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Senior Graphics Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

2K

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Novato, CA · On-site

$120K - $174K/yr

We welcome candidates across all experience levels, from junior to senior, with compensation based ... This position reports to the Lead Graphics Engineer. What You Will Do: * Explore and implement new ...

2K

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Novato, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $174K/yr

We welcome candidates across all experience levels, from junior to senior, with compensation based ... This position reports to the Lead Graphics Engineer. What You Will Do: * Explore and implement new ...

Visual Concepts

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Novato, CA · On-site

$120K - $174K/yr

We welcome candidates across all experience levels, from junior to senior, with compensation based ... This position reports to the Lead Graphics Engineer. What You Will Do: * Explore and implement new ...

Doen

Sr. Graphic Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

The Sr. Graphic Designer is responsible for overseeing and executing the conceptualization and ... Responsible for communication on website design changes, and working with developers to make sure ...

Nutanix

Senior Graphic Designer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$114K/yr

... Copywriters, Developers, and PMs to deliver cohesive brand work. • Manage multiple projects ... Senior Graphic Designer, ideally in-house at a tech or B2B company. • Mastery of typography ...

Rylo

Sr. Computer Graphics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

Developed by a team of former Instagram and Apple engineers, Rylo's breakthrough stabilization ... Demonstrated ability to research, design and implement graphic techniques. This includes features ...

Rylo

Sr. Computer Graphics Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$164K - $203K/yr

Developed by a team of former Instagram and Apple engineers, Rylo's breakthrough stabilization ... Demonstrated ability to research, design and implement graphic techniques. This includes features ...

IXL Learning

Senior Graphic Designer

San Mateo, CA

$110K - $130K/yr

IXL Learning, developer of personalized learning products used by millions of people globally, is seeking an enthusiastic, skilled, versatile Senior Graphic Designer to join our design team. In this ...

Qualcomm

Graphics Software Engineer, Staff

San Diego, CA · On-site

$148K - $183K/yr

Qualcomm Graphics Software Engineers architect, design, implement, verify, and optimize the ... interaction with senior leadership (e.g., Director and above). Principal Duties and ...

Ashtel Studios Inc

Senior Graphic Designer

Ontario, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Develop visual concepts, graphics, and layouts for digital assets * Create exciting branding and ... Proof color and packaging structural integrity and engineering * Present design concepts and ideas ...

NxT Level

Senior Tools Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

They currently need a programmer passionate about terrain and graphical tools. What are the responsibilities? * Develop and maintain tools for terrain and graphics within our game engine. Ensure that ...

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Senior Graphics Programmer information

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How much do senior graphics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior graphics programmer in California is $51.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.41 and $61.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Senior Graphics Programmer typically collaborate with other departments during a game development project?

A Senior Graphics Programmer works closely with artists, designers, and technical directors to ensure that visual features are both cutting-edge and feasible within the project's constraints. They often translate artistic visions into optimized, real-time rendering solutions and provide technical feedback on asset creation. Regular meetings and code reviews help align the graphics team's work with the broader development goals, while cross-discipline problem-solving is common to address performance or visual fidelity challenges. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as graphics programming decisions can significantly impact the gameplay experience and production timeline.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Graphics Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Graphics Programmer, you need advanced knowledge of computer graphics theory, C++ programming, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Expertise with graphics APIs such as DirectX, OpenGL, or Vulkan, and experience using shader languages (HLSL/GLSL) are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication help you work across teams and innovate in complex technical environments. These skills ensure the creation of efficient, visually impressive graphics systems that meet the demands of modern games or applications.

What is the difference between Senior Graphics Programmer vs Graphics Engineer?

AspectSenior Graphics ProgrammerGraphics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or related field; extensive experience in graphics programmingSimilar educational background; may have less experience or focus on implementation
Work EnvironmentDevelops advanced graphics features, shaders, rendering techniques in game engines or visualization toolsSupports graphics development, optimizes rendering pipelines, and implements graphics solutions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in gaming, simulation, and visual effects industries; common in companies developing real-time graphicsFound in similar industries, often collaborating with graphics teams to improve rendering performance

The main difference is that Senior Graphics Programmers typically lead complex graphics development projects, focusing on advanced rendering techniques, while Graphics Engineers support and optimize existing graphics systems. Both roles require strong technical skills, but Senior Graphics Programmers usually have more experience and responsibility in designing innovative graphics solutions.

What does a Senior Graphics Programmer do?

A Senior Graphics Programmer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing graphics systems and visual effects in video games, simulations, or other interactive applications. They work with rendering pipelines, shaders, and hardware APIs to ensure high visual quality and performance. Their role often involves collaborating with artists and other engineers to implement advanced visual features, troubleshoot graphical issues, and stay updated with the latest graphics technologies. Senior Graphics Programmers also mentor junior team members and help set technical direction for graphics development.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in California? For Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in California are:
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Senior Graphics Programmer jobs near you
Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

2K

Novato, CA • On-site

$120K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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.We welcome candidates across all experience levels, from junior to senior, with compensation based on experience. 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
  • Lead 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 position may be based onsite at our Novato, CA studio or remotely from an approved location within the United States or Canada, subject to company payroll and legal requirements.. Below are the expected salary and wage ranges for applicants based in locations where the pay transparency law is in effect: California: $120,000 - $174,300 per year. New York State (inclusive of New York City): $108,000 - $157,000 per year. Washington: $120,000 - $174,300 per year. New Jersey: $108,000 - $157,000 per year. British Columbia: $100,000 -$154,300 (CAD) per year. However, 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 and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program. Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company's discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year; paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support; family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness-related expenses. Ontario only: The use of Artificial Intelligence is not being used to screen candidates. The position is for an existing vacancy.
To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website at www.vcentertainment.com

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