At a Glance
- Tasks: Own the test strategy for next-gen AI drivers and validate complex systems.
- Company: Join Graphcore, a leading innovator in AI compute technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a tailored benefits package.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with excellent career growth opportunities and mentorship.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on AI breakthroughs while developing your technical skills.
- Qualifications: Deep experience with Linux kernels and strong C++/Python skills required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Own the test strategy that proves Graphcore’s next generation drivers are production-ready. As a Staff System Software Engineer, you will shape how Graphcore validates complex device drivers and platform tools. You will bring technical depth across Linux kernels, drivers and systems software. Your work will help raise the quality bar for products that support the next generation of AI compute. You will influence design decisions, guide test infrastructure and drive reliability across the stack.
You will design, build, execute and report tests across component, system and acceptance levels. You will debug difficult issues using hardware and software tools, simulators and emulators. This is a hands-on technical leadership role with broad reach. You will help teams move quickly while protecting production quality.
The Drivers QA team verifies low-level kernel drivers, user-space libraries and platform tools. Work spans component tests, user acceptance and full system validation. You will work directly with driver developers, hardware, firmware, ML stack, Kubernetes and cloud management teams. Decisions are made close to the technical detail, with engineers expected to speak up and own outcomes. The team values engineers who think big, act fast and take responsibility. You will mentor others, raise standards and turn hard system problems into lasting improvements.
What we're looking for:
- Deep experience validating Linux kernels, device drivers or similar systems software
- Strong C++ and Python test development skills
- Experience with CI/CD, build tools and modern automated testing practices
- Ability to debug complex issues across hardware, firmware, drivers and upper software layers
- Proven ownership of technical work, priorities and delivery in an agile engineering setting
- Clear communication skills, including the ability to document and explain complex technical concepts
Benefits:
- Flexible working: Balance your work and personal life with greater flexibility
- Generous leave: Take time to rest, recharge and enjoy life outside of work
- Retirement planning support: Up to 5% matched pension
- Phantom equity: Share in Graphcore’s success
- Workplace experience: Enjoy thoughtfully designed office spaces for collaboration, with free food and an on-site barista to support your day
- Peace of mind protection: Income protection and life assurance to provide financial security for you and your loved ones
- Flexible benefits: Tailor your benefits package with a choice of additional options, including private medical insurance and dental cover
- Optional benefits: Dental cover, health cash plan, private medical insurance, cycle to work scheme, give as you earn
We welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to building an inclusive environment where everyone can do your best work. We’re an equal opportunity employer and recognise that everyone brings different strengths and perspectives. If you need any adjustments during the interview process, just let us know - we’re happy to support you.
Sponsorship: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship or support visa applications for this role.
Graphcore is one of the world’s leading innovators in Artificial Intelligence compute. It is developing hardware, software and systems infrastructure that will unlock the next generation of AI breakthroughs and power the widespread adoption of AI solutions across every industry. As part of the SoftBank Group, Graphcore is a member of an elite family of companies responsible for some of the world’s most transformative technologies.
Staff Software Engineer in Bristol employer: EngineersOfAI
Graphcore is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation thrives and every team member can contribute to groundbreaking advancements in AI technology. With a strong focus on employee growth, Graphcore provides ample opportunities for professional development and collaboration with industry experts, all while being part of the prestigious SoftBank Group. Located in a vibrant tech hub, employees enjoy a culture that values creativity, inclusivity, and the chance to make a significant impact in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Staff Software Engineer in Bristol
✨Join Local Tech Meetups
Get out there and mingle with fellow developers by joining local tech meetups. It’s a fantastic way to meet people who might be working at EngineersOfAI or know someone who does. Plus, you can pick up some trendy tech skills and trends while you're at it!
✨Contribute to Open Source Projects
Show off your coding chops by jumping into open-source projects. Not only does this give you practical experience, but it also gets you noticed in the dev community. You'll create a killer portfolio that speaks volumes about your skills to EngineersOfAI.
✨Tap into Online Developer Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online developer communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and even Reddit. Participate in discussions, share your projects, and build your visibility. We can often find opportunities through these channels that can lead to a full-time gig at companies like EngineersOfAI.
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Keep your eyes peeled on job boards that focus on tech roles. Sites like TechCareers or Stack Overflow Jobs can often have listings for companies like EngineersOfAI that might not show up on broader job sites. Make it a habit to check these regularly, and don’t hesitate to apply directly through our website!
We think you need these skills to ace Staff Software Engineer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your coding skills:When applying for a software engineering role, it's super important to showcase your coding skills. Make sure your CV includes your tech stack, any relevant programming languages you’re comfortable with, and examples of projects you've worked on. If you have a GitHub profile, link it up! We love to see code in action.
Tailor your portfolio:For a full-time role, we’d expect to see some solid examples of your work in your portfolio. Make sure to include at least two or three projects that highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to work with different technologies. Focus on the projects that are most relevant to the position at EngineersOfAI.
Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at EngineersOfAI and how your skills align with the role. Show us your passion for software development. We dig enthusiastic candidates who understand the value of collaboration and continuous learning!
Be clear and concise:When it comes to writing your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Avoid jargon that could confuse us and stick to simple, direct language. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable results where possible, and keep everything easy to read. A well-organised application goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at EngineersOfAI
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a full-time software engineering role, it's crucial that we stay sharp with our coding abilities. Expect technical questions that might involve solving problems on the spot or discussing algorithms. Practise on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank to get comfortable with the types of questions that often come up.
✨Know Your Tools and Frameworks
Make sure we’re well-acquainted with the tools and technologies listed in the job description. Familiarise ourselves with any specific frameworks or programming languages mentioned. If EngineersOfAI uses React or Node.js, for instance, be ready to discuss how we’ve used them in previous projects or coursework.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring along a portfolio that highlights our best work. This could be code samples, GitHub repositories, or any side projects we’ve built. Make sure we can talk through our thought process for each project, especially the challenges we faced and how we solved them—this shows our problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
While technical skills are key, full-time positions also require cultural fit. Be ready to discuss our previous experiences and how we handle teamwork, conflict, and deadlines. Brush up on the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to clearly articulate our past experiences when discussing how we've contributed to a team.
