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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Fairfax, VA (NOW HIRING)

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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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.

More about Graphics Programmer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

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

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The top searched job categories for Graphics Programmer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

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.

Graphics Designer

Imperative Systems

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

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Imperative Systems is a privately owned company established in 2017 to enable the National Security Community to achieve their critical missions effectively, efficiently, and securely. We provide expeditionary mission support, critical infrastructure protection, and strategic advisory services on a worldwide basis to support the National Security Community. We are adaptive and agile in order to meet the emerging needs of our specialized clientele. We strive for a culture of excellence, to build a team of the best people, equipped with the best skills and technical support to deliver results that exceed expectations, even in the most difficult circumstances.
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Imperative is seeking a talented Graphic Designer<\/b> to support the work of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service. This position will be a subcontractor to Parsons (formerly Xator) in support of the Overseas Security Installation Services II (OSIS II) program.
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The Graphic Designer<\/b> will be responsible for creating, editing, and producing visual content in support of Counter\-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C\-UAS) operations conducted on a worldwide basis. This includes designing graphics, illustrations, diagrams, and other visual materials for technical reports, manuals, presentations, and publications. The Graphic Designer<\/b> will ensure that all visual content adheres to Department of State style guides and templates, maintains consistency across related documents, and communicates complex technical information clearly to a wide audience of readers.
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The Graphic Designer<\/b> will work closely with technical writers, engineers, and subject matter experts to translate complex technical concepts into clear, professional visual formats. The Graphic Designer<\/b> will also collaborate with Program Coordinators to track deliverables, incorporate feedback from contractor and U.S. Government reviewers, and prepare final visual materials for approval.
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Additional special projects may include developing branded templates, creating infographics, designing visual aids for training materials, producing content for PowerPoint presentations, and supporting other program operations as needed.
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Work will be conducted on\-site Monday through Friday in Kingstowne, Virginia. Normal business hours run from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM with a one\-hour unpaid lunch break. This position is generally ineligible for telework.
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While an active clearance is required, work will generally be unclassified or Sensitive But Unclassified (SBU). Because of the nature of the Department of State's global operations, meetings may be scheduled at early hours to accommodate overseas time zones.
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Requirements<\/h3>

Candidates must possess a minimum SECRET clearance or higher.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Proficiency in industry\-standard graphic design software such as the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) or equivalent tools (e.g., Affinity Designer, CorelDRAW, Figma).
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience designing graphics, illustrations, diagrams, and visual layouts for technical materials, manuals, and publications.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience with style guides, branding standards, and formatting requirements for professional documentation.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Familiarity with interpreting engineering drawings, technical diagrams, and system schematics to develop accurate visual representations.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience creating and editing PowerPoint presentations with professional design standards.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ability to collaborate effectively with departmental and technical staff across multiple disciplines.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting tight deadlines.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Strong portfolio demonstrating the ability to translate complex information into clear, visually compelling designs.
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Other Requirements<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Bachelor's degree in graphic design, visual communications, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>2+ years of experience in graphic design, visual communications, or a related creative role.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience working with government organizations.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Previous experience or a strong understanding of the Department of State is a plus.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience with video editing or motion graphics is a plus.
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Benefits<\/h3>\n
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\n Imperative Systems offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team members and their families:<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Choice of Platinum or Gold level PPO or High\-Deductible health insurance plans
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Dental & Vision Insurance
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>401(k) with employer matching contributions
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Paid Time Off
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Life Insurance & Disability
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Continuing Education
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Performance Recognition
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Salary:<\/span><\/span> <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b>Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.<\/span><\/span> <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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\n Imperative Systems, LLC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our commitment to excellence and mission success.
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