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Senior Graphics Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

About the role: We're looking for a Senior Design Engineer to own the craft and feel of AssemblyAI ... Illustration or visual storytelling ability, able to create original graphics, diagrams, or brand ...

New

Demonstrated knowledge in civil engineering principles and parks and recreation facility planning ... Strong graphic skills, including rendering, hand sketching, and digital graphics. * Strong ability ...

Senior Park Planner

Oswego, IL · On-site

$78K - $85K/yr

Demonstrated knowledge in civil engineering principles and parks and recreation facility planning ... Strong graphic skills, including rendering, hand sketching, and digital graphics. * Strong ability ...

$35 - $45/hr

Senior Engineering Technician - Field Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time ... Performs a variety of data collection, graphical depiction, and office activities in support of the ...

BAS Application Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $160/hr

BAS Application Engineer (Mid & Sr. Level) - Chicago, IL - $100K-$160K + Bonus - Data Center ... Prepare BMS submittals, as-built documentation, graphics, and control drawings. * Configure and ...

Senior Frontend Developer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

Senior Frontend Web and App Developer At Smartz Inc, we rely on our dynamic team of engineers to ... Working alongside graphic designers for web design features * Designing and developing APIs ...

Senior Frontend Developer

Champaign, IL

$107K - $141K/yr

Senior Frontend Web and App Developer At Smartz Inc, we rely on our dynamic team of engineers to ... Working alongside graphic designers for web design features * Designing and developing APIs ...

Senior Frontend Developer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

Senior Frontend Web and App Developer At Smartz Inc, we rely on our dynamic team of engineers to ... Working alongside graphic designers for web design features * Designing and developing APIs ...

About the role: We're looking for a Senior Design Engineer to own the craft and feel of AssemblyAI ... Illustration or visual storytelling ability, able to create original graphics, diagrams, or brand ...

New

About the role: We're looking for a Senior Design Engineer to own the craft and feel of AssemblyAI ... Illustration or visual storytelling ability, able to create original graphics, diagrams, or brand ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Senior Graphics Programmer information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$50

$69

How much do senior graphics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior graphics programmer in Illinois is $50.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.64 and $60.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Senior Graphics Programmer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Senior Graphics Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Graphics Programmer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 64% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,367 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

$80 - $120K/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

Join the Fun at Arrow International!

Arrow International is the world's #1 maker of charitable gaming products, from pull tabs and bingo paper to cutting-edge electronic gaming systems. Our products power entertainment in social and gaming venues around the globe, and we're growing fast!


We're building a winning culture that's all about teamwork, passion, and innovation. At Arrow, you're not just another employee, you're part of a high-performing team that's redefining fun and giving back to communities. We believe in rewarding your hard work with profit-sharing, 401(k) matching, great benefits, and paid time off, including a bonus week every July!


If you're looking for a career that's exciting, meaningful, and full of opportunity, Arrow is the place to be. 


Position Summary

We are seeking a Senior Artist to join our Visual Development Team. The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography, animation, visual FX and character design skills to help push our games to new heights. You'll play a key role in the overall development of our games' look and style, ensure creative alignment, and maintain a high standard of work. The ideal candidate will have experience providing feedback, solving creative challenges, and driving visual consistency across projects.


Salary range commensurate with experience. This role provides competitive benefits including an annual performance bonus, profit sharing program, and a 401K with company match. 


The Targeted Pay Range for this role is $80 - $120,000. 


Primary Roles and Responsibilities


Leadership and Team Support:

  • Provide mentorship, guidance, and constructive feedback to artists at various experience levels to promote growth and skill development.
  • Support team members by troubleshooting artistic challenges and offering creative solutions.
  • Ensure the team's output aligns with project goals and meets Arrow's quality standards.
  • Foster collaboration across the art team, programmers, and other stakeholders.

Artistic Contribution:

  • Conceptualize and design visuals for layouts, UI, logos, characters, and other game elements across multiple styles and themes.
  • Create and animate high-quality 2D game assets and VFX.
  • Ensure timely delivery of assets to meet production deadlines while maintaining visual consistency.

Requirements

Experience and Education

  • Degree in Design, Fine Arts, Visual Arts, or related field (Associates or Bachelors).
  • 5+ years of work experience as an Illustrator, Graphic Designer, or similar role, with demonstrated leadership experience.
  • Portfolio showcasing high-quality industry-standard artwork, including 2D game assets and animations.
  • Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.) and experience with After Effects for VFX animation.
  • Strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and composition, with an eye for detail and precision.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members and provide leadership.
  • Open to constructive critique and committed to ongoing learning and development.
  • Must work well in a team environment

Preferred Experience:

  • Gaming or casino-related knowledge or background.
  • Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of Spine is considered a plus
  • Experience with 3D Software (Maya, Blender, etc.).

We offer a dynamic and creative environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work on exciting projects in the gaming industry. If you are passionate about animation and gaming, we would love to hear from you!


PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is low.
  • May be required to sit for long and/or extended periods of time.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

At Arrow International, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are valued and respected. We believe that embracing our differences makes us stronger, more innovative, and better positioned to serve our communities. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Arrow International is an equal opportunity employer. We recruit, hire, train, and promote individuals in all job titles without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, results of genetic testing,

veteran status, or physical or mental disability-except where such disability prevents performance of essential job functions and cannot be reasonably accommodated in accordance with applicable laws.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

Arrow International is committed to complying with the spirit and requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, participate in the interview process, undergo any pre-employment testing, or otherwise take part in the employee selection process, please contact us at hr@arrowinternational.com.


Arrow International does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies. Resumes submitted without an approved vendor agreement will become the property of Arrow International, and no fees will be paid if the candidate is hired.  


To ensure a safe and productive work environment, all candidates who receive a conditional job offer must successfully pass a confidential pre-employment drug screening, which generally consists of a hair drug test, and receive an acceptable result as a condition of employment. Â