, CAD, visualization, game engines
Industry UsageEmerging in high-performance and cross-platform projectsWidely used in legacy systems and existing projects

The main difference between a 3D Vulkan Developer and a 3D OpenGL Developer lies in the graphics API they specialize in. Vulkan offers lower-level access for better performance and cross-platform capabilities, while OpenGL is more mature and easier to learn. Both roles require similar credentials and are used in graphics-intensive industries, but Vulkan developers are often involved in cutting-edge, high-performance projects.

More about 3D Vulkan Developer jobs
Infographic showing various 3D Vulkan Developer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $154,062 per year, or $74.1 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer - 3D Graphics

Embedded Software Engineer - 3D Graphics

Garmin International, Inc.

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$127.80K - $168.20K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 137 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

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 technology and explore the forefront of real-time rendering and graphics technologies that fly in the sky. The work involves designing, developing, testing, and maintaining graphics technologies integral to Garmin avionics products. The focus will be on full-stack development, testing, and optimization of applications utilizing OpenGL and Vulkan APIs on multi-threaded platforms.
Essential Functions
  • Creates and executes designs for small sets of new functionalities as part of a software project using C, OpenGL and Vulkan APIs on multi-threaded platforms.
  • Utilizes software engineering tools such as configuration management systems, build processes, and debuggers in the software development process
  • May perform as a technical leader or Lead Software Engineer for derivative software project
  • Collaborates and adds value through participation in peer code reviews, providing comments and suggestions
  • Provides reliable solutions to a variety of problems using sound problem solving techniques
  • Performs technical root cause analysis and outlines corrective action for given problems
  • Contributes to technical research on new technologies
  • Estimates level of effort, evaluates new options of similar technology, offers suggestions to improve processes, and provides feedback on some electrical design aspects
  • Serves as a mentor to less experienced software engineers (Software Engineer 1)

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Math, Physics or related field AND a minimum of 1 year relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
  • Demonstrated proficiency and experience necessary to develop moderately complex software in C, C++, or other selected languages
  • Proficient knowledge, utilization and mastery of relevant software engineering tools (configuration management systems, build processes, debuggers, emulators, simulators and logic analyzers)

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience developing 2D/3D user applications is nice to have
  • Experience with 2D/3D graphics APIs (OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal), rendering technologies are a plus
  • Experience with profiling and debugging tools for GPUs and embedded systems

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

What Garmin employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom