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Vulkan Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Figure

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure ... Implement and optimize Vulkan and OpenGL ES rendering pipelines to achieve smooth, high-framerate ...

NxT Level

Senior Tools Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Our client is looking for a Tools Programmer to join their fully remote team to build next ... OpenGL, Vulkan). * Solid mathematical skills, particularly in linear algebra and geometry.

Roblox

Senior Rendering Engineer Manager

San Mateo, CA · On-site

The core rendering pipeline, culling and dispatching systems, graphics APIs backends (Vulkan, Metal ... Partner with your team and other engineering leaders to define and execute the vision for the core ...

NxT Level

Senior Tools Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$112K - $154K/yr

Our client is looking for a Tools Programmer to join their fully remote team to build next ... OpenGL, Vulkan). * Solid mathematical skills, particularly in linear algebra and geometry.

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Vulkan Programmer information

What are Vulkan Programmers?

Vulkan Programmers are software developers who specialize in using the Vulkan graphics and compute API to create high-performance graphics applications, such as video games, simulations, and visualization tools. They are skilled in low-level programming, optimizing rendering pipelines, and managing resources for efficient GPU usage. Vulkan Programmers often work closely with game engines or custom graphics frameworks to achieve advanced visual effects and real-time performance. Their expertise is crucial for applications that require cross-platform compatibility and maximum control over graphics hardware.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software development, data science, or systems architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior or executive roles at large technology companies. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

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

To thrive as a Vulkan Programmer, you need a solid understanding of computer graphics, C/C++ programming, and low-level GPU architecture, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with the Vulkan API, graphics debugging tools like RenderDoc, and shader languages such as GLSL or HLSL is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient development of high-performance graphics applications and successful teamwork in demanding technical environments.

What are some common challenges Vulkan Programmers face when integrating Vulkan into existing projects?

Vulkan Programmers often encounter challenges such as managing the explicit nature of Vulkan’s API, which requires detailed handling of memory management and synchronization. Integrating Vulkan into legacy codebases can reveal compatibility issues and a steep learning curve, particularly when transitioning from more abstract graphics APIs like OpenGL or DirectX. Additionally, debugging and performance optimization can be more complex due to Vulkan’s low-level access to hardware, requiring robust tooling and a deep understanding of graphics pipelines. Collaborating closely with other developers and technical artists is essential to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.

What coding language does Vulkan use?

Vulkan programming primarily uses C and C++ languages, which provide low-level access to hardware and high performance for graphics and compute tasks. Developers working as Vulkan programmers should be proficient in these languages and familiar with graphics APIs and shader languages like GLSL or SPIR-V.

What is the highest-paying programming job?

Vulkan programmers, especially those with expertise in graphics development and real-time rendering, can earn high salaries, often exceeding six figures annually, particularly in industries like gaming, simulation, and virtual reality. Senior roles requiring advanced skills in graphics APIs, optimization, and cross-platform development tend to be the highest paying in programming fields.

Are graphics programmers in demand?

Graphics programmers, including Vulkan programmers, are in high demand due to the growth of the gaming, virtual reality, and simulation industries. Skills in graphics APIs like Vulkan, OpenGL, and DirectX, along with knowledge of real-time rendering and shader development, are highly valued by employers seeking to optimize visual performance and quality.
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Vulkan Programmer jobs near you
Senior Compiler Engineer - Backend GPU

Senior Compiler Engineer - Backend GPU

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

NVIDIA's invention of the GPU 1999 sparked the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More recently, GPU deep learning ignited modern AI - the next era of computing - with the GPU acting as the brain of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can perceive and understand the world. Today, we are increasingly known as "the AI computing company".

We are searching for a Senior Backend Compiler Engineer with experience in LLVM code generation for an exciting and fun role in our GPU Software organization. Our Compiler team is responsible for constructing and emitting the highest performance GPU machine instructions for Graphics (OpenGL, Vulkan, DX) and Compute (CUDA, PTX, OpenCL, Fortran, C++). This team is comprised of worldwide leading compiler engineering experts who provide leading edge performance and capabilities for NVIDIA's current and future complex parallel SIMT architectures.

What you will be doing:

  • Guide the design and implementation of a new LLVM based backend JIT compiler targeting NVIDIA GPUs

  • Design and develop new compiler passes and optimizations required to meet the high performance and low compilation time requirements of the compiler

  • Work with global compiler, hardware and application teams to oversee improvements and problem resolutions

  • Apply and adapt the latest compiler technologies to produce premier, robust, supportable compiler and tools

  • Get a chance to influence and work on new GPU architectures

What we need to see:

  • B.S. or higher degree in Computer Science/Engineering or equivalent experience

  • 4+ years of compiler development experience including 3+ years of experience in LLVM with a focus in code generation

  • Expertise in LLVM code generation including instruction scheduling, software pipelining, register allocation, GlobalISel, TableGen, LLVM IR, and Machine IR (MIR)

  • Proficient in compiler design and in performance analysis tools

  • Excellent hands-on C++ programming skills applied to industry standard C++ compilers and development frameworks

  • Strong background in software engineering principles with a focus on crafting robust and maintainable solutions to challenging problems

  • Good communication and documentation skills and self-motivated

Ways to stand out from the crowd:

  • Masters or PhD preferred, with 5+ years of relevant experience

  • Experience developing compiler optimizations and code generation for GPUs

  • Experience in developing CUDA, DirectX, OpenGL/Vulkan applications

  • You should have strong interpersonal skills and be capable of leading and influencing others in the department

With competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, we are widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us and, due to unprecedented growth, our exclusive 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.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until March 3, 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

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