3D & Graphics Programming Jobs in XR
Push the boundaries of real-time rendering for immersive experiences
What is 3D & Graphics Programming in XR?
Graphics programming in XR involves creating and optimizing the rendering systems that display virtual content in AR/VR headsets. This includes working with low-level graphics APIs (OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal, DirectX), writing shaders, implementing rendering techniques, and optimizing for the unique constraints of XR—stereo rendering, low latency, and consistent high frame rates.
XR graphics programmers work on everything from engine-level rendering pipelines to custom visual effects. They tackle challenges like foveated rendering, reprojection, efficient transparency, and maintaining visual quality while hitting strict performance budgets on mobile and standalone hardware.
Why It Matters in AR/VR
Graphics programming expertise is essential in XR because:
**Performance is Non-Negotiable**: VR requires 90+ FPS with minimal latency. Graphics optimization directly impacts user comfort and experience quality.
**Hardware Diversity**: XR spans mobile chipsets to high-end GPUs, requiring deep understanding of performance characteristics across platforms.
**Visual Quality Expectations**: Users expect increasingly realistic graphics, driving demand for advanced rendering techniques.
**Specialized Challenges**: Stereo rendering, lens distortion correction, and foveated rendering require XR-specific expertise.
**Emerging Hardware**: New displays (HDR, high resolution, variable refresh) and features (eye tracking for foveated rendering) create ongoing optimization opportunities.
Typical Job Titles
Graphics Engineer (XR)Rendering EngineerShader ProgrammerTechnical Artist (Shaders)GPU EngineerReal-Time Rendering EngineerGraphics Optimization EngineerEngine Programmer
Top Employers
Meta
Apple
NVIDIA
Unity Technologies
Epic Games
Qualcomm
Valve
Sony
Related Skills
OpenGLVulkanMetalHLSL/GLSLC++GPU ArchitecturePerformance Profiling
Related Categories
Latest 3D & Graphics Programming Jobs in XR
32 jobs

Software Engineer C++, 3D Graphics, Level 4
Snap Inc.
Santa Monica, USA
157k-235k $
Posted 26 days ago

Concept Modeling Designer
Meta
Seattle, USA
139k-200k $
Posted 27 days ago

Embedded Engineer, Graphics
Snap Inc.
Vienna, Austria
Posted 28 days ago

Software Engineer - Apple Vision Pro
Apple
Cupertino, US
171k-302k $
Posted 1 month ago

Staff Software Engineer, Extended Reality Platform
San Jose, USA • San Francisco, USA
197k-291k $
Posted 1 month ago

Senior Software Engineer - XR
NVIDIA Corporation
Seattle, USA
148k-287k $
Posted 1 month ago

Sr Staff VFX Artist
PlayStation
Los Angeles, USA
143k-215k $
Posted 1 month ago

AR/VR Graphics Software Engineer - Personas, Vision Products Software
Apple
Cupertino, USA
147k-272k $
Posted 1 month ago

Software Engineer, OS
Meta
Taipei, Taiwan
Posted 1 month ago

Staff Mixed Reality Engineer
Varjo
Helsinki, Finland
Posted 1 month ago