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Graphic Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Realtimevfx

Graphic Programmer (Shader/VFX)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

[HIRING] Hey everyone We're looking for a Graphic Programmer to join a Ukrainian hyper-casual mobile game studio, 300M+ downloads. Product -- hyper-casual mobile games where every visual detail ...

Integrated Resources INC

Graphic Engineer Duration: 9+ Months Contract Location: Basking Ridge, NJ Job Responsibilities: Work on next generation media player that integrates live video and 3D graphics Sr. Graphics Engineer ...

studiowildcard.com

Senior Graphics Programmer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$180 - $260/hr

We are looking for a Senior Graphics Programmer with an obsessive focus on performance and visual fidelity to push Unreal Engine 5 to its absolute limits. Reporting directly to the Chief Technical ...

Studio Wildcard

Senior Graphics Programmer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$200K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Graphics Programmer with an obsessive focus on performance and visual fidelity to push Unreal Engine 5 to its absolute limits. Reporting directly to the Chief Technical ...

Apple

Graphics Emulation Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Description As a Graphics Emulation Engineer in Apple's GPU Design Verification and Validation organization, you'll ensure our complex GPU designs meet Apple's quality standards through comprehensive ...

Long Wave Inc.

Graphic Artist

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$117K - $140K/yr

The Graphic Artist will create and revise illustrations for Interactive Electronic Technical ... Convert and simplify engineering and CAD source data into clear technical illustrations appropriate ...

Long Wave, Inc.

Graphic Artist

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$117K - $140K/yr

The Graphic Artist will create and revise illustrations for Interactive Electronic Technical ... Convert and simplify engineering and CAD source data into clear technical illustrations appropriate ...

Iron Galaxy Studios

Graphics Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$135K - $167K/yr

Graphics Programming - use knowledge of graphics to optimize rendering performance and ensure games can run on different rendering hardware. * Work effectively in cross disciplinary teams and ...

Nvidia

Principal Graphics Developer Tools Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$138K - $171K/yr

The Graphics Developer Tools team is seeking an exceptional technical leader to help shape the future of graphics development. This role spans multiple areas of NVIDIA's graphics software ecosystem ...

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Graphic Programmer information

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$110.5K

$135K

$156.5K

How much do graphic programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphic programmer in the United States is $135,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,000.00 and $145,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graphic programmer?

Graphic programmers are specialized software developers who focus on creating and optimizing visual elements in computer programs, particularly in video games, simulations, and multimedia applications. They work on rendering engines, shaders, lighting, and other graphical effects to achieve high-quality visuals and efficient performance. Their expertise lies in graphics APIs, mathematics, and hardware acceleration to ensure smooth and realistic graphics. Graphic programmers often collaborate closely with artists and designers to bring visual concepts to life. This role requires strong programming skills, usually in languages like C++ and knowledge of graphics libraries such as DirectX or OpenGL.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graphic programmer?

To thrive as a Graphic Programmer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and graphics programming, often supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Proficiency with programming languages like C++, graphics APIs such as DirectX or OpenGL, and familiarity with shader languages and game engines is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective collaboration with artists and developers are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating visually compelling, high-performance graphics that enhance user experiences in interactive applications.

How does a graphic programmer typically collaborate with artists and designers during a game's development cycle?

Graphic Programmers work closely with artists and designers to ensure that visual concepts are both achievable and optimized for performance. They often translate creative ideas into technical solutions, developing shaders, rendering techniques, and visual effects that align with the team's artistic vision. Regular meetings and iterative feedback sessions help bridge the gap between technical feasibility and creative intent, making strong communication skills essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Graphic Programmer vs Shader Developer?

AspectGraphic ProgrammerShader Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Graphics, or related field; knowledge of graphics APIsSimilar educational background; specialized knowledge of shader languages
Work EnvironmentGame studios, visual effects companies, simulation firmsGame studios, graphics software companies, real-time rendering projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across industries involving graphics programmingPrimarily in graphics and game development sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in graphics developmentFocusing on shader-specific tasks within graphics programming

Both Graphic Programmers and Shader Developers work in graphics-intensive environments, often requiring similar educational backgrounds and skills. While Graphic Programmers handle overall graphics systems and engine integration, Shader Developers focus specifically on creating and optimizing shaders for rendering effects. The roles are closely related, with Shader Developers often being a specialized subset within the broader scope of Graphic Programming.

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What cities are hiring for Graphic Programmer jobs?

Cities with the most Graphic Programmer job openings:

What states have the most Graphic Programmer jobs?

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Graphic Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graphic Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,000 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Graphic Programmer (Shader/VFX)

Realtimevfx

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

[HIRING] Hey everyone We’re looking for a Graphic Programmer to join a Ukrainian hyper-casual mobile game studio, 300M+ downloads. Product — hyper-casual mobile games where every visual detail matters — satisfying effects, smooth animations, and shaders that make players think “wait, how did they do that?”

What you’ll be doing:
  • Writing shaders and developing new graphics technologies
  • Creating satisfying visual effects and animations
  • Optimizing unconventional graphics for mobile devices
  • Working on hyper-casual titles with potential expansion to PC
What we’re looking for:
  • Experience with shaders, rendering, and animations
  • Strong math: trigonometry, vector math, matrices
  • Understanding of tweens/easings
  • Creative and artistic eye — style, color, composition
  • Unity/HLSL (Unreal/GLSL also fine), understanding of mobile GPU

Fully remote, flexible schedule Small team, no bureaucracy, no rigid deadlines Open to Ukrainian and Belarusian candidates

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