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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Iron Galaxy Studios

Graphics Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$135K - $167K/yr

Graphics Programming - use knowledge of graphics to optimize rendering performance and ensure games can run on different rendering hardware. * Work effectively in cross disciplinary teams and ...

Hoffman & Hoffman Inc

Graphics Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

Graphics Engineer Reports to: Engineering Supervisor Job Status: Exempt Job Purpose: Design and create Building Automation System(BAS) Graphical User Interfaces(GUI) by: * Using various graphic ...

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Graphics Programmer information

See Tennessee salary details

$100.3K

$122.5K

$142K

How much do graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programmer in Tennessee is $122,528.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,500.00 and $131,600.00 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.
More about Graphics Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Graphics Programmer jobs in Tennessee? For Graphics Programmer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graphics Programmer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Graphics Programmer jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Graphics Programmer jobs in TN? For Graphics Programmer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Graphics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $122,528 per year, or $58.9 per hour.
Graphics Engineer

Graphics Engineer

Iron Galaxy Studios

Nashville, TN • On-site

$135K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Iron Galaxy Nashville, LLC in Nashville, TN seeks Graphics Engineer.
Hybrid position- Telecommuting flexibility, but a requirement to physically be in the Nashville, TN area.
Develop cutting edge graphics features, techniques, and effects on both internal and external projects.
Job duties Include:
  • Graphics Programming - use knowledge of graphics to optimize rendering performance and ensure games can run on different rendering hardware.
  • Work effectively in cross disciplinary teams and collaborate on implementing features.
  • Stay up to date on game programming practices, be receptive to feedback from teammates and leads, and mentor more junior engineers.
  • Serve as a people leader as it relates to management of projects when needed.
  • Develop cutting edge rendering features and special effects to support the needs of internal projects and external clients.
  • Support art and design departments with the best technology available to help them realize their visions.
  • Analyze performance and implement optimizations at both a high and low level.
  • Work with multi-disciplinary development team to help set the direction of rendering technology at Iron Galaxy.
  • Use C++
  • Navigating and modify commercial and proprietary C++ game engines.
  • Use of low-level shading language and graphics API.
  • Use modern 3D graphics techniques.
  • Stays up to date with developing trends and novel techniques in real-time rendering.
  • Use of modern hardware rendering pipelines.
  • Use of multiple-rendering engines and graphics hardware.
  • Use high-quality graphics debuggers (e.g., RenderDoc, PIX).
  • Use of modern console hardware.
  • Use of current commercial-scale game engine.

Requires: Bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent in Computer Science and 2 years of experience in Software Development or related occupation.
Iron Galaxy Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment are essential to making quality games. Our teams actively support equal access to career opportunities for all people regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, national origin, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We prohibit retaliation against individuals who present discrimination complaints to Iron Galaxy management or relevant government agencies. We strongly encourage women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.

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