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Vr Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We're a team of engineers developing and shipping innovative hardware, software, and content that push the boundaries of what's possible in AR, VR, and MR products. As a Camera Software Engineer, you ...

... Software Development Engineer to build the software for intelligent eyewear. The role involves ... AR/VR, mobile, or embedded systems. • Proficiency in state-of-the-art AI/ML technologies ...

Senior Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · Hybrid

$193K - $289K/yr

Senior Software Engineer San Mateo, CA Role Overview Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC seeks a ... VR/AR headset hardware; utilizing modern computer graphics pipelines and frameworks, including ...

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$114K - $195K/yr

No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or ... Software development experience using any one of the high-level programming languages such as C ...

Software Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$114K - $195K/yr

No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or ... Software development experience using any one of the high-level programming languages such as C ...

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Showing results 1-20

Vr Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do vr software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for vr 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 Vr Software Engineer vs AR Software Engineer?

AspectVr Software EngineerAR Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, relevant VR development certificationsBachelor's in Computer Science, AR development certifications
Work EnvironmentVR hardware labs, simulation studiosAR hardware labs, mobile app development environments
Industry UsageGaming, training simulations, virtual experiencesRetail, navigation, industrial maintenance
Common Search IntentVR development, VR app creationAR app development, AR experiences

While both roles involve immersive technology development, Vr Software Engineers focus on creating virtual reality experiences primarily for gaming and training, whereas AR Software Engineers develop augmented reality applications that overlay digital content onto the real world. The skills and tools overlap but are tailored to different hardware and user interactions.

What is a VR software engineer?

VR Software Engineers are technology professionals who design, develop, and maintain software applications for virtual reality (VR) platforms. They use programming languages and VR development tools to create immersive experiences that can be used in gaming, training, education, and more. Their work often involves 3D modeling, computer graphics, and integrating hardware like VR headsets and motion controllers. Collaboration with designers, artists, and other engineers is common to ensure the final product is interactive and user-friendly.

What are some unique challenges VR software engineers face when developing immersive applications?

VR Software Engineers often encounter challenges related to optimizing performance and ensuring a smooth user experience, as virtual reality applications require high frame rates and low latency to minimize motion sickness. They must also design intuitive user interfaces that work in a 3D space, which is different from traditional 2D interfaces. Collaboration with designers, artists, and UX specialists is common to create lifelike environments and interactive elements. Additionally, VR engineers need to stay updated with rapidly evolving hardware and software platforms to ensure compatibility and leverage new capabilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VR software engineer?

To thrive as a VR Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (especially in C#/C++), a solid grasp of 3D graphics, and experience with VR frameworks like Unity or Unreal Engine, usually supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with VR SDKs (such as Oculus or SteamVR), version control systems, and performance profiling tools is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for building immersive, high-performance VR experiences that meet both technical and user experience standards.
What job categories do people searching Vr Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Vr Software Engineer jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Vr Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% 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 4 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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