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Virtual Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lucid Motors

Sr. Virtual Commissioning Engineer

Newark, CA

$117K - $161K/yr

As a Senior Virtual Commissioning Engineer , you will play a lead role in advancing Lucids goal of being a highly automated and digitalized manufacturing company. You will work closely with external ...

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$11

$39

$67

How much do virtual programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual programmer in California is $39.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.38 and $50.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Virtual Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Virtual Programmer, you need strong coding skills in languages such as Python, Java, or C++, along with a solid understanding of software development principles, typically supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with cloud platforms, source control systems like Git, and collaboration tools such as Slack or Jira is essential. Excellent problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and effective remote communication distinguish top performers in virtual environments. These skills ensure the successful delivery of high-quality software solutions while collaborating efficiently from remote locations.

How do Virtual Programmers effectively collaborate with remote teams and stakeholders?

Virtual Programmers often work with colleagues and clients spread across different locations and time zones, which requires strong communication and collaboration skills. They typically utilize project management tools, version control systems, and regular video meetings to stay aligned with team objectives and project timelines. Clear documentation and proactive updates are essential to ensure smooth workflow and prevent misunderstandings. Adapting to various communication styles and being responsive to feedback helps Virtual Programmers build trust and maintain productivity in a remote work environment.

What are virtual programmers?

Virtual programmers are software developers who work remotely to design, write, and maintain computer programs and applications. They use online collaboration tools to communicate with clients or team members and are often hired on a freelance or contract basis. Virtual programmers can specialize in various programming languages and frameworks, allowing businesses to access global talent without the need for on-site staff. This role provides flexibility for both the programmer and employer, often resulting in cost savings and increased productivity.
What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Virtual Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Virtual Programmer job openings:
Virtual Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Programmer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 69% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,158 per year, or $39 per hour.

Lead Unreal 4 programmer - Virtual Reality

Immersive Entertainment

Irvine, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Company Description

We create next-generation Virtual Reality Content that represents a new form of entertainment. We bridge the gap between video games and movies, providing a level of immersion, emotional engagement and realism never before seen.

Job Description
  • Be the in-house expert on the Unreal Engine 4 including blueprints.
  • Implement practical and timely solutions that meet the game design and technical requirements.
  • Implement code /blueprints that is modular self-contained and defensive and observes the technical constraints on the system.
  • Work closely together with the CCO.
  • Ensure coding standards are followed and help to enforce good programming practices within the engineering team.
  • Maintain technical documentation for the engineering team as well as other disciplines.
  • Optimise code and data for memory usage and performance as required.
  • Keep abreast of new advances in virtual reality hardware, rendering technology and algorithms.
  • Sharing knowledge and techniques across the studio
  • Mentoring programmers 
Qualifications
  •  5+ years of experience in game development
  • Expert knowledge of working with UDK, Unreal Engine 3, Unreal Engine 4.
  • Excellent Unreal Engine blueprint skills.
  • Excellent C/C++ programming skills with good knowledge of object oriented development.
  • Expert knowledge of mathematics ability and a familiarity with common 3d graphics principles and rendering algorithms.
  • Expert knowledge Good working knowledge of current GPU architecture and rendering APIs experience with DirectX 11 /12 
  • Experience with commonly used development tools such as Visual Studio and Perforce.
  • Solid commercial software development experience with significant involvement in 1 published AAA game in a 3d environment
  • Knowledge of common algorithms data structures and patterns and the ability to apply them to problems while keeping constraints and performance in mind.
  • Able to analyse unfamiliar code of a reasonable complexity to understand and extend the functionality of an existing module.
  • Proven ability to debug defects of a reasonable complexity.
  • Good eye for details
  • English language
  • A strong team player and leader by example
Additional Information

Pluses

  • Shipped AAA PC or console titles as a Senior 3D Programmer
  • Work experience with Unreal Engine 4
  • Understanding the difference between developing for VR compared to traditional game development.
  • A passion for developing and playing virtual reality experiences


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