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Hlsl Programming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aquent

Realtime Graphics Developer

California, MO · Remote

$125K - $154K/yr

Experience with OpenGL, Vulkan, GLSL, or HLSL is valuable. Metal proficiency is ideal. Success in ... concurrent programming, debugging, and performance optimization Comfortable building shaders ...

PlayStation Global

Sr Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Experience with GPU programming (HLSL, Vulkan, CUDA) with proven skills in profiling, debugging, and optimizations across CPU and GPU. * AI/ML modeling and training experience * Embedded system ...

1 point system

C/C++ Developer

New York, NY · Remote

$50.25 - $67.50/hr

... HLSL & SPIRV. • Hands-on experience with profiling tools (PIX, RGP, GPUView, WPA/WPR) and interpreting timing/counter data. • Programming skills in C/C++ with ability to read and reason about ...

Qualcomm

GPU Systems Driver Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

... programming experience such as OpenGL, Vulkan, D3D11, D3D12, GLSL or HLSL. Minimum Skills for Staff Engineer and above • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related ...

PlayStation Global

Sr Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$193K - $289K/yr

Experience with GPU programming (HLSL, Vulkan, CUDA) with proven skills in profiling, debugging, and optimizations across CPU and GPU. * AI/ML modeling and training experience * Embedded system ...

Stardock

Senior Graphics Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

We are currently seeking a full-time Senior Graphics Engineer to work on our next generation game ... Strong proficiency in 3D math, linear algebra, shaders, HLSL/GLSL, physically based rendering ...

Stardock Corporation

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 ... Strong proficiency in 3D math, linear algebra, shaders, HLSL/GLSL, physically based rendering ...

Stardock Corporation

Senior Game Developer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Stardock is currently seeking a talented Senior Game Developer. The ideal candidate is well versed ... HLSL/GLSL shaders, pipelines, terrain. * Able to learn new technology quickly and execute on a ...

2K

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Novato, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $174K/yr

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge ... Advanced proficiency in HLSL or a comparable shading language * Strong grasp of 3D math concepts ...

Visual Concepts

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Novato, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $174K/yr

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge ... Advanced proficiency in HLSL or a comparable shading language * Strong grasp of 3D math concepts ...

2K

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Novato, CA · On-site

$120K - $174K/yr

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge ... Advanced proficiency in HLSL or a comparable shading language * Strong grasp of 3D math concepts ...

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Hlsl Programming information

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$30K

$156.3K

$206K

How much do hlsl programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for hlsl programming in the United States is $156,348.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an HLSL Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an HLSL Programmer, you need strong proficiency in shader programming, computer graphics fundamentals, and a solid understanding of linear algebra, typically supported by experience with DirectX or similar APIs. Familiarity with tools like Visual Studio, graphics debuggers, and source control systems, as well as knowledge of GPU architectures, is highly valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for optimizing graphics performance and collaborating with artists and developers. These competencies ensure the creation of efficient, visually stunning graphics and seamless integration within game or simulation development pipelines.

What is the difference between Hlsl Programming vs Shader Developer?

AspectHlsl ProgrammingShader Developer
Required CredentialsKnowledge of HLSL, graphics programmingProficiency in shader languages (HLSL, GLSL), graphics APIs
Work EnvironmentGame studios, graphics software, real-time renderingGame development, visual effects, simulation
Industry UsageDirectly used in graphics programming for renderingDesigning and implementing shaders for visual effects
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on HLSL coding skillsBroader shader development skills including multiple languages

Hlsl Programming primarily involves writing shaders using HLSL for real-time graphics rendering, often within game engines or graphics applications. Shader Developers may work with multiple shader languages and focus on creating complex visual effects. While Hlsl Programming is specialized in HLSL, Shader Developers have a broader scope, including GLSL and other shading languages, making their roles more versatile in graphics development.

What is HLSL programming?

HLSL (High-Level Shading Language) programming involves writing code for shaders, which are small programs that run on a graphics processing unit (GPU) to control the rendering of graphics in applications, primarily games and real-time 3D environments. HLSL is used with Microsoft's DirectX API to create effects like lighting, shadows, and textures. Programmers use HLSL to write vertex, pixel, and compute shaders, allowing for advanced visual effects and optimized graphics performance. Learning HLSL is essential for game developers and graphics programmers working on Windows platforms.

What are some common challenges faced by HLSL programmers when optimizing shader performance, and how can they be addressed?

HLSL programmers often encounter challenges related to balancing visual quality with real-time rendering performance, especially when working with complex shaders or targeting multiple hardware platforms. Common issues include managing GPU resource usage, avoiding costly operations like dynamic branching, and minimizing texture fetches. To address these, programmers typically profile their shaders, use efficient algorithms, and leverage built-in HLSL optimizations. Collaborating closely with artists and graphics engineers is also crucial to ensure that shader code aligns with both aesthetic goals and technical constraints.
Infographic showing various Hlsl Programming job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 2% As Needed, 74% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 15% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,348 per year, or $75.2 per hour.
Realtime Graphics Developer

Realtime Graphics Developer

Aquent

California, MO • Remote

$125K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Client Location: Remote in Culver City, Cupertino or NYC Starting: ASAP Pay Comments: W2, weekly pay, benefits, 401k w/ match Minimum Pay (per hour): 120.00 Maximum Pay (per hour): 125.50 Hours: Full-time Duration: 12 months Job Description: We're looking for an experienced and passionate graphics engineer to design and build realtime visual effects, prototypes, and creative tools. In this role, you'll collaborate closely with designers, producers, creative directors, and engineers to conceive, implement, and refine Metal-based visual effects used across apps and frameworks. You'll translate visual ideas and look-dev references into performant, reusable rendering solutions — combining technical precision with a strong sense for visual quality and composition.

You should bring deep expertise in modern rendering pipelines and comfort moving between creative experimentation and low‐level optimization. A strong understanding of ray tracing, ray marching, volumetric rendering, and general 3D graphics fundamentals is essential. Experience with OpenGL, Vulkan, GLSL, or HLSL is valuable.

Metal proficiency is ideal. Success in this role requires not only technical mastery but also a strong visual sensibility — the ability to interpret creative direction and shape the lok and feel of real‐time effects. Key Qualifications 10+ years of experience with real-time graphics and rendering pipelines Strong knowledge of Metal Shading Language (MSL) or equivalent shader languages (OpenGL/GLSL/HLSL/Vulkan) Understanding of ray tracing, ray marching, volumetric rendering, and real-time lighting models Proficiency in Objective-C or C++ (Swift a plus) Experience with AppKit or UIKit environments Skilled in concurrent programming, debugging, and performance optimization Comfortable building shaders, pipelines, and tools used by non-engineering collaborators Proficient with Git and collaborative workflows Strong communication skills and ability to bridge creative and technical perspectives Familiarity with content creation tools such as TouchDesigner, Houdini, or Reality Composer Pro Demonstrated success in large-scale or cross-disciplinary content pipelines Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with Core Animation, Core Graphics, USD, or SceneKit Experience building apps end-to-end on Apple platforms #J-18808-Ljbffr

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