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Vulkan Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Group, Engineering Group > GPU ASICS Engineering General Summary: GPU System Driver ... As a member of team, you will develop Vulkan/D3D12 driver for prototyping, exploration, and ...

Sr Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA

$139.50K - $183.90K/yr

Experience with GPU programming (HLSL, Vulkan, CUDA) with proven skills in profiling, debugging, and optimizations across CPU and GPU. * AI/ML modeling and training experience * Embedded system ...

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Vulkan Developer information

What is the difference between Vulkan Developer vs OpenGL Developer?

AspectVulkan DeveloperOpenGL Developer
Required CredentialsProficiency in Vulkan API, programming skills in C/C++, graphics programming experienceKnowledge of OpenGL API, similar programming skills, graphics programming experience
Work EnvironmentDeveloping high-performance graphics and compute applications, often in gaming or simulation industriesCreating cross-platform graphics applications, often in gaming, CAD, or visualization sectors
Industry UsageUsed in modern, high-efficiency graphics engines, VR, and real-time renderingWidely used in legacy systems, cross-platform applications, and educational contexts

Vulkan Developers focus on high-performance, low-level graphics programming using the Vulkan API, suitable for modern, resource-intensive applications. OpenGL Developers work with a more established, higher-level API, often for cross-platform compatibility and legacy support. Both roles require strong graphics programming skills but differ in API complexity and application focus.

What cities in California are hiring for Vulkan Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Vulkan Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Vulkan Developer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Hybrid job distribution.
Senior System Software Engineer, Vulkan Performance

Senior System Software Engineer, Vulkan Performance

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$143.90K - $189.70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

As a Vulkan Performance driver engineer, you will have a hand in everything from the game engine down to bare metal! You will be part of a team whose mission it is to achieve the best possible performance, power-efficiency, and latency for the latest games and creative applications. You'll work with some of the brightest minds in the field of computer graphics and high-performance processor design.
What you will be doing:
  • Diagnosing GPU and CPU performance bottlenecks in Vulkan and Proton titles.
  • Identifying changes to API usage to improve performance and communicating via appropriate channels with third-party developers.
  • Implementing driver performance improvements and resolving driver defects.
  • Collaborating with engineers on the team and across NVIDIA.
  • Developing a driver that leads the industry in quality and performance.

What we need to see:
  • Hold a B.S. or higher degree in Computer Science/Engineering or similar field or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years of experience (or equivalent) in graphics software, system programming, or related field.
  • An understanding of graphics fundamentals, experience with operating systems and a solid understanding of computer architecture is required
  • Comfortable with Vulkan, OpenGL or DirectX
  • Strong programming skills in C and C++, familiarity with assembly code
  • Experience in developing highly optimized code

Ways to stand out from the crowd:
  • Strong interest and background in 3D graphics
  • Working experience inside operating system kernels and device drivers
  • Ability to think creatively to debug and solve complex, hard to reproduce problems
  • A strong standout colleague; self-motivated with strong interpersonal skills
  • Ability and flexibility to work and communicate effectively in a multinational, multi-time zone corporate environment

With competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and talented people in the world working for us and, due to unprecedented growth, our elite engineering teams are rapidly growing. If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want to hear from you.
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 152,000 USD - 241,500 USD for Level 3, and 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until February 7, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993