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Graphics Programmer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Carrier

Controls Project Engineer - HVAC

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$79K - $158K/yr

The Controls Programmer is responsible for the successful overall software design of projects ... Conduct graphics engineering functions which include creating equipment and floor plan graphics per ...

The Zippertubing Company

Graphic Designer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

As a small, agile manufacturing organization, our team works closely across engineering, production ... Create visually appealing graphics for various marketing materials, including but not limited to ...

Havel

Controls Programmer

Phoenix, AZ

$18 - $35/hr

Job Summary Havel is seeking a Programmer to lead installation, hardware design, and software ... Responsible for graphics building * Check out of HVAC control systems and wiring * Complete the ...

Belcan

Avionics Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$80K - $135K/yr

We are seeking an Avionics Software Engineer with at least 5 years of experience and have in depth experience in designing, developing, and optimizing real-time graphics software for safety-critical ...

CDM Smith

Senior Graphic Designer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$62K - $85K/yr

Populating and maintaining graphics databases. * Coordinating and/or directing in-house or external ... Prior experience working for an architectural or engineering firm. * The ability to complete tasks ...

EMCOR Group Inc

Mesa Energy Systems, Inc.

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Design, Graphics, Programming, Start-up, Commissioning, procurement and As-builts. • Lead team meetings as needed • Enforces required safety and vehicle documentation per company policies. • ...

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All JobsGraphics Programmer JobsGraphics Programmer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Graphics Programmer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$109.7K

$134K

$155.4K

How much do graphics programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programmer in Phoenix, AZ is $134,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,100.00 and $144,000.00 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 Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
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What job categories do people searching Graphics Programmer jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Graphics Programmer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
Graphics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graphics Programmer job openings in Phoenix, AZ 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 $134,042 per year, or $64.4 per hour.

Senior Embedded Graphics Software Engineer

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Phoenix, AZ • On-site, Remote

$123K - $161K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Join the elite team at QDSS, where our engineers are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge Aerospace, Defense, Space, and Medical Device products. Your work will make a real impact, contributing to the core of engineering solutions that drive technological advancements. 

Quest Defense is seeking a Senior Embedded Graphics Software Engineer to support the development, modernization, and sustainment of graphics software for advanced avionics display systems. This role will focus on graphics driver development, graphics middleware, rendering technologies, and performance optimization within safety-critical embedded environments.

The ideal candidate will bring deep experience developing graphics software on embedded platforms, including OpenGL-based solutions, graphics drivers, display technologies, and real-time operating systems. This individual will work closely with platform, systems, and hardware engineering teams to enhance graphics performance, support legacy display modernization efforts, and help advance next-generation avionics display capabilities.

Hybrid work in Phoenix, AZ is preferred; however, qualified remote candidates will be considered. U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Resident status is required.

Key Responsibilities:   

  • Design, develop, integrate, and maintain graphics drivers, graphics middleware, and embedded graphics software supporting avionics display systems.
  • Support the modernization and enhancement of legacy graphics software and display technologies for safety-critical aerospace applications.
  • Develop and optimize OpenGL-based graphics solutions for embedded and real-time operating environments.
  • Collaborate with platform, systems, and hardware engineering teams to ensure efficient interaction between graphics software, GPUs, processors, memory, and display hardware.
  • Analyze and optimize graphics performance across multi-core processor architectures, including CPU/GPU shared resource utilization.
  • Investigate and resolve software performance issues related to memory architecture, cache behavior, rendering performance, and system throughput.
  • Support software integration, verification, debugging, and testing activities throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Participate in software architecture, design reviews, technical trade studies, and graphics technology evaluations.
  • Develop technical documentation and engineering artifacts in support of software development and certification activities.
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership in embedded graphics and graphics driver development.

Required Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 10+ years of experience developing software for embedded and/or real-time systems.
  • Strong experience developing embedded graphics software using OpenGL or similar graphics APIs.
  • Experience developing graphics drivers, display drivers, or GPU-related software
  • Experience working within DO-178B and/or DO-178C software development environments for safety-critical aerospace systems.
  • Strong programming experience in C/C++ within embedded and real-time operating system environments.
  • Experience working with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) in embedded environments. (DEOS highly preferred)
  • Working knowledge of multi-core processor architectures and their impact on software performance.
  • U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Experience with DEOS RTOS.
  • Experience supporting avionics display systems or aerospace embedded products.
  • Experience with CPU/GPU shared memory architectures and graphics performance optimization.
  • Familiarity with FAA certification requirements and multicore certification guidance.
  • Experience supporting legacy platform modernization efforts.
  • Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • Experience in the adoption and/or integration of emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation platforms, digital assistants) into day-to-day operations for continuous improvement.

The QDSS Advantage:  

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You'll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future. 

What You'll Find Here 

  • Work That Matters - Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact. 
  • Growth That's Supported - Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement. 
  • A Culture That Works - A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued. 

Benefits Include 

  • Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace.

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