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Graphic Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (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 ...

YO AI Labs

GPU Programmer - Remote

Chicago, IL · Remote

$60 - $85/hr

Background in graphics programming, ML acceleration, scientific computing, HPC, or related GPU-focused fields. * Strong understanding of GPU architecture and performan

Altimeter Associates

Graphic Designer

Chicago, IL · Remote

We are seeking a talented and creative Mid-Level Graphic Designer to join our remote team. The ... Altimeter Associates is a leading architecture, engineering, and consulting firm committed to ...

Kimley-Horn

Graphic Designer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Interact with engineers, project managers, and technical staff * Work within corporate and client branding guidelines Qualifications * Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design or similar * Proficient in ...

Kimley-Horn

Graphic Designer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Interact with engineers, project managers, and technical staff * Work within corporate and client branding guidelines Qualifications * Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design or similar * Proficient in ...

Vistex

Associate Graphic Designer

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

The Associate Graphic Designer is responsible for assisting in the design and production of ... Collaborate with marketing team members including copywriters, campaign specialists, web developers ...

Vistex BKV

Associate Graphic Designer

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

The Associate Graphic Designer is responsible for assisting in the design and production of ... Collaborate with marketing team members including copywriters, campaign specialists, web developers ...

Vistex

Associate Graphic Designer

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

The Associate Graphic Designer is responsible for assisting in the design and production of ... Collaborate with marketing team members including copywriters, campaign specialists, web developers ...

Wheaton College

Graphic Designer

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$60 - $72K/hr

Graphic Designer FLSA: Exempt Job Type: Full-Time Staff Term: Other Staff Work Schedule (hours ... Collaborate with directors, copywriters, photographers, videographers, web developers, social media ...

CannonDesign

Experiential Graphic Designer II

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$57K - $72K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE The Environmental Graphic Designer II is a creative professional who thrives on ... engineering, and social impact converge. We don't just dream up solutions - we create and bring ...

CannonDesign

Experiential Graphic Designer IB

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $64K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE The Environmental Graphic Designer IB is a creative professional who thrives on ... engineering, and social impact converge. We don't just dream up solutions - we create and bring ...

CannonDesign

Experiential Graphic Designer IB

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$55K - $64K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE The Environmental Graphic Designer IB is a creative professional who thrives on ... engineering, and social impact converge. We don't just dream up solutions - we create and bring ...

CannonDesign

Experiential Graphic Designer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $72K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE The Environmental Graphic Designer II is a creative professional who thrives on ... engineering, and social impact converge. We don't just dream up solutions - we create and bring ...

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All JobsGraphic Programmer JobsGraphic Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Graphic Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$113.9K

$139.2K

$161.3K

How much do graphic programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphic programmer in Chicago, IL is $139,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,900.00 and $149,500.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Graphic Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Graphic Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graphic Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Graphic Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Graphic Programmer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Graphic Programmer job openings:

Graphic Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graphic Programmer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 66% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,179 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Graphic Programmer (Shader/VFX)

Realtimevfx

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 7 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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