ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Vulkan Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PlayStation Global

Sr Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA

$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 ...

Nvidia

Backend Compiler Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

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 ...

Nvidia

Backend Compiler Engineer

Redmond, WA · 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 ...

Nvidia

Backend Compiler Engineer

Austin, TX · 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 ...

Nvidia Corporation

Backend Compiler Engineer

Austin, TX · 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 ...

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 ...

Nvidia

OR · 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 ...

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 ...

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.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVulkan Programmer Jobs

Vulkan Programmer information

See salary details

$13

$52

$71

How much do vulkan programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 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.
More about Vulkan Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Vulkan Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Vulkan Programmer job openings:
What states have the most Vulkan Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Vulkan Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Vulkan Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vulkan Programmer jobs are:
Vulkan Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vulkan Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,736 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Sr Software Engineer

Sr Software Engineer

PlayStation Global

San Mateo, CA

$139K - $183K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities:

  • Drive video codecs architecture design and development for PlayStation SDKs and cloud gaming platform.
  • Drive product-focused algorithm innovation for video codecs, aligning performance optimizations with product and user requirements
  • Own multiple encoder/decoder features with strong accountability, leveraging ML-based techniques for video quality enhancement
  • Partner with platform, hardware, and system software teams to investigate and resolve complex, high-priority issues across the codec pipeline.
  • Evaluate emerging codec and media technologies and recommend integration strategies for future platforms.

Required Qualifications:

  • Expertise with video compression standards (e.g. AV1, VVC, VP9, H.265, H.264)
  • Knowledge of multi-threaded programming and debugging using C and C++
  • Proficient with a wide range of development tools, including IDEs, Git/SVN, JIRA
  • Proven ability to deliver features from design to validation with clean, efficient code.
  • Master's degree or equivalent

Nice to have:

  • 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 experience with multimedia frameworks
  • Knowledge of SIMD optimizations on real time systems
  • Contributions to open-source projects in multimedia, systems programming, or performance engineering.

#LI-RG1

Apply