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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Our team creates system graphics, floor plan graphics, 3D graphics, equipment graphics, animations, and related visual solutions used by contractors, engineers, facility teams, and building owners.

... Engineering News Record's Top 500 Design Firms in the United States and we're still growing ... Support motion graphics for social and digital use: animated posts, lower thirds, and short intro ...

Implement features, graphical interfaces, and system controls using C++, and Qt/QML. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, systems, and test engineers to define software ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $134K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior ... Create Automation System graphics and dashboards that tie into a SCADA system. * Understand ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior ... Create Automation System graphics and dashboards that tie into a SCADA system. * Understand ...

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior ... Create Automation System graphics and dashboards that tie into a SCADA system. * Understand ...

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control ... Map control points into graphical front end and link points to graphics * Create Automation System ...

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control ... graphical front end and link points to graphics • Create Automation System graphics and ...

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control ... graphical front end and link points to graphics • Create Automation System graphics and ...

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control ... graphical front end and link points to graphics • Create Automation System graphics and ...

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control ... graphical front end and link points to graphics • Create Automation System graphics and ...

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Graphics Programmer information

See Iowa salary details

$103.8K

$126.8K

$147K

How much do graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programmer in Iowa is $126,800.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,400.00 and $136,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graphics Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graphics Programmer, you need a solid background in computer science, mathematics, and computer graphics, often supported by a degree in a related field. Expertise in programming languages like C++ and familiarity with graphics APIs such as DirectX, OpenGL, or Vulkan, as well as shader programming, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork help you design and optimize complex visual systems. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing high-performance, visually appealing graphics that meet the demands of modern applications and games.

What are graphics programmers?

Graphics programmers are specialized software developers who focus on creating and optimizing visual elements in video games, simulations, and other computer graphics applications. They write code to render 2D and 3D graphics, work with engines like Unity or Unreal, and utilize APIs like DirectX or OpenGL. Their responsibilities often include developing shaders, improving rendering performance, and collaborating with artists and designers to achieve visually compelling results. Graphics programmers need strong mathematical skills, especially in linear algebra and geometry, to solve complex visual problems. They play a crucial role in ensuring that digital graphics run smoothly and look realistic.

What Does a Graphics Programmer Do?

A graphics programmer creates software and applications for developing images and animation on a computer. Your duties can focus on programs for computer-aided design and rendering, animation, image manipulation, photo editing, or video game design. You use linear math and algorithms as well as computer programming languages. Your responsibilities involve writing code in languages like C++, Java, and High-Level Shading Language (HLSL). After coding, you test your programs to ensure that each article and image is accurate. If you work on video games, you coordinate with other developers and programmers on a video game design platform like Unreal Engine.

What is the difference between Graphics Programmer vs Shader Developer?

AspectGraphics ProgrammerShader Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or related field; knowledge of graphics APIsSimilar educational background; strong understanding of shading languages
Work EnvironmentDevelops and optimizes rendering engines, works on graphics pipelinesCreates and fine-tunes shaders for visual effects and rendering
Industry UsageUsed across game development, simulation, and visualization industriesPrimarily in game development and real-time rendering projects
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared due to overlapping skills in graphics programmingSpecialized focus on shader code and effects

While both roles require knowledge of graphics APIs and programming skills, Graphics Programmers develop the overall rendering systems and pipelines, whereas Shader Developers focus specifically on writing and optimizing shaders for visual effects. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and specialization within the graphics development process.

How do Graphics Programmers typically collaborate with artists and designers during a game development project?

Graphics Programmers work closely with artists and designers to ensure that visual assets are rendered efficiently and accurately within the game engine. They often participate in regular meetings to discuss technical constraints, optimize asset pipelines, and implement new graphical features based on creative requirements. This collaboration requires strong communication skills, as Graphics Programmers must translate artistic visions into technical solutions, troubleshoot rendering issues, and provide feedback to artists to achieve the desired visual quality while maintaining performance. Effective teamwork between these roles is essential to deliver high-quality visuals that run smoothly on target platforms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Graphics Programmer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Graphics Programmer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Graphics Programmer jobs in IA? For Graphics Programmer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,800 per year, or $61 per hour.

