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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Livermore, CA (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer, Linux Graphics

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

We are now looking for a Linux Graphics Software Engineer! NVIDIA's invention of the GPU in 1999 fueled the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized ...

Senior Software Engineer, ICX Graphics

Mountain View, CA · Hybrid

$165K - $204K/yr

Graphics or game engine developer with strong experience in 3D graphics development using C++ and APIs like OpenGL ES or Vulkan. * Experience with mobile/embedded platforms, custom rendering engines ...

Showing results 21-40

Graphics Programmer information

See Livermore, CA salary details

$129.6K

$158.4K

$183.6K

How much do graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programmer in Livermore, CA is $158,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,600.00 and $170,100.00 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 cities near Livermore, CA are hiring for Graphics Programmer jobs? Cities near Livermore, CA with the most Graphics Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer job openings in Livermore, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,353 per year, or $76.1 per hour.

Senior Machine Learning Graphics Engineer, AI for Experiences

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 242 rated software companies


Job description

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology-and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent. As an NVIDIAN, you'll be immersed in a diverse, supportive environment where everyone is inspired to do their best work. Come join the team and see how you can make a lasting impact on the world.

NVIDIA is searching for a world-class engineer in graphics and AI to join our neural graphics product team. If you agree with us that the most exciting thing about the AI revolution is applying it to solve real problems, this team will be an excellent fit for you! We are passionate about applications in generative AI, gaming, augmented reality, user-generated content, computer vision, and other areas, with the goal of improving visual fidelity, gameplay, or other domains within the gaming and pro-visualization markets. Working with other teams throughout the company, you will productize promising research, as well as develop new features through your own work.

What you'll be doing:

  • Use AI for solving product problems in gaming and other interactive experiences.

  • Build upon the latest research to create new models and invent new ways of applying AI to advance neural graphics and gaming.

  • Create prototypes to demonstrate real-life applications of your ideas and to accelerate productization.

  • Keep up with the latest AI/DL research and collaborate with diverse teams (both internal and external to NVIDIA), including AI/DL researchers, hardware architects, and software engineers.

  • Participate in technology transfers to and from teams across NVIDIA.

What we need to see:

  • Master's in computer science/engineering, Machine Learning, AI, and related fields (or equivalent experience)

  • 12+ years of machine learning / deep learning research or work experience

  • Knowledge of application areas such as real-time computer graphics, CV, and game development.

  • Expertise with programming systems such as Python, C+, CUDA, and deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow and PyTorch. Very strong programming skills.

  • A proven track record of delivering complex products and technologies spanning multiple teams and functional areas.

Intelligent machines powered by AI computers that can learn, reason, and interact with people are no longer science fiction. Image recognition and speech recognition - GPU deep learning has provided the foundation for machines to learn, perceive, reason, and solve problems. The GPU started out as the engine for simulating human imagination, conjuring up the amazing virtual worlds of video games and Hollywood films. Now, NVIDIA's GPU runs deep learning algorithms, simulating human intelligence, and acts as the brain of computers, robots and self-driving cars that can perceive and understand the world. Just as human imagination and intelligence are linked, computer graphics and artificial intelligence come together in our architecture. Two modes of the human brain, two modes of the GPU. This may explain why NVIDIA GPUs are used broadly for deep learning, and NVIDIA is known as "the AI computing company."

Widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers, NVIDIA offers highly competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. As you plan your future, see what we can offer to you and your family www.nvidiabenefits.com

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5, and 272,000 USD - 431,250 USD for Level 6.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 20, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

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About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993