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Graphics Programming Salary Jobs in Washington, DC

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Graphics Programming Salary information

See Washington, DC salary details

$125.2K

$152.9K

$177.3K

How much do graphics programming salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programming salary in Washington, DC is $152,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,600.00 and $164,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Graphics Programming Salary jobs in Washington, DC?

For Graphics Programming Salary jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Graphics Developer/Designer

Peraton

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 224 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Intelligence is only as effective as its ability to communicate - and at USCYBERCOM, that means transforming complex, multi-source analysis into compelling visual products that inform decisions at the highest levels. Peraton is seeking a Graphics Developer/Designer to support USCYBERCOM J2 intelligence production at Fort Meade, MD, providing expert graphic design and layout solutions that bring analytic content to life across interactive, multimedia, and finished intelligence products.

In this role, you'll work hand-in-hand with analysts and subject matter experts to understand their requirements and translate complex intelligence into clear, visually compelling products - from diagrams and infographics to multimedia presentations and high-visibility finished intelligence. You'll manage the full production lifecycle, from concept through publication, ensuring every product meets IC style standards and is optimized for its intended audience.

This is a senior-level role for a creative professional who combines deep expertise in professional design tools with a working knowledge of the intelligence production environment - and who understands that in this mission space, how information looks is as important as what it says.

What You'll Do
  • Provide graphic design and layout solutions for intelligence products, including developing illustrations, editing existing images, managing fonts, and applying advanced pre-publication techniques
  • Integrate graphics with text, audio, and video to support interactive and multimedia high-visibility finished intelligence products
  • Develop graphics and diagrams associated with USCYBERCOM J2 intelligence production
  • Work collaboratively with analysts to understand requirements and enhance analytic thoughts through graphic and layout solutions
  • Research and collect information from internal and external stakeholder subject matter experts
  • Analyze, interpret, and cross-check information for accuracy; organize information and determine optimum presentation methods
  • Ensure current style guides and applicable publications policies are followed
  • Supervise the production process for completed materials across digital and print media
  • Document Operating Instructions (OIs) for Command-wide programs and initiatives as assigned

#USCCJ2

QualificationsWhat You Bring

Required:

  • Active Top Secret/SCI (TS/SCI) clearance with Polygraph
  • Minimum of 16 years w/oa degree or 14 years with AS/AA or 12 years with BS/BA or 10 years with MS/MA or 7 years with Phd
  • Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and After Effects)
  • Experience with Apple Final Cut Pro X for video production and editing
  • Proficiency with Apple Mac hardware platforms
  • Working knowledge of graphic design principles, layout design, and IC/DoD classification guidelines
  • Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality visual products for intelligence and defense audiences
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively with analysts and subject matter experts

Preferred:

  • Background in intelligence product design, infographic development, or multimedia production
  • Experience producing graphics for classified intelligence products in accordance with IC style guides
  • Familiarity with IC publication standards and finished intelligence product formats
  • 12+ years of relevant experience, including work within the last 2 years
  • Master's degree in a related field - or a Bachelor's degree plus 5 additional years of senior-level experience (17 years total)

Peraton drives missions of consequence - protecting and promoting U.S. national security at the highest levels. As part of our team, you'll work alongside some of the most skilled professionals in the intelligence community, tackling complex problems that matter. We offer a culture that values your expertise and invests in your growth.

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017