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Virtual Reality Developer Jobs in Vicksburg, MS (NOW HIRING)

Virtual Reality Developer information

See Vicksburg, MS salary details

$13

$42

$65

How much do virtual reality developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual reality developer in Vicksburg, MS is $42.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.36 and $51.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a virtual reality developer?

A Virtual Reality Developer is a technology professional who designs, builds, and tests immersive applications and experiences using virtual reality (VR) technology. They use programming languages, 3D modeling tools, and game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine to create interactive environments for gaming, training, education, healthcare, and other industries. Their work involves both creative design and technical development, often collaborating with artists, designers, and other developers to bring virtual worlds to life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual reality developer?

To thrive as a Virtual Reality Developer, you need strong programming skills (C#, C++, or Java), 3D modeling understanding, and a background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, and knowledge of VR hardware and SDKs, are typically required, along with certifications in VR development or related areas being advantageous. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills that set top developers apart. These skills ensure immersive, functional VR experiences and enable developers to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.

What are some common challenges faced by virtual reality developers when collaborating with designers and other team members?

Virtual Reality Developers often work closely with designers, artists, and UX specialists to bring immersive experiences to life. One common challenge is aligning technical constraints with creative vision, as not all design ideas are feasible within current VR hardware limitations. Effective communication and iterative prototyping are essential to bridge gaps between disciplines and ensure that both performance and user experience goals are met. Additionally, VR projects require rigorous testing across multiple devices, which can add complexity to collaboration and scheduling.

What is the difference between Virtual Reality Developer vs Augmented Reality Developer?

AspectVirtual Reality DeveloperAugmented Reality Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Development, or related field; experience with 3D engines like Unity or UnrealBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Development, or related field; experience with AR SDKs like ARKit or ARCore
Work EnvironmentDevelops immersive VR experiences for gaming, training, or simulations, often using VR headsetsCreates AR applications for mobile devices or AR glasses, integrating digital content with real-world views
Employer & Industry UsageGaming, training, healthcare, education, simulation industriesRetail, marketing, maintenance, navigation, healthcare industries

While both roles involve creating interactive digital experiences, Virtual Reality Developers focus on fully immersive environments using VR headsets, whereas Augmented Reality Developers enhance real-world views with digital overlays. Both require similar technical skills but differ in application and target devices.

Are virtual reality developers in demand?

Virtual reality developers are in high demand as industries like gaming, healthcare, education, and training adopt VR technology. The role requires skills in 3D modeling, programming, and experience with VR platforms such as Unity or Unreal Engine, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as VR applications expand across sectors.
Infographic showing various Virtual Reality Developer job openings in Vicksburg, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,065 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Research Engineer I, II, III, or Senior

Mississippi State University

Vicksburg, MS • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Mississippi State University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

489th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Apply now Job no: 510665
Position type: Full-Time 12-Month
Department: 193603 - Instit for Systems Engr Resch(ISER)
Location: Vicksburg, MS
Categories: Professional
Position Open Date: May 20 2026

Position Function:

Research Engineer position in the Institute for Systems Engineering Research (ISER) within the Institute for Computational Research in Science and Engineering (ICRES) at Mississippi State University. ISER is located at Vicksburg, MS on the campus of the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC). ISER maintains strong interaction with industry and also stresses a cross disciplinary education and research program. The individual serves under the general direction of the MSU ISER Director located at Vicksburg, MS. Level of appointment is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Perform engineering and scientific research. This activity normally occurs through writing and submitting proposals for research sponsorship and the subsequent execution of a project and publication of results. Frequently, the conduct of such research requires, in addition to engineering/scientific technical skills, the management skills necessary to direct graduate students.

  1. The position will have a strong emphasis on computational science and engineering research related to systems engineering and its applications. Specifically, the areas of application are big data, visualization, and modeling related to several areas of focus to include virtual reality, robotics, force protection, weapons effects, shock physics, manufacturing, human factors, or materials engineering.
  2. This position will have a strong emphasis on computational science, mathematics, and engineering research related to systems engineering and its applications. Specifically, knowledge of data science along with managing, “big data”, simulations and model building, data analysis and AI/ML.
  3. Plays a role in the development and implementation of new and/or expanded technical capabilities that will impact future research projects.
  4. Tasks include developing and executing computational analysis for a variety of applications and sponsors.
  5. Develop and enhance relationships with federal, state, local and private partners to the fullest extent possible, forming collaboration and coordinating relationships resulting in research and development activities.
  6. Tasks include developing and executing high performance computing codes.
  7. Publish the results of personal and sponsored research in archival journals referred to by his/her peers.
  8. Pursue scholarly and professional interests which will keep his/her expertise at the leading edge of engineering practice through continuing professional duties.

Every person employed by the University is expected to meet high standards of professional integrity, collegiality, and objectivity, and to further the goals of his/her unit(s) and the University. In addition, a person of research rank must have an appropriate degree, or its equivalent in training and experience; a strong commitment to higher education, and to the mission of Mississippi State University; and a willingness to assume the responsibilities and obligations appropriate to a professional or faculty university employee. In addition, the following is appropriate at each level.

Minimum Qualifications:
  1. Research Engineer I - B.S. in engineering or computer science; Less than one year in a related area.
  2. Research Engineer II - B.S. in engineering or computer science; Two years of professional experience in a related area; Requires two years at previous level or equivalent.
  3. Research Engineer III - B.S. in engineering or computer science; Four years of professional experience in a related area; Requires two years at previous level or equivalent.
  4. Senior Research Engineer - B.S. in engineering or computer science; Six years or more years of professional experience in a related area; Requires two years at previous level or equivalent.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knows and effectively uses the fundamental concepts, practices and procedures of a particular field of specialization.
  • Continues development of technical expertise and knowledge through experience and application.
  • Excellent communication skills.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort:
  • Occasional and/or light lifting required. Limited exposure to elements such as heat, cold, noise, dust, dirt, chemicals, etc., but none to the point of being disagreeable. May involve minor safety hazards where likely result would be cuts, bruises, etc.
  • Routine deadlines, usually sufficient lead time; variance in work volume predictable; priorities can be anticipated; some interruptions are present; involves occasional exposure to demands and pressure from persons other than immediate supervisor.
  • Job frequently requires standing, walking, climbing or balancing, stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling and lifting up to 50 pounds.
  • Vision requirements: Ability to see information in print and/or electronically, ability to distinguish colors.

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu . If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu . Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.

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