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Vulkan Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Barco

Software Engineer

Oregon, OH · On-site

They are seeking a highly motivated and experienced software engineer to join their global ... Vulkan • Good understanding of software development process and coding standards • Good ...

Barco

Software Engineer

Oregon City, OR · On-site

$93K - $124K/yr

Demonstrated expertise in programming languages and software frameworks, including C/C++, DX, OGL/Vulkan * Understanding of Cloud architecture and knowledge of virtualization would be a plus * Good ...

Nvidia

Principal Graphics Developer Tools Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$159K - $196K/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 ...

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 ...

Barco

Software Engineer

Beaverton, OR

$93K - $124K/yr

Demonstrated expertise in programming languages and software frameworks, including C/C++, DX, OGL/Vulkan * Understanding of Cloud architecture and knowledge of virtualization would be a plus * Good ...

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.

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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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What cities are hiring for Vulkan Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Vulkan Programmer job openings:
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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.
Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

Sr/Staff Graphics Engineer

Figure

San Jose, CA

$150K - $275K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.

We are looking for a Senior/Staff Graphics Software Engineer to join the Platform Software team and own the graphics stack powering our robot's displays. You will build the rendering engine and UI framework that brings Figure's humanoid to life - crafting fluid, expressive interfaces that make every human-robot interaction feel natural and engaging. You will work closely with the Head of HMI to translate creative vision into pixel-perfect, high-performance reality on embedded hardware.

Responsibilities: 

  • Design, implement, and optimize the graphics rendering stack for robot head displays, from low-level GPU pipeline to high-level UI components.
  • Build and maintain Qt/QML-based applications targeting embedded Linux systems with strict CPU, GPU, and memory constraints.
  • Develop and tune shaders for real-time vector graphics, animations, and visual effects.
  • Implement and optimize Vulkan and OpenGL ES rendering pipelines to achieve smooth, high-framerate output.
  • Collaborate closely with the Design team and Head of HMI to implement and iterate on UI/UX designs, ensuring fidelity and responsiveness.
  • Profile and optimize rendering performance on resource-constrained embedded hardware, targeting consistent frame rates with minimal power draw.
  • Integrate graphics components into the broader Robot Platform software stack, working with middleware and embedded systems engineers.
  • Establish best practices for graphics development, testing, and CI integration within the platform team

Requirements: 

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or a related field.
  • At least 7 years of industry experience in graphics or UI engineering.
  • Expert-level proficiency in Qt and QML, including custom rendering and performance optimization.
  • Deep hands-on experience with Vulkan and OpenGL ES - including shader authoring (GLSL/SPIR-V) and render pipeline design.
  • Strong experience with vector graphics rendering and animation..
  • Proven track record developing on embedded or resource-constrained systems (limited RAM, GPU, thermal envelope).
  • Solid C++ skills and familiarity with Linux userspace development.
  • Strong cross-functional communication skills - comfortable working directly with designers and translating visual specs into technical implementations.

Bonus Qualifications: 

  • Hands-on experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
  • Experience with scene graph architectures or retained-mode rendering frameworks.
  • Experience with SVG or other vector graphics formats and their GPU-accelerated rendering.
  •  Knowledge of display hardware interfaces (MIPI DSI, HDMI) and display driver integration on embedded Linux.
  • Experience with EGLFS/DRM/KMS display backends.
  • Background in HMI or human-robot interaction design.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 - $275,000 annually.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended. 

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