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Computer Graphics Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

Figure

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

San Jose, CA

$150K - $275K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or a related field. * At least 7 years of industry experience in graphics or UI engineering. * Expert-level proficiency in Qt and ...

Figure

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or a related field. * At least 7 years of industry experience in graphics or UI engineering. * Expert-level proficiency in Qt and ...

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How much do computer graphics jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer graphics in Santa Cruz, CA is $24.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer graphics job?

A Computer Graphics job involves creating, designing, and manipulating visual content using software and algorithms. Professionals in this field work in industries such as gaming, film, virtual reality, and simulation. Responsibilities may include 3D modeling, rendering, animation, and visual effects. Strong skills in mathematics, programming, and creative design are essential. Common tools include software like Blender, Maya, and Adobe Creative Suite.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in computer graphics?

Professionals in Computer Graphics typically spend their days creating and refining visual assets, collaborating with team members such as designers, animators, and developers, and troubleshooting technical issues related to rendering or modeling. They may also participate in team meetings to align on project goals, incorporate feedback, and ensure visual consistency throughout the project. Daily tasks often involve using specialized software, optimizing graphics for performance, and staying updated on the latest industry trends. This dynamic structure provides opportunities to learn new techniques and contribute creative solutions that enhance the final product.

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

To excel in Computer Graphics, you need a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and visual design, often supported by a degree in a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, Blender, and programming languages like C++ or GLSL is highly valued, and professional certifications can enhance credibility. Creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork are essential soft skills that drive innovation and effective project collaboration. Mastering these skills ensures you can create compelling visual content, adapt to evolving technologies, and contribute to diverse projects across industries.

How much do computer graphics artists make?

Computer graphics artists typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced artists working in specialized fields or with advanced skills in software like Maya or Adobe Creative Suite can earn higher salaries.

What careers use computer graphics?

Computer graphics are used in careers such as video game design, animation, visual effects for film and television, graphic design, and virtual reality development. Professionals in these fields often work with tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, or Blender and require skills in 3D modeling, rendering, and digital illustration.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Graphics jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

For Computer Graphics jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Graphics jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Graphics jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Computer Graphics jobs?

Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Computer Graphics job openings:

Computer Graphics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Graphics job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,805 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

Figure

San Jose, CA

$150K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, implement, and optimize the graphics rendering stack for robot head displays, from low-level GPU pipeline to high-level UI components.

  • Build and maintain Qt/QML-based applications targeting embedded Linux systems with strict CPU, GPU, and memory constraints.

  • Profile and optimize rendering performance on resource-constrained embedded hardware, targeting consistent frame rates with minimal power draw.

Job description

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.

We are looking for a Senior/Staff Graphics Software Engineer to join the Platform Software team and own the graphics stack powering our robot's displays. You will build the rendering engine and UI framework that brings Figure's humanoid to life - crafting fluid, expressive interfaces that make every human-robot interaction feel natural and engaging. You will work closely with the Head of HMI to translate creative vision into pixel-perfect, high-performance reality on embedded hardware.

Responsibilities: 

  • Design, implement, and optimize the graphics rendering stack for robot head displays, from low-level GPU pipeline to high-level UI components.
  • Build and maintain Qt/QML-based applications targeting embedded Linux systems with strict CPU, GPU, and memory constraints.
  • Develop and tune shaders for real-time vector graphics, animations, and visual effects.
  • Implement and optimize Vulkan and OpenGL ES rendering pipelines to achieve smooth, high-framerate output.
  • Collaborate closely with the Design team and Head of HMI to implement and iterate on UI/UX designs, ensuring fidelity and responsiveness.
  • Profile and optimize rendering performance on resource-constrained embedded hardware, targeting consistent frame rates with minimal power draw.
  • Integrate graphics components into the broader Robot Platform software stack, working with middleware and embedded systems engineers.
  • Establish best practices for graphics development, testing, and CI integration within the platform team

Requirements: 

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or a related field.
  • At least 7 years of industry experience in graphics or UI engineering.
  • Expert-level proficiency in Qt and QML, including custom rendering and performance optimization.
  • Deep hands-on experience with Vulkan and OpenGL ES - including shader authoring (GLSL/SPIR-V) and render pipeline design.
  • Strong experience with vector graphics rendering and animation..
  • Proven track record developing on embedded or resource-constrained systems (limited RAM, GPU, thermal envelope).
  • Solid C++ skills and familiarity with Linux userspace development.
  • Strong cross-functional communication skills - comfortable working directly with designers and translating visual specs into technical implementations.

Bonus Qualifications: 

  • Hands-on experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
  • Experience with scene graph architectures or retained-mode rendering frameworks.
  • Experience with SVG or other vector graphics formats and their GPU-accelerated rendering.
  •  Knowledge of display hardware interfaces (MIPI DSI, HDMI) and display driver integration on embedded Linux.
  • Experience with EGLFS/DRM/KMS display backends.
  • Background in HMI or human-robot interaction design.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 - $275,000 annually.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended. 

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