Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol

Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol

Bristol Full-Time 63000 - 77000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Fractile Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead system-level test strategies for cutting-edge AI accelerator server platforms.
  • Company: Fractile, a fast-growing tech company redefining AI with innovative hardware and software.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, modern offices, collaborative culture, and opportunities for rapid career growth.
  • Other info: Work in a vibrant environment with a focus on innovation and teamwork.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team to shape the future of AI technology and make a real impact.
  • Qualifications: 8+ years in test engineering, strong understanding of server architectures, and leadership skills.

The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.

Fractile is building silicon, systems and software which will redefine the frontier of AI: running the world’s most advanced models at radically higher speed and lower cost.

We have an exceptional team across hardware and software capable of bringing about this change, and we are growing fast to meet demand and deliver our product at scale.

You will own the architecture and execution of system-level test strategies for an AI accelerator server platform, covering the manufacture of individual servers and multi-node racks, and field deployment environments.

Lead the creation, automation, and integration of tests spanning hardware, firmware, OS, high-speed IO, cooling, and manageability subsystems.

Ensure scalable, reliable test processes that support high-volume manufacturing, rack integration, and in-field diagnostics and repair.

Key Responsibilities

  • Define the system-level test strategy for an AI accelerator server platform with hundreds of PCIe Gen6 links, liquid cooling, and heterogeneous compute/management subsystems.
  • Lead the design and implementation of structural, functional, stress and reliability tests executed on servers and full-rack configurations.
  • Manage the deployment of system test suites in manufacturing environments, ensuring high throughput, repeatability, failure isolation, and secure automation workflows.
  • Define and deliver test solutions for field diagnostics, repair, and maintenance—including remote test suites, health-check routines, failure triage, and component-level isolation.
  • Collaborate with hardware, firmware, OS, and platform teams to embed system-level test and diagnostic functions and ensure testability across the server and rack.
  • Drive test integration into Open BMC, Redfish, and platform-management frameworks; validate BMC/RMC test and maintenance behaviors, telemetry, and hardware-control functions.
  • Develop test automation infrastructure and tooling that spans multiple OS environments (embedded Linux on BMC/RMCs, server-class Linux on host CPUs).
  • Partner with rack integration teams to define tests executed at rack-level assembly.
  • Establish KPIs and dashboards for system test coverage, yield, throughput, failure rates, and field return correlation.
  • Manage internal test engineering team and relevant external partners.
  • Own system test documentation: test specifications, factory/field procedures, debug guides, and integration handbooks.
  • Required Qualifications
  • BS/MS in Electronics and Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in system-level or server platform validation, test engineering, or platform QA.
  • Strong understanding of server architectures, BMC/Open BMC/Redfish, Linux-based systems, and hardware/firmware interactions.
  • Experience validating or testing high-speed IO subsystems (PCIe Gen4/5/6 or comparable serial fabrics).
  • Experience leading test development for manufacturing or field diagnostics in large-scale server, storage, or networking systems.
  • Ability to lead teams, manage external vendors, and drive cross-functional test initiatives.
  • Strong skills in system debug, log analysis, failure isolation, and multi-component testing.
  • Familiarity with liquid-cooled or thermally complex server designs.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with accelerator-based compute (AI/ML, GPUs, custom ASICs).
  • Experience with rack-level architectures, DC power distribution, or cooling infrastructure.
  • Knowledge of reliability testing, environmental stress testing, and fleet-level monitoring.
  • How we work
  • Ownership and execution: you will have full agency to drive your work forward
  • Rapid iteration: we all work directly with top leadership to move from idea to hardware on ambitious timelines
  • Full-stack engagement: hardware, software, silicon, and modelling teams all work closely together to create a product with generational impact
  • Optimistic and pragmatic: we possess the will to win, and to do the hard work to get us there
  • Team player mentality: the mission is bigger than any of us, and we have the curiosity and technical focus to see the best idea shipped, no matter who’s it is

About us

  • Founded in 2022, team of 70+ which is expanding rapidly
  • Modern, open offices in London and Bristol
  • Collaborative, problem-solving culture built on deep curiosity, entrepreneurial initiative and technical fluency
  • Export control and security clearance

Certain roles may involve working on technologies subject to export restrictions.

Applicants may be required to undergo additional eligibility checks to ensure compliance with applicable law.

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Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol employer: Fractile Ltd

Fractile Ltd is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant city of Bristol, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation among hardware, software, and ML teams. With a competitive salary, equity options, and a flexible hybrid working model, employees are empowered to thrive both professionally and personally, while also benefiting from ample opportunities for growth and development in the cutting-edge field of AI acceleration hardware.

Fractile Ltd

Contact Details:

Fractile Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol

Join Engineering Meetups!

Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol role you’re after at Fractile Ltd.

Show Off Your Projects!

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Engage with Online Communities

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Apply Through Company Websites

When you spot a role like Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol at Fractile Ltd, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.

We think you need these skills to ace Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol

System-Level Test Strategy
Test Automation
High-Speed IO Validation
BMC/OpenBMC/Redfish Knowledge
Linux-Based Systems
Failure Isolation
Debugging Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Hardware System Test Engineering Team Leader Bristol, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.

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Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Fractile Ltd specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!

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How to prepare for a job interview at Fractile Ltd

Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles

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Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.

Relate Your Experience to the Role

In a full-time role, employers like Fractile Ltd want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.

Know Your Tools and Software

Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.