Senior System Software Engineer, Vulkan Performance

at Nvidia

📍 Santa Clara, United States

USD 152,000-287,500 per year

SENIOR

✅ On-site

Tech Stack
Tag name is followed by "@" symbol and proficiency level value. About proficiency levels:

1-2 — basic awareness. Minimal hands-on experience, and a rudimentary understanding of the technology's purpose;

3-6 — daily use. Comfortable and regular usage, capable of handling common tasks and challenges related to the technology;

7-9 — you are an expert, you can teach others, you know all the pitfalls and tricks;

10 — exceptional knowledge, comprehensive understanding, and adeptness in all aspects of the technology, including advanced problem-solving. Think twice before claiming or demanding such level.

API GPU OpenGL @ 4

Details

As a Vulkan Performance driver engineer, you will work across the game engine and bare metal to achieve optimal performance, power efficiency, and latency for the latest games and creative applications. You will collaborate with experts in computer graphics and high-performance processor design.

Responsibilities

Diagnose GPU and CPU performance bottlenecks in Vulkan and Proton titles.
Identify API usage changes that can improve performance and communicate recommendations through appropriate channels with third-party developers.
Implement driver performance improvements and resolve driver defects.
Collaborate with engineers on the team and across NVIDIA.
Develop a driver that leads the industry in quality and performance.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a similar field, or equivalent experience.
5 or more years of experience, or equivalent experience, in graphics software, system programming, or a related field.
Understanding of graphics fundamentals, operating systems, and computer architecture.
Experience with Vulkan, OpenGL, or DirectX.
Strong programming skills in C and C++, with familiarity with assembly code.
Experience developing highly optimized code.

Preferred Qualifications

Strong interest in and background with 3D graphics.
Experience working inside operating system kernels and device drivers.
Ability to creatively debug and solve complex, difficult-to-reproduce problems.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to be a standout colleague.
Self-motivated and able to work and communicate effectively in a multinational, multitime-zone corporate environment.

Compensation And Benefits

Base salary range: USD 152,000–241,500 for Level 3 and USD 184,000–287,500 for Level 4. Compensation is determined based on location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions.
Eligible for equity and benefits.
NVIDIA is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive work environment.
Applications will be accepted at least until July 31, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.