Graphics Specialist

Life Line Emergency Vehicles

Sumner, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Join the Team That Builds Life-Saving Vehicles

Why Life Line?

At Life Line, you won’t just build parts — you’ll help build ambulances that save lives every day. When you join our team, you become part of something bigger. We foster a supportive, team-oriented environment where your skills grow, your hard work is valued, and your contributions truly make a difference.

Position Summary
The Graphics Specialist is a crucial member of the Life Line Emergency Vehicle team, bringing skill, precision, and creativity to every vehicle finish. This role requires advanced expertise in installing high-quality graphics, from intricate pinstriping to large-scale logos, lettering, and chevrons, ensuring each piece meets our top standards. In this position, you’ll be responsible for executing a range of graphic applications, using techniques that vary from fine pinstriping as narrow as ¼ inch to larger decorative finishes up to 12 inches. Alongside applying vinyl graphics and decals, you’ll engage in constructing lettering and logos, sanding, buffing, and assisting teammates to support a seamless production process.

This role is ideal for someone with a solid background in vehicle detailing, pinstriping, and vinyl application, who thrives in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment. Your work will involve direct collaboration with internal and external customers, ensuring that each vehicle leaves production with the superior finish that Life Line Emergency Vehicles is known for.

Key Responsibilities

  • Learn and apply pin striping techniques, ranging from ¼” to 12”.
  • Problem-solve and make decisions as needed.
  • Teach processes to other employees.
  • Demonstrate strong finish work skills and attention to detail.
  • Read and interpret blueprints and work orders accurately.
  • Use cleaning agents safely and wear appropriate PPE.
  • Inspect finished products for quality assurance.
  • Apply quality assurance techniques throughout the production process.
  • Meet or exceed cost reduction goals.
  • Understand and apply manufacturing methods and techniques.
  • Be knowledgeable about Life Line products and materials required for production.
  • Collaborate closely with the Engineering team and other production personnel.
  • Coordinate with the parts department on needed items.
  • Manage deadlines effectively.
  • Exhibit strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Demonstrate good measuring and mathematical skills.
  • Communicate effectively, both in person and over the phone.
  • Adhere to all safety policies and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Strong technical proficiency in vehicle graphics application, with excellent attention to detail for consistent, high-quality finishes.
  • Self-motivated, disciplined worker who excels in fast-paced environments and can manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
  • Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate closely with team members and other departments, as well as provide guidance on graphics techniques when necessary.
  • Organized, detail-oriented approach to planning and executing graphic layouts, ensuring alignment with work orders and production timelines.
  • Commitment to professional growth and adherence to safety standards, including the use of appropriate PPE.

Preferred Experience

  • Hands-on experience in vehicle detailing, specifically in applying vinyl graphics, decals, and pinstriping.
  • Proven ability to execute both fine-detail pinstriping (as narrow as ¼ inch) and larger graphic applications (up to 12 inches) to precise specifications.
  • Familiarity with buffing, sanding, and surface preparation techniques to ensure a flawless finish.
  • Prior experience interpreting blueprints and work orders for accurate layout and installation.
  • Knowledge of Life Line products is preferred but not required.

Education

  • High school diploma or technical degree in a related field, or equivalent experience.

Physical Demands:

  • Standing, Walking, and Climbing: Requires prolonged standing and walking, with occasional climbing of ladders or working on elevated surfaces.
  • Fine Motor Skills and Repetitive Movements: Involves precise hand movements for tasks like pin striping, lettering, sanding, and buffing, with repetitive arm and hand motions.
  • Lifting and Carrying: Must be able to lift and carry materials and tools up to 50 pounds as needed.
  • Vision and PPE Use: Good close vision, depth perception, and the ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and safety glasses for detailed work and safety.

Work Environment:

  • Work is primarily indoors, with occasional exposure to outdoor elements.
  • Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, wet/humid conditions, and fluctuating temperatures.
  • Occasional exposure to fumes or airborne particles.
  • Noise levels are typically moderate.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Life Line is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Contingencies of Employment

  • Successful completion of a background check, pre-employment drug screen and physical examination
  • Successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, if applicable to the position

Equal Opportunity Employer

Life Line is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Work Authorization:
Life Line Emergency Vehicles does not offer employment sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.