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Graphics Programming Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Graphics Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $154K/yr

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge ... Below are the expected salary and wage ranges for applicants based in locations where the pay ...

Graphics Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$120K - $154K/yr

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge ... Below are the expected salary and wage ranges for applicants based in locations where the pay ...

Neural Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

Familiarity with graphics APIs (Vulkan, OpenGL, DirectX), shader programming (Slang, HLSL, GLSL), or compiler development Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and ...

Neural Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$163K - $201K/yr

Familiarity with graphics APIs (Vulkan, OpenGL, DirectX), shader programming (Slang, HLSL, GLSL), or compiler development Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and ...

Neural Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

Familiarity with graphics APIs (Vulkan, OpenGL, DirectX), shader programming (Slang, HLSL, GLSL), or compiler development Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and ...

Senior Graphics Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

We are currently seeking a full-time Senior Graphics Engineer to work on our next generation game ... This is a salaried, full-time position at our Plymouth, Michigan office and relocation assistance ...

We are currently seeking a full-time Senior Graphics Engineer to work on our next generation game ... This is a salaried, full-time position at our Plymouth, Michigan office and relocation assistance ...

We are looking for a Senior/Staff Graphics Software Engineer to join the Platform Software team and ... The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 - $275,000 annually. The ...

Showing results 21-40

Graphics Programming Salary information

See salary details

$110.5K

$135K

$156.5K

How much do graphics programming salary jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics programming salary in the United States is $135,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,000.00 and $145,000.00 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.

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What cities are hiring for Graphics Programming Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Graphics Programming Salary job openings:

What states have the most Graphics Programming Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Graphics Programming Salary jobs include:

Infographic showing various Graphics Programming Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,000 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Graphics Engineer

2K

Novato, CA • On-site, Remote

$120K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

At Visual Concepts, we believe great games are made by diverse and empowered teams with a shared passion for play. As one of the world's top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to critical acclaim and commercial success. Our teams are independent and entrepreneurial. Our studios in Novato, Irvine, Budapest, Shanghai, Austin, Boise, Seoul, and Parksville, Canada are committed to artistry and technical innovation, offering top candidates the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the smartest and most creative minds in the industry.

 What We Need:

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge rendering technology. In this role, you'll work on the design, development, and maintenance of high-performance C/C++ code and HLSL shaders, contributing directly to the visual fidelity of our games. If you're a creative problem solver who thrives on pushing the boundaries of real-time graphics and enjoys collaborating in a high-caliber engineering environment, we want to hear from you. This position reports to the Lead Graphics Engineer.

 What You Will Do:
  • Explore and implement new rendering technologies to elevate visual quality 
  • Optimize GPU performance to support smooth, high-fidelity gameplay 
  • Partner with art and design teams to define and enhance the look and feel of the NBA 2K series 
  • Work on improvements in VFX, lighting, and post-processing graphics features
  • Participate in system-wide upgrade initiatives to keep our rendering tech current
 Who Will Be A Great Fit:
  • Most importantly: thoughtful, passionate, and driven 
  • 3+ years of experience in game or graphics development 
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent professional experience 
  • Advanced proficiency in HLSL or a comparable shading language 
  • Strong grasp of 3D math concepts and applications 
  • Deep understanding of optimization techniques and trade-offs 
  • Demonstrate ability to write efficient, portable, reliable, and readable code 
  • Fluent in English, both written and verbal
  • Love for video games (not just ours!)
 Might Be Nice:
  • Experience shipping a AAA title 
  • Deep expertise in areas such as physically-based rendering, real-time global illumination, post-processing effects, or simulating natural phenomena 
  • Familiarity with applying machine learning techniques to graphics-related challenges

This is a fully remote role that may be based anywhere in the United States. Below are the expected salary and wage ranges for applicants based in locations where the pay transparency law is in effect: California: $120,000 - $154,300 per year. New York State (inclusive of New York City): $108,000 - $138,800 per year. Washington: $120,000 - $154,300 per year. New Jersey: $108,000 - $138,800 per year. British Columbia: $85,700 - $114,300 (CAD) per year.  Base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an 'at-will position' and the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website at www.vcentertainment.com