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Remote Shader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Remote Shader information

What are Remote Shaders?

Remote Shaders are specialized computer graphics professionals who develop, optimize, and troubleshoot shader programs, typically for video games, visual effects, or real-time rendering applications, while working remotely. Shaders are small programs that run on a GPU to control the rendering of images and visual effects. Remote Shaders use their expertise in shader languages such as GLSL, HLSL, or Cg to create realistic lighting, shadowing, and other visual effects from a remote location. Their work is crucial for producing visually compelling graphics in modern digital media.

What are some common challenges faced by Remote Shader Developers, and how can they be addressed?

Remote Shader Developers often face challenges related to communication and collaboration, as shader programming requires close coordination with artists, designers, and other developers. Debugging and testing shaders remotely can also be complex due to differences in hardware and graphics APIs. To overcome these challenges, it's important to establish clear communication channels, use version control systems effectively, and regularly share test builds to ensure consistency across team members' environments. Additionally, proactive documentation of shader code and regular virtual check-ins can help maintain alignment and address issues promptly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Shader, and why are they important?

To excel as a Remote Shader, you need a solid understanding of computer graphics, shading languages (like GLSL or HLSL), and a background in mathematics or computer science. Familiarity with tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, or proprietary rendering engines, and experience with version control systems like Git are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective remote communication, and a collaborative mindset make candidates stand out. These skills ensure the efficient creation and optimization of high-quality visual effects while maintaining smooth workflow in distributed teams.

What is the difference between Remote Shader vs Remote 3D Artist?

AspectRemote ShaderRemote 3D Artist
Required SkillsShader programming, GLSL/HLSL, graphics APIsModeling, texturing, rendering, 3D software proficiency
Work EnvironmentPrimarily focused on coding and graphics programmingDesign, modeling, and visual creation in 3D software
Industry UsageVideo games, visual effects, real-time renderingGames, animation, product visualization
Common Search IntentShader development, graphics programming jobs3D modeling, visual artist roles

Remote Shader roles focus on developing and optimizing shaders for graphics rendering, requiring programming skills in graphics APIs. Remote 3D Artists create visual assets using modeling and texturing tools. While both work in the digital art and gaming industry, shaders are more technical, whereas 3D artists focus on visual design and modeling.

What are the most commonly searched types of Shader jobs in California? The most popular types of Shader jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Shader jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Shader jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Remote Shader jobs? Cities in California with the most Remote Shader job openings:
GPU Programming Expert - Fully Remote | Upto $120/hr

GPU Programming Expert - Fully Remote | Upto $120/hr

Mercor

San Francisco, CA • Remote

$120/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: CUDA Engineering Expert
Type: Contract
Compensation: $80–$120/hour
Location: Remote

Role Responsibilities

  • Analyze and optimize GPU kernels for performance, efficiency, and hardware utilization.
  • Use profiler metrics like L2 cache hit rate, L2 throughput, and occupancy to guide kernel improvements.
  • Review GPU kernel implementations to identify bottlenecks without needing extensive algorithmic background.
  • Write, modify, and reason about C++17, Python, and GPU programming code.
  • Apply CUDA, HIP, and shader programming expertise to improve performance outcomes.
  • Document optimization decisions clearly, noting when specific profiler metrics are useful.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • Available to work at least 20 hrs/wk.
  • Fluent in core C++ features through C++17.
  • Working knowledge of Python and Git.
  • Fluent in at least one GPU programming model like CUDA, HIP, Slang, HLSL, or GLSL.
  • At least 1 year of professional or graduate-level research experience with GPUs.
  • Strong understanding of GPU profiler performance metrics for kernel optimization.
  • Ability to optimize GPU kernels without deep prior context on every algorithm.

Preferred

  • Experience with CUDA, HIP, CUDA C++ Core Libraries, inline PTX assembly, or tensor core-level optimization.
  • Experience optimizing kernels for NVIDIA Blackwell hardware.
  • Familiarity with NSight Compute.
  • Prior experience with GPU hardware organizations like NVIDIA, AMD, or Qualcomm.
  • Open-source contributions related to GPU kernel optimization.

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Submit your resume or relevant technical background to get started.
  • Qualified applicants may be asked to complete a brief technical assessment or submit additional information.

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.