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Graphics Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Graphics Software Engineer

Austin, TX

$138K - $171K/yr

... the software graphics pipeline and its application to computer graphics and / or ML, through relevant coursework or industry experience. Experience with GPU programming via OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal ...

Graphics Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$138K - $171K/yr

Experience with C++ programming. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated knowledge of the software graphics pipeline and its application to computer graphics and / or ML, through relevant coursework or ...

Graphics Software Engineer, Staff

San Diego, CA · On-site

$148K - $183K/yr

Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Graphics Software Engineering General Summary: As a leading technology innovator, Qualcomm pushes the boundaries of what's possible to enable next-generation ...

Graphics Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$138K - $171K/yr

As part of our Silicon Engineering team, you'll help develop and manufacture our next-generation ... Demonstrated knowledge of the software graphics pipeline and its application to computer graphics ...

Graphics Software Engineer

Austin, TX

$138K - $171K/yr

... the software graphics pipeline and its application to computer graphics and / or ML, through relevant coursework or industry experience. Experience with GPU programming via OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal ...

Graphics Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$138K - $171K/yr

Experience with C++ programming. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated knowledge of the software graphics pipeline and its application to computer graphics and / or ML, through relevant coursework or ...

Graphics Software Engineer

College Park, MD

$138K - $171K/yr

... software engineer to own the full development stack. This position requires passion for real-time ... Strong academic record with relevant coursework in real-time graphics, computer vision, XR ...

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Graphics Software Engineer information

See salary details

$138.5K

$162.1K

$174.5K

How much do graphics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphics software engineer in the United States is $162,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do graphic software engineers make?

Graphic software engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Skilled professionals with expertise in graphics programming, rendering, and related tools like OpenGL or DirectX tend to earn higher salaries.

What does a graphic software engineer do?

A graphics software engineer designs, develops, and maintains software related to computer graphics, such as rendering engines, visualization tools, or graphical user interfaces. They often work with programming languages like C++ or Python and use graphics APIs such as OpenGL or DirectX to create visual content and optimize graphical performance. Strong knowledge of algorithms, mathematics, and graphics principles is essential for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Graphics Software Engineer?

Graphics Software Engineers typically spend their days designing, implementing, and optimizing rendering algorithms and graphics features for applications such as games, simulations, or visualization tools. They work closely with cross-functional teams including artists, designers, and other software engineers to ensure smooth integration of visual assets and technical features. Routine tasks often include debugging visual issues, profiling performance bottlenecks, and staying current with the latest graphics technology advancements. Collaboration, code reviews, and iterative problem-solving are also important parts of the daily workflow to ensure high-quality visual results.

What is a Graphics Software Engineer job?

A Graphics Software Engineer develops and optimizes software that processes and renders graphics for applications such as video games, simulations, and visual computing. They work with technologies like GPUs, APIs (OpenGL, Vulkan, DirectX), and shaders to enhance rendering performance and visual quality. Their role often involves low-level programming, algorithm development, and collaboration with artists and other engineers to create efficient and visually stunning graphics solutions.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, including those working in specialized fields like graphics software engineering, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially at senior levels or in leadership roles at large tech companies. Achieving this salary typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often stock options or bonuses.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior graphics software engineers, especially those with extensive experience, expertise in graphics APIs, and proficiency in languages like C++ and shader programming, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with roles in large tech companies, specialized industries, or positions requiring advanced skills and leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Graphics Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graphics Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (typically in C++ or similar languages), a solid understanding of computer graphics principles, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with graphics APIs (like OpenGL, DirectX, or Vulkan), shader languages, and possibly certifications in game or graphics development are highly valued. Attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and effective collaboration are important soft skills in this role. These capabilities enable the engineer to efficiently develop high-performance rendering systems and work seamlessly with artists, designers, and other engineers.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Graphics Software Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Graphics Software Engineer jobs? The top employers for Graphics Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Graphics Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Graphics Software Engineer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Graphics Software Engineer jobs? For Graphics Software Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Graphics Software Engineer

$139K - $172K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Are you looking for a unique opportunity to impact significant advances to the nation's groundbreaking integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) systems?

Are you an engineer driven to expand your skills in order to solve both current and emerging needs of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC)?

Would you like to join a team of skilled engineers and scientists to develop Electro-Optical (EO)/Infrared (IR) simulation capabilities?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a creative, driven, and motivated software engineer to help invent, build, and sustain engineering rendering software for producing complex scenes, objects, and simulation-derived data. You will join a hardworking, multidisciplinary team that develops high-impact engineering capabilities for programs of national importance. As a member of our team, you will collaborate with engineers, scientists, and analysts to advance rendering methods that support analysis, simulation, and assessment of complex operational systems.

As a Graphics Software Engineer, you will:
  • Develop multispectral rendering methodologies for Electro-Optical/Infrared, and related applications grounded by physical phenomenology.
  • Contribute to a broad variety of tasks across the codebase, such as user interface, continuous integration, and non-graphics features.
  • Optimize at the application and shader level to achieve peak performance in both latency and throughput.
  • Diagnose and debug graphics, performance, memory, numerical, and integration issues in Linux and/or Windows development environments.
  • Provide technical leadership for graphics techniques, implementation planning, code quality, testing strategy, and long-term maintainability.
  • Mentor other developers and help establish effective graphics and scientific software development practices.
  • Work on a small team to create high-impact software capabilities for challenging national security problems.
  • Communicate technical approaches, trade-offs, progress, and results to project teams, technical leadership, and sponsors.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Possess a BS with 8+ years, an MS with 6+ years, or a PhD with 3+ years of experience in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical field, developing graphics, rendering, simulation, game-engine, or other GPU rendering software.
  • Have experience working effectively in large codebases.
  • Have direct experience with Vulkan, OpenGL, DirectX, or comparable modern graphics APIs, with demonstrated ability to design, implement, and debug rendering pipelines.
  • Are proficient in C++ and comfortable developing performance-sensitive software.
  • Have experience with graphics concepts such as rendering pipelines, shaders, buffers, textures, camera models, coordinate transforms, lighting, materials, or scene management.
  • Are comfortable solving problems in 3D geometry using linear algebra.
  • Can work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative technical team.
  • Have demonstrated experience in GPU programming, shader optimization, real-time rendering performance analysis, or graphics pipeline profiling.
  • Can communicate technical ideas clearly through documentation, presentations, and technical discussions.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually