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Shader Programming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Guardian Airwaves LLC

OR · On-site

The company values innovation, high-quality engineering practices, and clear communication across ... Js Contractor Procedural Fur Shader Specialist will design, implement, and optimize procedural fur ...

Navier AI

Full Stack Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Knowledge of WebGL or shader programming (GLSL, WGSL) * Experience integrating ML model inference into production apps * Familiarity with containerization (Docker) and cloud deployment (AWS, GCP, or ...

Apple

Senior Software Engineer - UI Rendering

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$160K - $199K/yr

Knowledge of color management, HDR presentation, wide color gamut workflows, or advanced shader programming (MSL/GLSL/HLSL). * Familiarity with iOS, macOS, watchOS, or visionOS software development ...

Nvidia

Senior Graphics Shader Compiler Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$138K - $171K/yr

We are looking for an enthusiastic and competent Senior Graphics Shader Compiler Engineer for an ... You would need strong C/C++ programming skills, as well as a deep understanding of parallel ...

Nvidia

Senior Graphics Shader Compiler Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$156K - $193K/yr

We are looking for an enthusiastic and competent Senior Graphics Shader Compiler Engineer for an ... You would need strong C/C++ programming skills, as well as a deep understanding of parallel ...

Apple

Senior Software Engineer - UI Rendering

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$184K - $324K/yr

Knowledge of color management, HDR presentation, wide color gamut workflows, or advanced shader programming (MSL/GLSL/HLSL). * Familiarity with iOS, macOS, watchOS, or visionOS software development ...

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Shader Programming information

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How much do shader programming jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for shader programming in the United States is $45,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $53,500.00 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.

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Cities with the most Shader Programming job openings:

What states have the most Shader Programming jobs?

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Shader Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shader Programming job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 8% Temporary, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 69% In-person, and 31% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,991 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Three.Js Contractor Procedural Fur Shader Specialist

Guardian Airwaves LLC

OR • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Company Description Guardian Airwaves LLC is a technology-focused organization dedicated to building visually compelling and technically robust interactive experiences. The company values innovation, high-quality engineering practices, and clear communication across multidisciplinary teams. Team members are encouraged to experiment with new tools and techniques while delivering reliable, maintainable solutions. Guardian Airwaves LLC supports continuous learning and professional growth, particularly in advanced graphics and real-time rendering. The work environment emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and respect for diverse perspectives.
Role Description The Three.Js Contractor Procedural Fur Shader Specialist will design, implement, and optimize procedural fur shaders within Three.js-based applications. This contract role is on-site and located in Remote, OR, involving close collaboration with developers, artists, and product stakeholders to translate visual requirements into performant rendering solutions. Day-to-day tasks include prototyping shader approaches, refining lighting and material properties, integrating shaders into existing rendering pipelines, and troubleshooting visual or performance issues. The specialist will profile GPU performance, adjust shader code for various hardware targets, and document technical implementations for future maintenance. This role also includes participating in review sessions, providing guidance on best practices in real-time graphics, and ensuring that fur rendering meets both artistic and technical standards.
Qualifications
  • Strong proficiency with Three.js and modern WebGL or WebGPU frameworks for real-time graphics.
  • Experience designing and implementing procedural shaders, including fur, hair, or similar complex materials.
  • Solid understanding of computer graphics fundamentals, such as lighting models, shading, textures, and rendering pipelines.
  • Ability to profile and optimize GPU performance, including shader code efficiency and draw-call management.
  • Comfort working closely with technical and non-technical team members to refine visual requirements and iterate on solutions.
  • Proficiency in JavaScript or TypeScript and familiarity with browser-based development and debugging tools.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to visual detail, and ability to produce clean, well-documented code.
  • Previous experience with advanced materials, particle systems, or physics-based rendering is beneficial.
  • Relevant coursework or degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, Game Development, or a related field is a plus, but equivalent practical experience is highly valued.

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