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Vulkan Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PlayStation Global

Sr Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Experience with GPU programming (HLSL, Vulkan, CUDA) with proven skills in profiling, debugging, and optimizations across CPU and GPU. * Knowledge of multi-threaded programming and debugging using C ...

Bolt Graphics

GPU Standards Developer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Deep understanding of modern GPU APIs such as Vulkan, Metal, DirectX, CUDA, and SYCL * Extensive ... Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming * Experience with code analysis, IR (LLVM, MLIR, ISPC), and ...

Nvidia

GPU Compiler Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

... Vulkan, DX) and Compute (CUDA, PTX, OpenCL, Fortran, C++). This team is comprised of worldwide ... S. or degree in Computer Science/Engineering or equivalent experience 2+ years of compiler code ...

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 ...

Bolt Graphics

GPU Standards Developer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Deep understanding of modern GPU APIs such as Vulkan, Metal, DirectX, CUDA, and SYCL * Extensive ... Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming * Experience with code analysis, IR (LLVM, MLIR, ISPC), and ...

Figure

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

San Jose, CA

$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 ...

Nvidia

GPU Compiler Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Experience in developing CUDA, DirectX, OpenGL/Vulkan applications NVIDIA's invention of the GPU ... If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want to hear ...

Bolt Graphics, Inc.

GPU Standards Developer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Deep understanding of modern GPU APIs such as Vulkan, Metal, DirectX, CUDA, and SYCL * Extensive ... Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming * Experience with code analysis, IR (LLVM, MLIR, ISPC), and ...

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

$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.

Apple

Senior Software Engineer - UI Rendering

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$160K - $199K/yr

Our goal is to enable developers and HI designers to create exceptional visual experiences by ... Hands-on experience with modern graphics APIs (Metal, Vulkan, or DirectX) and low-level rendering ...

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Vulkan Programmer information

What is a Vulkan programmer?

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Vulkan Programmer jobs in California?

For Vulkan Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vulkan Programmer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Vulkan Programmer jobs in California are:

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Vulkan Programmer jobs near you

Principal Graphics Developer Tools Engineer

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Nvidia Corporation
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Nvidia Corporationexternal

$164K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

The Graphics Developer Tools team is seeking an exceptional technical leader to help shape the future of graphics development. This role spans multiple areas of NVIDIA's graphics software ecosystem, driving innovation across developer tools, graphics technologies, and next-generation development workflows. You will create and lead new strategic initiatives, partnering closely with NVIDIA Research, GPU Architecture, Driver, SDK, and Developer Technology teams to evaluate emerging technologies, prototype new ideas, and deliver solutions that improve how developers build, debug, profile, and optimize graphics applications. This is a hands-on technical leadership role emphasizing vision, execution, influence, and collaboration. Success in this role comes from technical excellence and the ability to align teams around ambitious ideas.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Define and implement the technical vision and strategy for next-generation developer tools, workflows, and technologies that improve developer productivity.
  • Design and prototype new tools that can evolve into production-ready software.
  • Collaborate with GPU architects, driver engineers, SDK teams, and graphics developers to understand future needs and influence product direction.
  • Drive technical initiatives across multiple organizations through collaboration and technical leadership.
  • Mentor engineers and help establish engineering excellence within the larger Developer Tools organization.
  • Engage with external developers, game studios, engine teams, and strategic partners to understand real-world workflows and pain points.
  • Represent NVIDIA at industry events, technical conferences, and developer engagements.
  • Influence the evolution of graphics development as AI increasingly transforms how software is built, optimized, and maintained.

What We Need To See:
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 15+ years of experience developing graphics software, developer tools, game engines, GPU technologies, or related systems.
  • Deep understanding of modern graphics APIs including DirectX, Vulkan, or Metal.
  • Strong C++ software engineering skills and experience building large-scale software systems.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership driving complex projects across multiple teams.
  • Experience designing software architectures and influencing technical direction beyond a single codebase.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering, research, product, and external developer communities.
  • Proven ability to thrive in ambiguous environments and transform ideas into shipped products.

Ways To Stand Out From The Crowd:
  • Expertise in GPU architecture, memory systems, performance analysis, or graphics debugging.
  • Experience with ray tracing technologies, neural rendering, or advanced rendering techniques using Vulkan or D3D12.
  • Experience developing profilers, debuggers, validation tools, or SDKs.
  • Experience applying machine learning or generative AI techniques to software development workflows.
  • Contributions to game engines, graphics middleware, graphics SDKs, or open-source graphics projects.

NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers with some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working here. If you're highly technical and enthusiastic about 3D Graphics, we want to hear from you! For two decades, we have pioneered visual computing, the art and science of computer graphics. With our invention of the GPU - the engine of modern visual computing - the field has expanded to encompass video games, movie production, product design, medical diagnosis and scientific research. Today, we stand at the beginning of the next era, the AI computing era, ignited by a new computing model, GPU deep learning.
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 272,000 USD - 431,250 USD.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until June 20, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive 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.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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

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