Cloud Imperium Games
Senior Graphics Programmer

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
As a Senior Graphics Programmer in the Manchester Studio, you would be pushing forwards the rendering technology that powers a huge sandbox universe, spanning every conceivable scale from shading interstellar gas clouds, planets and asteroid belts, down to rendering individual human hairs.
You will also advance the core rendering technology that aspires to achieve photo-real visuals, such as physically based light, eye and lens simulations, as well as more low-level engine technologies such as shader building & compilation, content streaming systems, and the multi-threaded and cross-API renderer architecture.
All of this will be achieved using the latest PC hardware, technology and APIs to produce a fast and scale-able suite of visual technology to power some of the most ambitious games ever developed.
Founded in 2012, Cloud Imperium Games creates cutting-edge videogames that defy expectations. We're currently developing Star Citizen, a record-breaking multiplayer online space sim, and Squadron 42, a cinematic single-player adventure set in the same universe. Join us as we break boundaries and make videogame history.
For more information about life at Cloud Imperium Games, check this out - https://youtu.be/rH59z29Odfo
What does a Senior Graphic Programmer at Cloud Imperium Games do? In short, on daily basis you will: Drive research and implementation of new cutting-edge graphics technology and tools. Analyse, refactor and improve upon existing graphics technology. Assist and advise other software developers in use of graphics/rendering features, while debugging and fixing problems. Profile and optimise the entire rendering pipeline, including lighting and shading components of the game. Keep up to date with latest graphics and rendering techniques and tools, helping us to innovate, plan, and deliver full features.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
What do we expect from our Senior Graphic Programmers? Comfortable working with C++ in a large shared codebase, including testing, code-reviews, source-control as well as experience with a common shader language and modern graphics API. Good knowledge 3D rendering, 3D math, and optimization of the complete rendering pipeline. Strong software debugging skills to effectively track, diagnose and solve a variety of complex issues. Work well in a cooperative, cross-functional team environment; ability to translate technical jargon to non-technical audiences.
At Cloud Imperium Games we are looking for several Graphic Programmers with various levels of experience - from junior all the way to senior, and beyond! Therefore, if our Graphics team sounds like your perfect fit, please apply immediately!


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Diversity Statement CIG is a global company, staunchly committed to cultivating a culture and workplace that celebrates all backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives. Together, we are creating a space where authentic recognition, appreciation, and understanding of the importance of diversity is fostered by everyone. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strive to build a team that represents all walks of life, and we want every employee to bring all the things that make them unique to the work environment. The universe is as vast and varied as the people in it, and it's our differences that make it special.*
Fraud Statement We are aware of people receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from CIG. These types of fraud can be carried out through false websites, fake email addresses claiming to be from our company, or social media. We do not ask for your personal info like bank account numbers, identification numbers, etc through social media or chat-based apps, nor do we request or send money for the purchase of business equipment.
If you suspect fraud, please report it to your local authorities, as well as reaching out to us at info[@]cloudimperiumgames.com with any information you may have.*
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills