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Graphics Programming Salary Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

In this role, you'll interface directly with both engineering and creative teams to ensure all ... Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for ...

Lead Software Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

... technology or graphics programming background to complement it. You are solutions oriented ... The annualized base salary range for this position in California is $180,000- $200,000. The base ...

Motion Graphics Producer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Interface directly with engineering, creative, and communication teams to identify priority ... Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for ...

Showing results 21-40

Graphics Programming Salary information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graphics programmer?

To thrive as a Graphics Programmer, you need strong proficiency in computer graphics concepts, C++ programming, and mathematics, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with graphics APIs such as DirectX, OpenGL, or Vulkan, and experience with shader development tools, are typically required. Creativity, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for developing visually stunning, efficient, and innovative graphics systems in games, simulations, or other interactive applications.

Are graphics programmers in demand?

Graphics programmers are in high demand in industries such as gaming, virtual reality, and visual effects, where expertise in graphics APIs like DirectX or OpenGL and programming languages like C++ are valued. The role often requires strong technical skills and knowledge of real-time rendering, with job growth driven by advancements in interactive media and entertainment technology.

What are some common challenges graphics programmers face when working on real-time rendering projects?

Graphics programmers working on real-time rendering often encounter challenges such as optimizing performance for various hardware platforms, balancing visual fidelity with frame rates, and integrating new rendering techniques. They must also troubleshoot complex bugs related to graphical artifacts or memory usage, and maintain compatibility with evolving graphics APIs. Collaboration with artists and game designers is crucial to ensure technical solutions align with creative vision while meeting project deadlines.

What is the difference between Graphics Programming Salary vs Game Developer Salary?

AspectGraphics Programming SalaryGame Developer Salary
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, specialized in graphics or related fieldsBachelor's in Computer Science, software engineering, or game design
Work EnvironmentTech companies, animation studios, simulation firmsGame studios, entertainment companies, indie developers
Industry UsageFocuses on rendering, visual effects, and graphics enginesInvolves game design, programming, and interactive development

Graphics Programming Salary typically involves specialized skills in rendering and visual effects, often requiring a background in graphics APIs and mathematics. Game Developer Salary covers broader game design and programming tasks, with a focus on gameplay mechanics and user experience. Both roles are vital in the gaming and entertainment industry, but they differ in focus and skill set.

What is the average salary for a graphics programmer?

The average salary for a graphics programmer varies based on experience, location, and industry, but in the United States, it typically ranges from $80,000 to $140,000 per year. Entry-level graphics programmers might earn closer to $70,000, while those with several years of experience or specialized skills in areas like real-time rendering or game engines can command salaries upwards of $150,000. Salaries may be higher in major tech hubs or for roles in the gaming and entertainment industries.
What are popular job titles related to Graphics Programming Salary jobs in California? For Graphics Programming Salary jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graphics Programming Salary jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Graphics Programming Salary jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Graphics Programming Salary jobs? Cities in California with the most Graphics Programming Salary job openings:

System Software Engineer - GPU

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$203K - $240K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 23 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

We are seeking a System Software Engineer to work on next-generation computing and graphics products. Our charter is to build low level GPU testing frameworks to validate GPUs early in the life cycle. The best candidates will have strong C++ programming skills, thorough knowledge of GPU concepts and algorithms, a solid foundation of systems software with emphasis on OS fundamentals, and a deep understanding of current generation hardware architecture. Excellent interpersonal skills and a dedication to meticulous engineering practices are a requirement. As a system software engineer, you will use your knowledge of operating systems, algorithms, and computer architecture to provide robust and efficient solutions to validate and test next generation processors.
What you'll be doing:
  • Working closely with architecture, hardware and driver teams through the product development life cycle of computing and graphics processors, as well as compute products.
  • Responsible for crafting software tools and infrastructure required for new chip development, validation, and productization.
  • Architect and develop foundational capabilities required for Data Center and Consumer GPU diagnostics.
  • You will assess new hardware features and architect manufacturing diagnostic tests using pre-beta CUDA and Vulkan extensions. This job will require an understanding of our hardware and software architectures.
  • Explore ways to use high level compute & graphics programming APIs to stress specific units and flows at a GPU and system level.
  • Leverage AI-assisted development tools to accelerate test creation, debugging, and analysis while maintaining high code quality.
  • Apply AI/ML techniques to improve test coverage, failure triage, log analysis, and overall validation efficiency.
  • Collaborate with the team to identify opportunities for agent-based or automated workflows that improve developer velocity and reliability.

What we need to see:
  • BS or MS degree in one of the areas of Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science (or equivalent experience)
  • 5+ years proven experience in a related hardware/software position
  • Strong C/C++ programming skills
  • Understanding of PC architecture, and ability to work close to the hardware
  • Background with Parallel Computing, PCIE, Nvlink or server product technologies like Infiniband, Ethernet is a plus.
  • Experience utilizing AI tools to improve velocity while delivering the highest quality results.
  • Familiarity with modern AI-assisted software development workflows (e.g., AI-based code generation, test generation, debugging, or analysis).
  • Previous experience of working on a large system software code base is preferable
  • Very strong problem solving and debugging skills
  • Ability to self-manage, show leadership, and have good interpersonal skills

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 152,000 USD - 241,500 USD for Level 3, and 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 12, 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

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Nvidia logo

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