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Vulkan Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Belcan, LLC

Avionics Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$80K - $135K/yr

An Avionics Software Engineer position is available at Belcan supporting one of our high-profile ... Experience developing graphics software using Vulkan SC. Experience analyzing and decomposing ...

New

Belcan

Avionics Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$80K - $135K/yr

... utilizing Vulkan Safety Critical (SC). · Optimize 2D/3D graphics algorithms to ensure ... Engineering, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering. · Minimum of 5+ years of Software ...

New

Figure

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$164K - $202K/yr

... optimize Vulkan and OpenGL ES rendering pipelines to achieve smooth, high-framerate output. • ... systems engineers. • Establish best practices for graphics development, testing, and CI ...

PlayStation Global

Software Engineer II

San Mateo, CA · On-site

Experience withGPU and graphics programming, including HLSL, Vulkan, or CUDA. * Proven ability in debugging and profiling complex systems. * Proficient with these systems/tools: IDE's, Source Control ...

AGBO

Rendering Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... Vulkan, Metal), and platform-specific rendering features, advocating for their adoption where they serve project goals • Perform all other duties as assigned Qualifications : Required : • 5-8 ...

Merican

OpenXR App Developer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$48 - $50/hr

OpenXR App Developer Location: Redmond, WA Duration: 12 months Pay Rate: $48/hr. - $50/hr. Job Type ... Custom/native OpenXR rendering with Vulkan/OpenGL/DirectX * Understanding of rendering/perf ...

Spectral MD Inc

Software Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

OpenGL, Direct3D, Vulkan or Metal * Experience integrating OpenGL/Vulkan with C# via OpenTK, Silk ... Experience with multi-threaded programming and async execution models * Experience with 3D point ...

Nvidia

Principal Graphics Developer Tools Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$138K - $171K/yr

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 ...

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. * AI/ML modeling and training experience * Embedded system ...

Barco

Software Engineer

Beaverton, OR · On-site

Barco is a global company seeking a highly motivated and experienced software engineer to join ... Vulkan • Good understanding of software development process and coding standards • Good ...

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Vulkan Programmer information

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How much do vulkan programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for vulkan programmer in the United States is $52.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.99 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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
Infographic showing various Vulkan Programmer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 20% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 45% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,736 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Senior Graphics Programmer, Mobile (iOS/Android)

Senior Graphics Programmer, Mobile (iOS/Android)

PlayStation Global

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Why Sony Interactive Entertainment?
Sony Interactive Entertainment isn't just the Best Place to Play - it's also the Best Place to Work. Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) is the company behind the PlayStation brand. As a subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation, we're part of a proud legacy of innovation and excellence. SIE is a dynamic technology company, delivering cutting-edge hardware and network services to more than 100 million people and an entertainment leader, home to some of the most beloved and recognizable intellectual properties (IP) in the world. Our role at SIE is to create and nurture the experiences under the PlayStation brand, a name synonymous with entertainment excellence and creativity.
Senior Graphics Programmer, Mobile (iOS/Android)
PlayStation Studios / San Diego Studio
Why PlayStation? Why San Diego Studio?
Come join San Diego Studio in bringing MLB The Show to mobile platforms. Our focus is on delivering innovative, high-quality gaming experiences, and we are seeking a Senior Mobile Graphics Programmer to help advance the visual and technical quality of our mobile title on iOS and Android.
In this role, you will be responsible for developing and optimizing real-time graphics systems specifically for mobile devices, ensuring strong performance, scalability, and visual fidelity across a wide range of hardware configurations and device capabilities.
You will focus on writing and optimizing our mobile rendering engine, debugging graphics and performance issues, implementing new visual features, and ensuring the game takes full advantage of platform-specific capabilities across Apple and Android ecosystems.
The ideal candidate possesses strong problem-solving abilities, sharp attention to detail, and thrives both independently and in collaborative, cross-functional teams. They are passionate about GPU architecture and real-time rendering innovation, skilled in profiling and optimizing complex graphics systems, and experienced in shipping high-quality graphics features on constrained mobile hardware.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop, optimize, and maintain real-time rendering systems and graphics features specifically for mobile platforms (iOS and Android)
  • Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks related to rendering, memory usage, thermal constraints, battery usage, and device-specific hardware limitations
  • Ensure compatibility, stability, and performance across a broad range of mobile devices, from high-end flagship phones/tablets to lower-spec hardware
  • Implement scalable graphics systems that support varying performance tiers, screen resolutions, refresh rates, and GPU capabilities
  • Work with platform-specific graphics APIs and technologies such as Metal and Vulkan
  • Optimize shaders, rendering pipelines, texture usage, and asset memory footprint for mobile GPU architectures
  • Implement requested graphics features and enhancements in collaboration with the broader engineering, art, and rendering teams
  • Debug graphics issues across different chipsets and vendors
  • Stay current with emerging rendering techniques, mobile GPU technologies, and platform advancements to drive visual improvements and technical innovation

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related technical field
  • 5+ years of experience programming in C++ with a focus on performance-critical applications
  • Strong experience with graphics programming on mobile platforms, including low-level graphics APIs such as Metal or Vulkan
  • Proficiency in GPU shader programming and optimization for mobile platforms
  • Strong foundational math skills, especially linear algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
  • Hands-on experience with graphics profiling and debugging tools for mobile development
  • Proven ability to debug and optimize rendering performance across a wide range of mobile hardware and operating system versions
  • Strong understanding of the constraints and tradeoffs involved in mobile rendering, including memory bandwidth, battery usage, thermal throttling, frame pacing, and device fragmentation

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience shipping one or more mobile games or interactive applications on iOS and/or Android
  • Familiarity with platform-specific development environments and tools such as Xcode, Microsoft Visual Studio, GPU frame debuggers, and mobile performance analyzers
  • Experience optimizing rendering systems for a variety of mobile GPU architectures
  • Understanding of scalable rendering techniques for mobile, including dynamic resolution, LOD systems, texture streaming, and efficient post-processing
  • Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python is a plus
  • Experience working on cross-platform rendering systems is highly desirable
  • Passion for sports games and delivering visually compelling real-time experiences on mobile devices

At SIE, we consider several factors when setting each role's base pay range, including the competitive benchmarking data for the market and geographic location.
Please note that the base pay range may vary in line with our hybrid working policy and individual base pay will be determined based on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location.
In addition, this role is eligible for SIE's top-tier benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, matching 401(k), paid time off, wellness program and coveted employee discounts for Sony products. This role also may be eligible for a bonus package. Click here to learn more.
This is a flexible role that can be remote, with varying pay ranges based on geographic location. For example, if you are based out of Seattle, the estimated base pay range for this role is listed below.
$172,000-$258,100 USD
Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process personal information to support these checks.
Please refer to our Candidate Privacy Notice for more information about what personal information we collect, how we use it, who we share it with, and your data protection rights.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Sony is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All persons will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender (including gender identity, gender expression and gender reassignment), race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, marital or civil partnership status, disability, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, maternity or parental status, trade union membership or membership in any other legally protected category.
We strive to create an inclusive environment, empower employees and embrace diversity. We encourage everyone to respond.
Sony Interactive Entertainment is a Fair Chance employer and qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment.

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