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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Fairfax, VA (NOW HIRING)

YO AI Labs

GPU Programmer - Remote

Washington, DC · Remote

$60 - $85/hr

Background in graphics programming, ML acceleration, scientific computing, HPC, or related GPU-focused fields. * Strong understanding of GPU architecture and performan

Imperative Systems

Graphics Designer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

The Graphic Designer will work closely with technical writers, engineers, and subject matter experts to translate complex technical concepts into clear, professional visual formats. The Graphic ...

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All JobsGraphics Programmer JobsGraphics Programmer Jobs in Fairfax, VA

Graphics Programmer information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$113.9K

$139.1K

$161.3K

How much do graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programmer in Fairfax, VA is $139,120.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,800.00 and $149,400.00 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.

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What cities near Fairfax, VA are hiring for Graphics Programmer jobs?

Cities near Fairfax, VA with the most Graphics Programmer job openings:

Graphics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,195 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Senior Graphics Developer/Designer - OBIQUA with Security Clearance

CELESTAR CORPORATION

Reston, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Celestar Corporation is seeking a Senior Graphics Developer/Designer to support The Defense Intelligence Agency ( DIA) under the Object Based Intelligence and Quality Assurance (OBIQUA) task order. The primary place of performance will be at DIA Facilities across the National Capital Region (NCR). If interested and meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding and impactful opportunity. ANTICIPATED AWARD: TBD ANTICIPATED START: TBD PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: 1 Base Year + 4 Option Years LOCATION: DIA Facilities across the National Capital Region (NCR) CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Active TS/SCI About Us: Celestar, a proud Veteran-Owned company, offers highly competitive salaries and benefits. Our comprehensive benefits package includes company-paid employee and family dental insurance, employee health insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage. Additionally, we provide a 401(k)-retirement plan with company matching, paid holidays, and personal time off. Responsibilities: This opportunity will support multiple DIA initiatives, including the Machine-Assisted Rapid-Repository System (MARS), Object Management Services (OMS), and Object-Based Intelligence (OBI). • The Graphics Developer/Designer Works collaboratively with analysts to understand requirements and further enhances/conveys analytic thoughts and assessments by developing graphic and layout solutions. • Provides graphic design and layout solutions for intelligence products including, but not limited to, developing illustrations, editing existing images, providing font management, and utilizing advanced pre-publications techniques. • Uses Government-specified technology to produce graphic design, cartographic products, and interactive graphical content, video content, analytic product templates, and marketing content. • Integrates graphics with text, audio and video to support interactive and multimedia high-visibility finished intelligence products. • Produces dynamic content IAW IC published standards (i.e. D3 Style Guide), including podcasts or audio segments. • Provides user experience/user interface expertise for development of interactive graphics and web products. • Demonstrates proficiency in professional graphics and design software to include, but not limited to: Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, AfterEffects, Premiere, and Flash), Apple Final Cut Pro X, and Apple Mac hardware platforms, Map Publisher, MS Office Suite, and any other interactive graphics enablers, languages, or tools specified. • Supports DIA efforts to vet or validate existing or emerging programs and capabilities. Required qualifications/skills: • Minimum 12 years of experience related to the specific labor category with at least a portion of the experience within the last 2 years with a master's degree. -OR- • A minimum of 17 years of experience related to the specific labor category with at least a portion of the experience within the last 2 years with a bachelor's degree. • Demonstrates ability to work independently and with minimal oversight. Come on board with a company that Values its Employees! Celestar Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Celestar Corporation prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex (including same-sex); sexual orientation; gender identity; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; citizenship status; marital status; service member/protected veteran status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

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