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Senior Graphics Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Primera Engineers

Graphic Design Intern

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

You'll create compelling graphics and materials to support our marketing and communications efforts ... launch a successful engineering career * A fun, inclusive, and collaborative environment

Primera

Graphic Design Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

You'll create compelling graphics and materials to support our marketing and communications efforts ... launch a successful engineering career * A fun, inclusive, and collaborative environment

Arrow International, Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Foster collaboration across the art team, programmers, and other stakeholders. Artistic ... Illustrator, Graphic Designer, or similar role, with demonstrated leadership experience.

Arrow International Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Foster collaboration across the art team, programmers, and other stakeholders. Artistic ... Illustrator, Graphic Designer, or similar role, with demonstrated leadership experience.

Arrow International, Inc.

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Foster collaboration across the art team, programmers, and other stakeholders. Artistic ... Illustrator, Graphic Designer, or similar role, with demonstrated leadership experience.

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All JobsGraphics Programmer JobsSenior Graphics Programmer JobsSenior Graphics Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Senior Graphics Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$53

$74

How much do senior graphics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior graphics programmer in Chicago, IL is $53.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.34 and $64.38 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Graphics Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Senior Graphics Programmer jobs near you
Graphic Design Intern

Graphic Design Intern

Primera Engineers

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description

 WHO WE ARE
We're a people-first organization. We value knowledge and learning. We believe in the power of connection and collaboration and we seek to build relationships that mean something. We employ some of the best and brightest in the industry and we work hard to maintain a culture that our people can be proud of. 


WORKING FOR PRIMERA
 Our Corporate team is a talented group of HR, marketing, IT, finance and administrative professionals that band together to continuously move our company forward. Ever focused on providing a first-class client experience, we connect with people across the organization to support all aspects of our company's operations.     


WHO YOU ARE

  • You're in school to elevate your natural graphic design talent. You have a passion for good design and the ability to visually translate ideas from concept to completion.  
  • You're an eager student looking to gain experience working in an office environment. You're currently enrolled in an local undergraduate degree program in visual communication, graphic design or a similar field. 
  • You're proficient with key design applications. Adobe Creative Cloud basics (InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator) are a must. Prior design experience is a huge plus. 
  • You're a people person. You're friendly and have a sense of humor. Connecting with people is important. You'll work side-by-side Primera's team of marketing and communications experts, including our Sr. Graphic Designer.
  • You're open to feedback. You're proud of what you create but happy to collaborate with the team.
  • You're a self-motivated, multitask-loving design enthusiast. You're detail-oriented and have a strong desire to succeed. You can multitask with the best of them. You effectively handle multiple priorities, organize your workload, and meet agreed-upon deadlines.


WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • You'll flex your design muscle. You'll create compelling graphics and materials to support our marketing and communications efforts, working within our established identity of course. 
  • You'll get well-rounded design experience. Projects will range from the slight revision of existing materials to blank-canvas opportunities. You move between page layouts, templates, promotional items, brochures, infographics, internal logo design, banners, presentations, sales materials, social media, etc.
  • You'll work in a flexible, people-first, empowering, safe, and supportive environment.
  • You'll enjoy what you do. You'll work with great people, learn, grow and have a good time doing it.


SOME OF WHAT YOU'LL ENJOY

  • Resume-building experience in a professional environment that can help you launch a successful engineering career
  • A fun, inclusive, and collaborative environment
  • Colleagues that appreciate differences in people, perspectives, cultures, and ideas
  • The fruits of our employee-led committees focused on offering engaging social, wellness and community service activities all year long

For more information about Primera please visit our website: PrimeraEng.com.   


Equal Employment Opportunity

Primera is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity. Primera's practices and employment decisions, including those regarding recruitment, hiring, assignment, promotion and compensation, shall not be based on any person's race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, disability, physical handicap, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship status or other protected group as defined by law.   

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