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Shader Programming Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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Shader Programming information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$13.9K

$45.7K

$65.5K

How much do shader programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for shader programming in Phoenix, AZ is $45,665.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $53,100.00 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, and why are they important?

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Shader Programming jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Shader Programming jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Shader Programming jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Shader Programming jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
Shader Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shader Programming job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,665 per year, or $22 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer - Embedded Graphics

Senior Software Engineer - Embedded Graphics

SyberJet Aircraft

Chandler, AZ

$126K - $165K/yr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

SyberJet Aircraft Avionics Software Engineer

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.

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