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Senior Graphics Programmer Jobs in Mesa, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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Senior Graphics Programmer information

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How much do senior graphics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior graphics programmer in Mesa, AZ is $51.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.65 and $62.02 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 Mesa, AZ?

The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs in Mesa, AZ are:

What cities near Mesa, AZ are hiring for Senior Graphics Programmer jobs?

Cities near Mesa, AZ with the most Senior Graphics Programmer job openings:

Senior Software Engineer - Embedded Graphics

Chandler, AZ โ€ข On-site

SyberJet Aircraft
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturingย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$119K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

SyberJet Aircraft is an aircraft manufacturer specializing in advanced business jet platforms. The avionics' engineering group is responsible for the development of the SyberVision integrated avionics system, including synthetic vision, terrain visualization, interactive mapping, and safety-critical flight displays developed in accordance with DO-178C.

Job Description:

This position is responsible for the design, development, testing, and optimization of real-time 2D and 3D graphics software for embedded avionics display systems. The role supports the implementation of rendering architectures, geospatial information system integration, and visualization capabilities within the SyberVision avionics platform.


The position requires coordination with systems engineering, UX design, flight test, and certification personnel.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and implement real-time 2D and 3D rendering software for embedded avionics displays in C/C++.
  • Develop and optimize graphics algorithms for terrain rendering, map compositing, and flight symbology on resource-constrained embedded hardware.
  • Evaluate, integrate, and maintain third-party mapping and rendering engines alongside internally developed software.
  • Support geospatial information systems activities including data versioning, format integration, and database compilation for terrain, imagery, and vector feature sources.
  • Derive certifiable software requirements from system-level and stakeholder inputs.
  • Assess rendering architecture and technology alternatives within real-time performance and DO-178C certification constraints.
  • Support certification activities including requirements traceability, code coverage analysis, and coding standard compliance.
  • Participate in integration testing, hardware-in-the-loop validation, and flight test support.
  • Provide technical guidance to less-experienced engineers.


Qualifications:

  • B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum 5 years of professional software development in C or C++ for embedded or real-time systems.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in computer graphics fundamentals: rasterization, projection, coordinate transforms, and real-time rendering.
  • Experience with 2D/3D graphics APIs (OpenGL, OpenGL ES, Vulkan, or equivalent).
  • Proficiency with Linux development environments, cross-compilation toolchains, and build systems (CMake, Make).
  • Proficiency with Git and standard software configuration management practices.
  • Ability to decompose functional requirements into well-defined software tasks.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with DO-178C or equivalent safety-critical software development standards.
  • Working knowledge of geospatial data formats and coordinate systems (DTED, GeoTIFF, shapefiles, WGS-84, map projections).
  • Knowledge of aviation charts, FAA mapping databases, synthetic vision systems, or terrain awareness and warning systems.
  • Experience with Model-Based Engineering tools (ANSYS SCADE Suite or SCADE Display preferred).
  • Experience with GPU shader programming (GLSL) or GPU architecture concepts.
  • Experience with software-only rendering (CPU-based rasterization).
  • Experience with profiling and optimization on embedded platforms.
  • Familiarity with MISRA C or similar safety-critical coding standards.
  • Experience with CI/CD pipelines and automated build/test frameworks.
  • Previous involvement in aerospace certification processes (FAA, EASA).

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • A collaborative and innovative work environment.
  • The chance to work on cutting-edge aerospace projects with a talented team of professionals.