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Vulkan Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Avionics Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$100K - $185K/yr

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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Vulkan Programmer information

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How much do vulkan programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 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 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.
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What cities are hiring for Vulkan Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Vulkan Programmer job openings:
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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/Staff Graphics Engineer

Figure

San Jose, CA • On-site

$164K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. They are seeking a Senior/Staff Graphics Software Engineer to join the Platform Software team and own the graphics stack powering their robot’s displays, building the rendering engine and UI framework for engaging human-robot interactions.
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.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 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.
Preferred:
• 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.
Company:
Figure is an AI robotics company that develops autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. Founded in 2022, the company is headquartered in San Jose, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.