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Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer Jobs in San Diego, CA

Engineer, Senior - Job ID: 8425

San Diego, CA · On-site

$148K - $183K/yr

Principal Duties and Responsibilities: • Applies Graphics knowledge and experience to architect ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or ...

Engineer, Senior|12519

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

... Graphics Programming - Strong experience with Vulkan render pipelines, compute shaders ... Bachelor's degree in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical ...

Drafter/CAD Operator II

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$26.92 - $29.33/hr

Technical School degree in Drafting, Illustrating or Graphic Arts. Minimum Years of Experience * 3 years of professional experience preparing detailed engineering drawings using CAD tools and ...

Senior GPU Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

... graphics (e.g., C++, C). Preferred Qualifications: • Master's Degree in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field ...

Digitizer 2026

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... programming, and marketing. Requirements * Note: Neither embroidery nor embroidery digitizing experience is required. * 2+ years of computer graphics design experience. * Proficiency in Adobe ...

GPU Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$98K - $148K/yr

... graphics (e.g., C++, C). Preferred Qualifications: • Master's Degree in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field ...

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Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$15

$28

$83

How much do entry level computer graphics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level computer graphics programmer in San Diego, CA is $28.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer do?

An Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer creates and implements code to generate visual elements in software applications, such as video games, simulations, or design tools. They work with graphics APIs like OpenGL or DirectX to render images, animations, and visual effects. Their responsibilities may include optimizing graphics performance, debugging visual issues, and collaborating with artists and other developers to achieve desired visual outcomes. This role is ideal for those with a background in computer science and a passion for visual computing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer, you need a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals, mathematics (especially linear algebra), and programming languages such as C++ or Python, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with graphics APIs like OpenGL or DirectX, shader programming, and tools such as Unity or Unreal Engine is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork skills help you stand out in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing efficient, visually compelling graphics solutions and collaborating on complex projects within the industry.

What types of projects and technologies can an Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer, you’ll typically start by assisting with the implementation of rendering features, debugging graphics code, and developing small components for larger visual systems. Expect to work with technologies such as OpenGL, DirectX, or Vulkan, alongside shader languages like GLSL or HLSL. You may collaborate closely with artists and senior developers to bring visual concepts to life, learning best practices for optimizing real-time graphics. This role often involves frequent code reviews, documentation, and rapid prototyping, helping you build a strong foundation for more advanced graphics programming tasks in the future.

What is the difference between Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer vs Entry Level Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Computer Graphics ProgrammerEntry Level Software Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or related field; knowledge of graphics APIs (OpenGL, DirectX)Bachelor's in Computer Science or related; programming skills in multiple languages
Work EnvironmentGame studios, simulation companies, visual effects firmsTech companies, software firms, startups
Industry UsagePrimarily in gaming, entertainment, visualizationBroad across various industries including finance, healthcare, tech
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmers focus on creating visual effects, rendering, and graphics algorithms, often within gaming or entertainment industries. Entry Level Software Developers have a broader scope, developing applications across multiple sectors. While both roles require programming skills and a related degree, graphics programmers specialize in visual technologies, whereas software developers work on general software solutions.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer jobs in San Diego, CA? For Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer jobs in San Diego, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer jobs in San Diego, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer jobs in San Diego, CA are:
What cities near San Diego, CA are hiring for Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer jobs? Cities near San Diego, CA with the most Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer job openings in San Diego, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,025 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Engineer, Senior - Job ID: 8425

Engineer, Senior - Job ID: 8425

ACL Digital

San Diego, CA • On-site

$148K - $183K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Top 5 Required Skills (These are not preferred skills. If the candidate does not have these required skills, they will be rejected completely)

1. Vulkan Graphics Programming

- Strong experience with Vulkan render pipelines, compute shaders, synchronization, descriptor sets, memory

barriers, and GPU-driven rendering.

2. Modern C++ Performance Engineering

- Expert-level C++ for real-time systems, memory management, multithreading, SIMD-friendly data layouts, and low-

latency rendering code.

3. Mobile GPU Optimization

- Deep understanding of mobile GPU architectures, especially tile-based rendering, bandwidth limits, cache

behavior, thermal constraints, and power/performance tradeoffs.

4. GPU Compute and Shader Optimization

- Ability to optimize GLSL/SPIR-V compute and graphics shaders, including sorting, culling, binning, blending,

prefix sums, compaction, and parallel data processing.

5. Graphics Performance Profiling and Debugging

- Experience identifying GPU bottlenecks using profiling tools, analyzing frame timing, shader occupancy, memory

bandwidth, overdraw, synchronization stalls, and CPU/GPU overlap.


