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Entry Level Computer Graphics Programmer Jobs in San Diego, CA

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 ...

Job Title: Mechanical Drafter (Drafter 2 - Entry Level) This entry-level Mechanical Drafter ... Ability to create and revise engineering drawings and CAD models for mechanical design and drafting.

New

Develop desktop applications and graphical user interfaces using modern software frameworks ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering ...

Senior GPU Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$133K - $200K/yr

... graphics workloads, running benchmarks for different applications, and performing pre‑ and ... Will accept a Master's Degree (or foreign academic equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Computer ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 12, 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 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 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 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.

Graphics Power Architect, Platform Architecture

San Diego, CA • On-site

Apple Inc.
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with architecture, design, and software teams to define and tune GPU power architectures.

  • Develop and maintain GPU models using C++ and Python to understand and improve power architecture.

  • Assess the feasibility of new hardware and software power features through experiments and reporting.


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 684 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Graphics Power Architect, Platform Architecture

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, hard-working people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. Join us to help deliver the next groundbreaking Apple product.We are seeking a highly motivated, innovative, and dedicated engineer to join the GPU Platform Architecture Team; we are a group that is driving advanced exploration for next generation GPU architectures in iPhone, iPad and Mac products. We rely on strong analytical skills and close collaboration to deliver the best overall solution to our customers. In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a chip design effort working with all disciplines, with a critical impact on getting high performance products to millions of customers quickly.

Description

As part of the GPU Platform Architecture team, you will be working with architecture, design and software partners on the definition & tuning of Appleʼs future GPU power architectures. The role involves C++ and Python code development and building and maintaining of GPU models targeted at understanding and enhancing the power architecture of Apple’s GPUs. You will collaborate with experienced GPU architects, RTL designers & software teams to assess the feasibility of new hardware and software power features, running experiments and reporting them.This is an opportunity to join Appleʼs world-class GPU team to collaborate, develop and improve GPU modeling and features for power architecture.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Experience in GPU or CPU architecture and micro-architecture design
  • Software skills and proficiency in C/C++ and a scripting language such as Python or Ruby
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working as part of large cross-functional teams
  • Experience in power modeling, active power management and/or analyzing and optimizing device power
  • Experience with creating adaptive or machine learning based algorithms
  • Interpersonal, analytical skills and creativity to help the team solve design challenges
  • Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering
  • 20+ years of relevant experience
  • Ability to travel internationally on occasion
  • Ability to work with complex designs from architecture to production

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace

Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976