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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Winn, MI ยท On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Experience using graphical programming environments like MATLAB, Simulink, Parker IQN, CodeSys or similar to create control systems and HMI. * Experience with CAN Bus, CANopen, j1939, OBD, SPN, PGN ...

iOS Developer

Dearborn, MI ยท On-site

$47.50 - $65.50/hr

Be it core Java, full-stack Java, Web/UI designers, Big Data or Cloud or Mobility developers ... Qualifications Core Data, Core Animation, Core Graphics,Core Text,APIs Additional Information Only ...

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Graphics Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$96.3K

$117.7K

$136.4K

How much do graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programmer in Michigan is $117,665.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,900.00 and $126,400.00 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 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 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,665 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Alamo Group

Winn, MI โ€ข On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Morbark LLC located in Winn, Michigan is looking for a Controls Engineer. Morbark LLC offers competitive compensation and a variety of benefits including:
  • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 401k Plan with company match
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Vacation and Sick time
  • Paid Holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement

Position Summary:
Under general direction, Controls Software Engineer is responsible for developing and supporting embedded software and control systems that operate Morbark' s industrial equipment. This role combines software development and machine controls engineering, The designing software modules and control logic that ensure machines operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.
Working as part of the Electrical & Hydraulic Engineering team, the Controls Software Engineer develops software used to control machine functions, integrate electrical and hydraulic systems, and deliver real-time feedback to machine operators.
This role focuses on designing, developing, testing, and troubleshooting machine control software used in Morbark equipment. The role contributes to both new product development and continuous improvement of existing equipment, ensuring software performance meets operational and safety requirements.
Essential Functions of the Job:
  • Design, develop, and implement embedded software that controls machine functions and operator interfaces.
  • Develop software modules and control logic for machine operation using platforms such as Parker IQAN, CODESYS, CodeAssist, or similar control environments.
  • Design implement and tune control loops using PID, discrete time operations, ladder logic, scripting, and structured programming language
  • Write and maintain code that enables machine functionality, diagnostics, and operator displays.
  • Define and implement control algorithms to manage electrical and hydraulic machine systems.
  • Design and implement machine control systems integrating software, electrical components, sensors, and hydraulic systems.
  • Develop functional requirements and control strategies that support safe and efficient machine operation.
  • Collaborate with electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical engineers to integrate control systems into machine designs.
  • Support development of operator interfaces and machine diagnostics.
  • Simulate and debug software during development prior to machine implementation.
  • Validate software and control system performance at bench and machine levels.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot software, electrical, and control system issues on machines.
  • Identify root causes of machine control problems and implement corrective solutions.
  • Additional duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA's):
  1. Must demonstrate the ability to work in a team, learn and adapt quickly to new information.
  2. Must demonstrate a minimum of knowledge of vehicle electrical systems, CAN networks, electric vehicles or similar complex systems.
  3. Experience using graphical programming environments like MATLAB, Simulink, Parker IQN, CodeSys or similar to create control systems and HMI.
  4. Experience with CAN Bus, CANopen, j1939, OBD, SPN, PGN, DTC SPN, and similar
  5. Familiar with structured language programming and or software development operations
  6. Experience with high and low voltage electric drive systems including motors, inverters and battery packs
  7. Ability to read, interpret and create drawings, schematics, operator's manuals, and assembly instructions
  8. Ability to use hand tools such as rachet drivers, wrenches, hammers, punches, soldering irons, de-soldering tools, and a variety of crimpers.
  9. Ability to perform basic measurements using tape measure, protractor, calipers, micrometers, and other measuring devices
  10. Ability to perform basic measurements using multimeter, o-scope and other measuring devices
  11. Skilled and proficient with the use of personal computers; including JDE, and standard office software (i.e., Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, etc.)
  12. Knowledge of setup and calibration of inverters
  13. Excellent communication skills both verbal and written. Ability to communicate with various levels within the organization.
  14. Strong planning and project management skills with the ability to work well under pressure and manage multiple projects and priorities.
  15. Demonstrated ability to provide timely, detailed, results oriented products.
  16. Able to work irregular and/or long hours that may include weekends and/or holidays as project requirements dictate.
  17. Able to travel independently by common air carrier and automobile including international travel
  18. Able to maintain an insurable driving record
  19. Demonstrated ability to exhibit and model Alamo Group's Core Competencies:
    • Leading Change / Change Management: Ability to drive improvement of team, division, and corporate goals and objectives through people. Ability to balance change and continually strive to improve business performance.
    • Leading People / Teamwork: Ability to design and implement strategies which maximize employees' potential and foster high ethical standards in meeting the team, division, and corporate objectives.
    • Communication: Ability to explain, advocate, and express facts and ideas in a convincing manner, and negotiate with individuals and groups internally and externally. The ability to develop internal and external networks and identify the issues that impact the work of the organization.
    • Business Acumen: Understands and interprets business financials and metrics and utilizes latest business strategies. Focuses on outcomes and creates opportunities for success. Acquires and utilizes human, financial, material and information resources effectively.
    • Results Driven: Ability to make timely and effective decisions and produce results through planning and the implementation and evaluation of business metrics, systems, policies, policies, and program; stressing accountability and continuous improvement.

Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field is required.
Experience developing embedded software or machine control systems.
Knowledge of industrial control systems or PLC-based platforms such as Parker IQAN, CODESYS, or similar environments.
Minimum 2 years of previous experience in a vehicle or similar complex system, designing electrical systems or control systems.
Working Conditions:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position will typically spend some time in the field with products, sometime working in the office at a desk, and some time will be spent in the prototype shop working on equipment trouble shooting or building projects for the first time. Hands on work is expected along with use of shop technicians for tasks that do not require direct involvement.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus. Standing, walking and some lifting while traveling and attending trade shows and demonstrations.