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Senior Graphics Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Graphics Engineer

New York, NY

$153K - $189K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$164K - $203K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

New York, NY · Remote

$143K - $177K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$138K - $171K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

Austin, TX · Remote

$143K - $177K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$143K - $177K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

Principal Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · Remote

$143K - $177K/yr

Operate as a senior independent contributor: scope your own work, drive it to completion, and ... graphics stacks: OpenGL ES, WebGL, WebGPU, Vulkan, Metal, or DirectX, including shader programming ...

We are looking for a Senior/Staff Graphics Software Engineer to join the Platform Software team and own the graphics stack powering our robot's displays. You will build the rendering engine and UI ...

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$164K - $202K/yr

They are seeking a Senior/Staff Graphics Software Engineer to join the Platform Software team and own the graphics stack powering their robot's displays, building the rendering engine and UI ...

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

We are looking for a Senior/Staff Graphics Software Engineer to join the Platform Software team and own the graphics stack powering our robot's displays. You will build the rendering engine and UI ...

Graphics Engineer Senior

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$138K - $160K/yr

Overview The Graphics Engineer Sr I produces and reviews technical documentation reflecting detailed knowledge of specific technical areas in graphic design, related industrial design, architecture ...

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Senior Graphics Programmer information

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How much do senior graphics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior graphics programmer in the United States is $52.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.99 and $62.50 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.
More about Senior Graphics Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Graphics Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Graphics Programmer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphics Programmer jobs? The most popular types of Graphics Programmer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Graphics Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Graphics Programmer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Graphics Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,736 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Graphics Developer/Designer - Senior

Graphics Developer/Designer - Senior

Leidos

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 449 rated business services


Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?
At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.
If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!
The Opportunity
Are you ready to shape the future of global security? The Leidos Intelligence Sector isseeking a highly skilled Graphics Developer/Designer - Senior to support the USCYBERCOM J2 mission, to provide creative graphic design and layout solutions for intelligence products. The incumbent will contribute to the full spectrum of the intelligence production process by designing original illustrations, editing pre-existing images, managing fonts, and employing advanced pre-publication techniques. The Graphics Developer/Designer will integrate graphics with text, audio, and video to support the creation of interactive and multimedia, high-visibility finished intelligence products. This position requires the ability to work collaboratively with analysts to interpret and visually convey analytic assessments, as well as demonstrated proficiency in professional design software, such as Apple Final Cut Pro X, Adobe Creative Suite, and on Apple Mac hardware platforms.
Join a team where your "greatest work" isn't just a slogan-it's our daily standard.
Contract Status: Proposal Phase/Contingent Upon Award.
Security Clearance: Active DoD TS/SCI with Polygraph required. We are not able to sponsor the clearance requirement.
What you'll be doing:
Develop compelling graphics and diagrams in support of USCC J2 intelligence production, including conducting research and collecting relevant information from both internal and external subject matter experts and other sources.
Analyze, interpret, and validate information to ensure graphical and visual accuracy within all products. Organize information to determine the optimal method of presentation; create content according to established plans and production timelines. Ensure consistency with style guides and applicable publications policies in the preparation, formatting, and finalization of all graphic materials. Ensure all completed graphics and products fulfill the specified purpose, meet stakeholder requirements, and align with the intended scope. Assist in determining, recommending, and overseeing the production process for completed materials, supporting both digital and print media as required. Integrate graphics with text, audio, and video components to produce interactive and multimedia products that enhance the communication and impact of analytic assessments. Maintain up-to-date proficiency in professional graphics and design software and hardware platforms, including Apple Final Cut Pro X, Adobe Creative Suite, and Apple Mac systems. Document Operating Instructions (OIs) for command-wide programs and initiatives as assigned by the Government, ensuring adherence to process and standardization of visual communication practices.
Needed Experience, Skills, and Education:
  • Minimum 12 years of experience related to the specific labor category with at least a portion of the experience within the last 2 years.
  • Master's degree in an area related to the labor category from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education; or have Bachelor's degree related to the labor category from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and an additional 5 years of related senior experience, for a total of 17 years, as a substitute to the Master's degree. Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

Clearance Needed:
  • Active DoD TS/SCI with Polygraph required. We are not able to sponsor the clearance requirement.

Preferred Experience, Skills, and Education:
  • Deep familiarity with USCYBERCOM organizational structure and mission.
  • Prior experience supporting Joint operations across multiple warfighting domains.
  • Demonstrated extensive experience designing for executive-level or military audiences.
  • Prior experience providing graphic design support to Joint operations across multiple warfighting domains.
  • Demonstrated understanding of DoD and IC collaboration and graphics design best practices.
  • Desired Certifications: DoD 8570 IAT Level II (CCNA Security, COMPTIA CySA+, COMPTIA Security + CE, GICSP, GSEC, SSCP), and technical certification within field of graphic design such as Adobe Certified Professional (ACP).

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
January 26, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $105,300.00 - $190,350.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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