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Shader Programming Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

YO AI Labs

CUDA Developer - Remote

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$60 - $100/hr

You will apply your expertise in CUDA, C++, and GPU programming to analyze, optimize, and improve ... Develop shader logic using GLSL and WebGPU . * Document optimization processes, findings, and ...

NAUGHTY DOG, LLC

Core Tech Programmer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$141.40 - $176.70/hr

... shader editor, dcc plug-ins, build tools, data messaging tools, lighting tools or equivalent software * Experience with PC application programming Bonus Skills: * Experience with console programming

Naughty Dog

Core Tech Programmer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

... shader editor, dcc plug-ins, build tools, data messaging tools, lighting tools or equivalent software * Experience with PC application programming Bonus Skills: * Experience with console programming

Arch Motorcycle

Junior Designer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

Every ARCH motorcycle is built from an obsession for innovative design, engineering excellence and ... Material & Shader Creation: Experience with custom shader creation, material building, and lighting ...

Naughty Dog

Core Tech Programmer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$141K - $176K/yr

... shader editor, dcc plug-ins, build tools, data messaging tools, lighting tools or equivalent software * Experience with PC application programming Bonus Skills: * Experience with console programming

Snail Games USA

Senior Technical Artist - UE5

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site +1

$146K - $175K/yr

We have been a global developer and publisher of digital entertainment since 2009 and are committed ... HLSL or custom shader development experience. * Experience with procedural tools such as Houdini.

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All JobsShader Programming JobsShader Programming Jobs in Pasadena, CA

Shader Programming information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$15.3K

$50.2K

$72K

How much do shader programming jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for shader programming in Pasadena, CA is $50,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $58,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is shader programming?

Shader programming involves writing specialized code that runs on a computer's graphics processing unit (GPU) to control how images, lighting, and colors are rendered in computer graphics. Shaders are essential for creating realistic visual effects in video games, movies, and virtual reality. Programmers use languages like GLSL, HLSL, or Cg to write vertex, fragment, or compute shaders, which manipulate geometry, textures, and lighting in real time. This field requires strong mathematical and programming skills, especially in linear algebra and computer graphics concepts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a shader programmer?

To thrive as a Shader Programmer, you need strong proficiency in computer graphics principles, mathematics (especially linear algebra), and experience with shading languages like GLSL or HLSL, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with graphics APIs (such as OpenGL or DirectX), real-time rendering engines, and version control systems is typically required. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective collaboration with artists and developers are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to create visually stunning and efficient visual effects that enhance real-time applications and games.

What are some common challenges shader programmers face when optimizing graphics performance?

Shader programmers often encounter challenges related to balancing visual quality with real-time performance. Optimizing shaders requires a strong understanding of hardware limitations, such as processing power and memory bandwidth, as well as efficient use of GPU resources. Debugging and profiling shader code can be complex, especially when dealing with platform-specific differences. Collaboration with artists and other developers is essential to ensure that the visuals meet creative goals without exceeding performance budgets.

What is the difference between Shader Programming vs Graphics Programmer?

AspectShader ProgrammingGraphics Programmer
Required credentialsKnowledge of GLSL/HLSL, graphics APIsKnowledge of graphics APIs, C++, shader languages
Work environmentFocus on writing shaders for rendering pipelinesDeveloping graphics engines, rendering techniques
Industry usageUsed in game development, real-time renderingUsed in game studios, visual effects, simulation
Common search intentUnderstanding shader coding differencesUnderstanding graphics pipeline development

Shader Programming primarily involves writing small programs that run on the GPU to control rendering effects, while Graphics Programming encompasses broader development of rendering engines and graphics systems. Both roles require knowledge of graphics APIs and shader languages, but Shader Programmers focus more on creating visual effects at the shader level, whereas Graphics Programmers develop the overall graphics architecture.

What job categories do people searching Shader Programming jobs in Pasadena, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Shader Programming jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Shader Programming jobs?

Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Shader Programming job openings:

Shader Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shader Programming job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 67% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,167 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

CUDA Software Engineer - Remote

YO AI Labs

Los Angeles, CA • Remote

$60 - $100/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

CUDA Engineering Expert

Job Type: Contractor
Location: Remote

Job Overview

We are seeking experienced CUDA Engineering Experts to support a cutting-edge GPU optimization project. You will apply your expertise in CUDA, C++, and GPU programming to analyze, optimize, and improve high-performance GPU kernels.

No prior AI experience is required.

Key Responsibilities

  • Analyze, profile, and optimize GPU kernels using CUDA and profiling tools.

  • Identify performance bottlenecks and develop targeted optimization strategies.

  • Refactor C++ and CUDA code for efficiency and maintainability.

  • Develop shader logic using GLSL and WebGPU.

  • Document optimization processes, findings, and performance improvements.

  • Contribute to GPU architecture and performance discussions.

  • Collaborate with remote, cross-functional teams.

Required Qualifications

  • Strong expertise in CUDA programming and GPU kernel optimization.

  • Advanced C++ development skills.

  • Hands-on experience with GLSL and WebGPU.

  • Experience using GPU profiling tools such as NVIDIA Nsight or similar.

  • Strong understanding of GPU performance and architecture.

  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.

  • Ability to work effectively in a remote environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with high-performance computing or GPU-accelerated applications.

  • Experience optimizing workloads across different GPU architectures.

  • Background in graphics, compute shaders, or AI/ML acceleration.