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Graphics Programmer Intern Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

D. in graphics and AI from MIT, where he developed the acclaimed Taichi GPU programming language ... As a Fullstack Engineer Intern, you'll work on real production projects alongside experienced ...

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Graphics Programmer Intern information

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How much do graphics programmer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for graphics programmer intern in San Jose, CA is $15.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a graphics programmer intern do?

A Graphics Programmer Intern assists in developing and optimizing visual elements of software, such as video games or simulations. They work closely with senior graphics programmers to implement rendering techniques, shaders, and visual effects using programming languages like C++ and graphics APIs such as DirectX or OpenGL. Their tasks often include debugging graphical issues, experimenting with new technologies, and contributing to the creation of visually compelling environments. This internship provides hands-on experience in real-time graphics programming and helps build foundational skills for a career in computer graphics.

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

To thrive as a Graphics Programmer Intern, you need a solid understanding of computer graphics concepts, proficiency in programming languages like C++ or Python, and coursework or projects related to graphics programming. Familiarity with graphics APIs such as OpenGL, DirectX, or Vulkan, as well as version control systems like Git, is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help interns collaborate well and tackle technical challenges. These skills and qualities are vital to efficiently contribute to graphics development projects and learn rapidly in a dynamic team environment.

What types of projects or tasks can a graphics programmer intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Graphics Programmer Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as implementing rendering techniques, optimizing shaders, debugging graphics code, and collaborating with artists to integrate visual assets into the game engine or application. Interns often contribute to developing new visual features, improving performance, and supporting the graphics pipeline. You’ll typically work closely with senior programmers and technical artists, gaining exposure to real-time rendering challenges and best practices in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

What are popular job titles related to Graphics Programmer Intern jobs in San Jose, CA?

For Graphics Programmer Intern jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graphics Programmer Intern jobs in San Jose, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Graphics Programmer Intern jobs in San Jose, CA are:

What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Graphics Programmer Intern jobs?

Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Graphics Programmer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer Intern job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Internship, 48% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,729 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

NVIDIA 2027 Internships: Ph.D. Research Graphics and Simulation

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

By submitting your resume, you acknowledge that your Ph.D. Research Graphics and Simulation internship application will be processed in accordance with NVIDIA's Applicant Privacy Policy and you agree to our Terms of Service. We'll review resumes on an ongoing basis, and a recruiter may reach out if your experience fits one of our many internship opportunities.
NVIDIA pioneered accelerated computing to tackle challenges no one else can solve. Our work in AI and digital twins is transforming the world's largest industries and profoundly impacting society - from gaming to robotics, self-driving cars to life-saving healthcare, climate change to virtual worlds where we can all connect and create.
Our internships offer an excellent opportunity to expand your career and get hands on experience with one of our industry leading Graphics and Simulation teams. We're seeking strategic, ambitious, hard-working, collaborative, and creative individuals who are passionate about helping us tackle challenges no one else can solve.
Learn more about Research at NVIDIA.
What you will be doing:
  • Design and develop algorithms, hardware, and software that advance the state of the art in computing, graphics, media processing, and other technologies central to NVIDIA's business.
  • Invent new techniques, technologies, methodologies, processes, and devices, to enable new products or types of products. Deliverable results may include prototypes, patents, leading to products and publications.
  • Collaborate with other team members, teams, and/or external researchers.

What we need to see:
  • Must be actively enrolled in a university pursuing a Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, for the full duration of the internship; anticipated graduation date (month and year) must be clearly indicated on a resume or CV to be considered.
  • Depending on the internship, prior experience or knowledge requirements could include the following programming skills and technologies:

Python, C, CUDA, HLSL/GLSL, ML Frameworks (PyTorch, JAX, Warp)
  • Strong background in research with publications at top conferences.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • Experience with large-scale model training is a plus.

Potential internships require research experience in at least one of the following areas:
  • Real-Time Graphics and Rendering

Differentiable Rendering
Ray Tracing and Path Tracing
Neural Rendering Models
Light Transport and Material/Shape Modeling
  • Simulation and Animation

Physics-based simulation
World models
Deep learning for animation
3D and 4D Content Creation
Virtual and augmented reality environments
  • Generative AI for graphics, simulation, and content creation
  • 3D Deep Learning
  • Digital human creation
  • Human motion modeling
  • GPU-accelerated algorithms and systems for graphics and simulation
  • Synthetic data generation

Click hereto learn more about NVIDIA, our early talent programs, benefits offered to students and other helpful student resources related to our latest technologies and endeavors.
Our internship hourly rates are a standard pay based on the position, your location, year in school, degree, and experience. The hourly rate for our interns is 38 USD - 94 USD.
You will also be eligible for Intern benefits.
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US