Technologies: What does this temp must know to perform the required job duties (These are not preferred technologies - If they do not have these technologies they will be rejected completely)


Required Technologies

- Vulkan

- C++17/C++20

- Android NDK

- GLSL or HLSL

- SPIR-V

- Qualcomm Adreno GPU architecture

- Snapdragon mobile platforms

- Qualcomm Snapdragon Profiler

- RenderDoc

- Android Studio / Android build tools

- CMake

- GPU compute shader math

- Real-time rendering pipelines

Required Education:

Required Years of Experience

Bachelor's degree in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Game Rendering, or related work experience.


Key Words:



Job Description:


Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Applies Graphics knowledge and experience to architect, design, implement, and verify the structure and performance of GPU hardware, drivers, features, applications, and tools.

• Writes code for features, drivers, and APIs using different languages (e.g., C, C++, perl, python) and ensures code will perform effectively on different platforms.

• Maintains comprehensive pre- and post-silicon tests using tools and methods in different environments (e.g., simulation, emulation, on-device) to verify performance and identify issues.

• Identifies deficiencies in designs and works with team members to develop solutions to improve designs.

• Collaborates with teams and external stakeholders to expose new features and functionality that align with needs and goals for implementation and customization.

• Writes detailed design documentation and feature descriptions for projects to guide developers and/or customers to use or implement software.

Level of Responsibility:

• Works under supervision.

• Decision-making may affect work beyond immediate work group.

• Requires verbal and written communication skills to convey information. May require basic negotiation, influence, tact, etc.

• Has a moderate amount of influence over key organizational decisions.

• Tasks require multiple steps which can be performed in various orders; some planning, problem-solving, and prioritization must occur to complete the tasks effectively.


Comments for Suppliers:

· How many rounds of interviews should be expected?


2 rounds: one interview with hiring manager and one formal interview follow up


· Work Location:

100% Onsite San Diego


-100% Onsite



· Shift: Hour/Days of Work

Standard 40 hours /week

Job Title: Contractor – Graphics Software Engineer (Dynamic Gaussian Splatting, On-Device XR, Android)

Job Overview

We are seeking a contractor Graphics Software Engineer to support development of real-time Gaussian Splatting–based rendering systems for avatar and XR applications running on-device (edge devices such as Android phones and AR glasses).

This role focuses on GPU optimization, memory-efficient data pipelines, and real-time Gaussian Splatting rendering under mobile constraints. The ideal candidate will be highly hands-on and able to quickly improve performance-critical systems deployed directly on hardware.


Key Responsibilities

1. Gaussian Splatting Rendering

  • Develop and optimize Dynamic Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) rendering pipelines
  • Improve performance of splat-based rendering, including sorting, data layout, and shader efficiency
  • Analyze and resolve issues such as:
  • Splat flickering and popping
  • Sorting inconsistencies
  • Precision differences between CPU and GPU


2. On-Device GPU Optimization (Android / Edge Devices)

  • Optimize Gaussian Splatting pipelines for mobile GPUs (e.g., Adreno) on Android
  • Ensure efficient execution under limited memory, bandwidth, and power constraints
  • Tune rendering for real-time performance on phones and AR glasses


3. Data Pipeline & Memory Efficiency

  • Design compact data representations for Gaussian Splatting frame data
  • Optimize CPU → GPU data transfers for real-time rendering
  • Eliminate intermediate processing and reduce runtime memory overhead


4. Shader Development & Rendering Pipeline Integration

  • Implement GPU shaders tailored to Gaussian Splatting data formats
  • Optimize shader input pathways for efficient on-device execution
  • Integrate rendering pipelines with motion, lighting systems.


5. Debugging & System Validation

  • Debug complex rendering issues in Gaussian Splatting pipelines
  • Investigate numerical precision issues and GPU/CPU inconsistencies
  • Validate rendering output against reference pipelines


6. Collaboration & Execution

  • Collaborate closely with XR, vision, and avatar teams
  • Contribute to on-device demos and prototype systems (phones / AR glasses)
  • Execute quickly on well-defined tasks with strong ownership of implementation


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • Strong programming skills in C/C++
  • Experience with Android platform development
  • Experience with GPU programming (OpenGL ES, Vulkan, or similar)
  • Solid understanding of:
  • Real-time rendering pipelines
  • GPU memory management
  • Performance optimization on embedded systems


Preferred Qualifications

  • Direct experience with Gaussian Splatting / Relighting / Simulation
  • Experience building graphics systems on mobile or XR devices
  • Familiarity with Adreno GPU architecture
  • Experience optimizing for real-time constraints (latency, bandwidth, power)
  • Experience debugging rendering artifacts in GPU pipelines

ACL Digital logo

About ACL Digital

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ACL Digital is a global digital technology firm based in San Jose, CA, US, operating within the IT and services industry. The company offers a broad spectrum of services and solutions, including digital transformation, product engineering, industry solutions, and design-led experiences, among others. ACL Digital has its roots established in 1991 with the aim to become a leading-edge innovator in the digital space and has since grown significantly to work with an array of global customers. The company's mission incorporates a commitment to aiding customers to achieve their business goals by adopting and accelerating their digital transformation journeys.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1992