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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

$136K - $163K/yr

ACI is a Woman-Owned Small Business professional services provider of engineering and technical services to the United States Government. We seek an experienced Graphic Designer to serve as part of ...

$136K - $163K/yr

ACI is a Woman-Owned Small Business professional services provider of engineering and technical services to the United States Government. We seek an experienced Graphic Designer to serve as part of ...

Controls Field Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$79K - $158K/yr

Conduct graphics engineering functions which include creating equipment and floor plan graphics per project documents. * Submit material orders for project-required materials to the purchasing group ...

Showing results 21-40

Graphics Programmer information

See Maryland salary details

$107.2K

$131K

$151.9K

How much do graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programmer in Maryland is $131,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,300.00 and $140,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graphics programmer?

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 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.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Maryland?

The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Maryland are:

What cities in Maryland are hiring for Graphics Programmer jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Graphics Programmer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Graphics Programmer jobs in MD?

For Graphics Programmer jobs in MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,022 per year, or $63 per hour.

$136K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

*** This position is contingent upon ACI's successful award of the associated government contract.
 
*** All prospective applicants will be contacted to discuss contract timelines, the process associated with hiring for this role, and award decisions progress.

ACI is a Woman-Owned Small Business professional services provider of engineering and technical services to the United States Government. We seek an experienced Graphic Designer to serve as part of ACI's Government Programs Team, which supports CPE ISW for IEW&S HQs SETA.

As a Graphic Designer, you will be responsible for providing senior-level graphics support, driving creative art direction, high-end motion video concept design, and the production of print and multi-media products while collaborating with senior designers on larger projects with minimal supervision.  A Graphic Designer at ACI will:
  • Lead the creation and execution of compelling visual concepts and creative strategies across print, digital, and motion media, ensuring adherence to brand standards and organizational objectives. 
  • Develop and oversee the production of print graphics integrated with high-end motion video and animation projects, ensuring seamless visual storytelling 
  • Independently design and produce strategic and executive-level communication materials supporting senior leaders, incorporating clear and impactful messaging. 
  • Direct the development of storyboards, scripts, and creative planning documents to guide multimedia and video production teams. 
  • Create and provide illustrations, drawings, and other print art work 
  • Provide photographs, charts, diagrams, maps, slides, overlays, and other kinds of visual material for use in communicating information 
  • Coordinate and lead conference graphic support, including planning, development, and placement of printed materials, signage, exhibits, and other event visuals in collaboration with event planners and stakeholders. 
  • Manage technical graphic design deliverables related to industrial design, architecture, drafting, and environmental branding, ensuring accuracy and quality control. 
  • Lead budget development and cost management for graphic production and environmental branding initiatives; serve as the primary liaison with vendors, subcontractors, and consultants for graphic-related services. Provide expert review and quality assurance for all graphic outputs, maintaining compliance with Army and CPE IEW&S branding and technical standards. 
  • Provide backup support to web design, development, and maintenance. 
A Graphic Designer who fits our team is:
  • Dynamic: contributes energy and enthusiasm to our daily tasks, to the team's interactions, and to the Company's mission.
  • Thorough: possesses an unparalleled work ethic; produces complete, even polished products; persistent; mission-focused; asks "Why?" as often as necessary to get to the root of the matter.
  • Mature: respects others' opinions, beliefs, and culture; listens to ideas, shares thoughts, and works independently and together to contribute insights to the company's leaders.
  • Forthright: speaks with conviction; argues based on understanding, respectfully.
  • Inquisitive: seeks deeper explanations of how systems work, not the surface-level description of the actors involved; goes beyond "stick-fetching" to connect the unconnected.
  • Timely: shows up, ready to think, prepared to get on with the day's assignments; contributes analytical insights that meet time-sensitive, reasonable requests.
  • Honest: knows what's right, what's legal, what's appropriate; acts accordingly.
  • Due to the sensitive nature of this work, a US Government security clearance is required, and all applicants must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • Must currently possess or have the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.
  • High school diploma and 14 years of relevant experience, or
  • Associates degree and 12 years of relevant experience, or
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field and 10 years of relevant experience, or
  • Masters's degree in a related field and five (5) experience
  • Proficiency in Adobe Premier, After Effects, Edius, Lightroom, Photoshop, Capture One or other photography/videography and editing specific software
  • Knowledge of photography and videography techniques
  • Possess the ability to work with vendors and consultants for quotes on services and subcontractors or service providers. 
  • The ability to prepare and edit video content for broadcast, web, social media and other applications, including ability to adjust sound/color, add aftereffects, cut segments, etc.
  • Competitive salary
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
  • Group Life and Voluntary Life Insurance plans
  • Retirement Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Tuition and Professional Development Reimbursement Program