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Virtual Reality Software Engineer Jobs in California

Qualcomm

#Senior Sensors Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Engineering General Summary: ** This position is ... virtual reality, augmented reality, gaming, health, and smart user interface. We are responsible ...

Meta

Software Engineer, Databases

Menlo Park, CA

$183K/yr

Meta is seeking a Software Engineer specializing in systems software to drive technical direction ... and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to ...

Maxonic

Be Seen First

Sr Software Engineer 3 (Unity 3D)

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$78/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As a member of our team, you will work on the development of virtual reality, mixed reality, and ... As a Sr Software Engineer, you will be a major contributor to the team and product, working ...

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All JobsReality Software Engineer JobsVirtual Reality Software Engineer JobsVirtual Reality Software Engineer Jobs in California

Virtual Reality Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do virtual reality software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reality software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectVirtual Reality Software EngineerAugmented Reality Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; experience with 3D graphics and game enginesBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; knowledge of AR SDKs and 3D modeling
Work EnvironmentDevelops immersive VR applications for gaming, training, or simulation in tech or gaming companiesCreates AR apps for mobile devices or AR glasses in tech, retail, or healthcare sectors
Industry UsagePrimarily in gaming, simulation, and training industriesPrimarily in retail, healthcare, and marketing sectors

While both roles involve 3D development and immersive experiences, Virtual Reality Software Engineers focus on creating fully immersive VR environments, whereas Augmented Reality Developers enhance real-world views with digital overlays. The skills overlap, but their applications and target platforms differ.

Is virtual reality software engineering a good career?

Virtual Reality Software Engineers develop immersive applications and experiences using programming languages like C++ and Unity or Unreal Engine. The field offers growing opportunities due to increasing demand in gaming, training, and simulation industries, often requiring skills in 3D modeling, graphics, and hardware integration. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in cutting-edge technology and innovation.

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Reality Software Engineer jobs in California?

For Virtual Reality Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Virtual Reality Software Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Virtual Reality Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Virtual Reality Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Virtual Reality Software Engineer job openings:

Virtual Reality Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Reality Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Senior AR/VR Software Engineer

Rivet Industries, Inc.

San Jose, CA • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Senior Augmented and Virtual Reality Software Engineer

Location: San Jose preferred, open to Bellevue, WA

Work Authorization Requirement: Due to the nature of our business and compliance with federal regulations, all candidates must be a \"U.S. Person\". Upon hire, you will be required to provide documentation verifying your status as a \"U.S. Citizen\", a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

EOE

Role Description

Rivet is looking for a Senior Augmented and Virtual Reality Software Engineer building interfaces for real-time 3D and XR applications on Android and embedded Linux AR devices. This role creates frontend systems using C#, C++ and frameworks like Unity or StereoKit, leveraging OpenXR for cross-platform XR support. You will ship performant, reliable user features that integrate cleanly with device services, peripherals and backend APIs.

Responsibilities
  • Develop 3D/XR interfaces with Unity or StereoKit.
  • Implement workflows and visualizations for device and data management.
  • Write performant C# and C++ code for real-time UI and interaction.
  • Integrate with OpenXR for cross-device compatibility.
  • Build companion apps/services for Android-based devices in Java/Kotlin.
  • Use Python for test harnesses, scripts, and build/CI tooling.
  • Optimize rendering, input, latency, profile and tune on device.
  • Collaborate with backend, hardware, and design for end-to-end delivery.
Requirements
  • Deep experience building 3D/XR or real-time interactive applications.
  • MS + at least 10 years (or PhD + at least 5 years) of relevant professional experience
  • Proficient in C# and C++; shipped features with Unity or StereoKit.
  • Experience on Android or embedded Linux devices; familiarity with AR/XR SDKs (OpenXR; ARCore a plus).
  • Solid grasp of performance optimization, profiling, and memory/CPU/GPU tradeoffs.
  • Java/Kotlin for Android components and peripheral integration.
  • Python for scripting, automation, or test pipelines.
  • Ability to partner across hardware, firmware, and cloud; track record of delivered XR or 3D features.
  • Experience with Unity, Unreal Engine (or comparable 3d engines) is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits

*Total compensation may vary within this range and is determined by years and level of relevant experience, job-related skills, education, and other factors. In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for equity grants and other forms of compensation. Eligible employees also receive a competitive benefits package, including unlimited PTO.

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