Graphics Engineer - NBA 2K

Visualconcepts; Novato (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 174,300; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Paid vacation time (15-25 days)

401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program

Wellbeing programs and fitness reimbursements

Job summary

Visual Concepts is seeking a Graphics Engineer to work on cutting-edge rendering technology for their NBA 2K team in Novato, CA. This role requires at least 3 years of game development experience and strong proficiency in HLSL.

You will collaborate with art and design teams to optimize GPU performance and elevate visual quality in games. The position offers competitive compensation and a range of benefits including health insurance, paid leave, and a 401(K) plan.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in game or graphics development.
• Advanced proficiency in HLSL or a comparable shading language.
• Deep understanding of optimization techniques and trade-offs.

Responsibilities

• Explore and implement new rendering technologies.
• Optimize GPU performance for gameplay.
• Partner with art and design teams to enhance visuals.
• Lead improvements in VFX, lighting, and post-processing.
• Participate in rendering tech upgrade initiatives.

Skills

HLSL proficiency

3D math concepts

Game development experience

Optimization techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent

Job description

What We Need

At Visual Concepts, we believe great games are made by diverse and empowered teams with a shared passion for play. As one of the world’s top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to critical acclaim and commercial success. Our teams are independent and entrepreneurial. Our studios in Novato, Irvine, Budapest, Shanghai, Austin, Boise, Seoul, and Parksville, Canada are committed to artistry and technical innovation, offering top candidates the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the smartest and most creative minds in the industry.

Our talented NBA 2K team is looking for a Graphics Engineer with a passion for cutting‑edge rendering technology. In this role, you’ll work on the design, development, and maintenance of high-performance C/C++ code and HLSL shaders, contributing directly to the visual fidelity of our games. We welcome candidates across all experience levels, from junior to senior, with compensation based on experience. If you're a creative problem solver who thrives on pushing the boundaries of real‑time graphics and enjoys collaborating in a high‑caliber engineering environment, we want to hear from you. This position reports to the Lead Graphics Engineer.

What You Will Do

• Explore and implement new rendering technologies to elevate visual quality
• Optimize GPU performance to support smooth, high‑fidelity gameplay
• Partner with art and design teams to define and enhance the look and feel of the NBA 2K series
• Lead improvements in VFX, lighting, and post‑processing graphics features
• Participate in system‑wide upgrade initiatives to keep our rendering tech current

Who Will Be A Great Fit

• Most importantly: thoughtful, passionate, and driven
• 3+ years of experience in game or graphics development
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent professional experience
• Advanced proficiency in HLSL or a comparable shading language
• Strong grasp of 3D math concepts and applications
• Deep understanding of optimization techniques and trade‑offsDemonstrate ability to write efficient, portable, reliable, and readable code
• Fluent in English, both written and verbal
• Love for video games (not just ours!)

Might Be Nice

• Experience shipping a AAA title
• Deep expertise in areas such as physically‑based rendering, real‑time global illumination, post‑processing effects, or simulating natural phenomena
• Familiarity with applying machine learning techniques to graphics‑related challenges

This position may be based onsite at our Novato, CA studio or remotely from an approved location within the United States or Canada, subject to company payroll and legal requirements. Below are the expected salary and wage ranges for applicants based in locations where the pay transparency law is in effect: California: $120,000 - $174,300 per year. New York State (inclusive of New York City): $108,000 - $157,000 per year. Washington: $120,000 - $174,300 per year. New Jersey: $108,000 - $157,000 per year. British Columbia: $100,000 -$154,300 (CAD) per year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job‑related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program. Regular, full‑time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company’s discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year; paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support; family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness‑related expenses. Ontario only: The use of Artificial Intelligence is not being used to screen candidates. The position is for an existing vacancy.

To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website at www.vcentertainment.com