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Vulkan Programmer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or ... Experience with Vulkan, CUDA * Familiarity with systemd * Familiarity with the .deb packaging ...

Vulkan Programmer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$13

$53

$73

How much do vulkan programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for vulkan programmer in Denver, CO is $53.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.29 and $64.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 cities near Denver, CO are hiring for Vulkan Programmer jobs? Cities near Denver, CO with the most Vulkan Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Vulkan Programmer job openings in Denver, CO as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 67% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 8% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,919 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer - C++

Shotover Systems

Boulder, CO • On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:

SHOTOVER Systems is headquartered in beautiful Boulder, CO and designs and builds high-end gyro-stabilized airborne camera systems and augmented reality software used by airborne law enforcement agencies, firefighters, military, television stations, and cinematographers around the world.

As an established private company with additional locations in New Zealand, Canada, Switzerland and the UK, we offer a seamless end-to-end solution of software and hardware solutions while delivering an unprecedented level of control, versatility and ease-of-use in a compact package backed by world-class service and support.

Job Overview:

We’re capturing multiple channels of UHD video simultaneously and rendering 3D graphics in the scene in real time, along with generating a “Google Earth”- like virtual world that can be mixed and matched with video from the real world on an iPad. You will be part of the team working on our next-generation camera systems and AR software which will be focused on increasing support for higher definition video (8K), a larger variety of sensors, new hardware, integration with our flowgraph programming solution, and better scripting support (Python). Everything we do has to be done before the next vertical refresh rolls around, so speed is King -- but it also has to look good. If you like to wear lots of hats, work with a variety of experts, get out from behind a desk and do work that makes a difference, then this is for you.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and maintain a C++ application that runs on Windows, Linux, and iOS
  • Make application architecture decisions based on input from multiple stakeholders
  • Work on continuous integration/automation/packaging
  • Conduct code reviews and provide useful feedback for team members
  • Maintain a CMake and Visual Studio build system

Required Skills

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years experience in C++ programming language
  • Knowledge of networking protocols (e.g. UDP/TCP/IP/Multicast)
  • Experience with digital video (transmission, pixel formats, codecs, containers)
  • Knowledge of version control systems (e.g., Git) and build tools (e.g., Make, CMake)
  • Experience with C++17 or newer
  • Experience developing latency-critical, interactive software
  • Experience with non-blocking, threaded programming
  • Strong debugging/profiling/diagnostics skills
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Desirable Skills

  • Experience with Linux, GNU & LLVM Tools
  • Experience with C++20, Rust, Python
  • Experience with Vulkan, CUDA
  • Familiarity with systemd
  • Familiarity with the .deb packaging format and Ubuntu
  • Familiarity with ARM architecture and ARM-based SoCs, particularly Nvidia Jetson
  • Proficiency with writing Linux device drivers and device trees, as well as building and configuring the kernel
  • Experience with linear algebra, coordinate frames, and rotations
  • Good people skills

Benefits: Health/dental/vision/life insurance, 401k, and Paid Time Off

Work Authorization: U. S. Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or other protected status under 8 U. S. C. 1324b(a)(3) is required for this position.

*A background check is required as part of our hiring process.