At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the test strategy for next-gen AI drivers and validate complex systems.
- Company: Join Graphcore, a leader in AI compute innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, matched pension, and phantom equity.
- Other info: Inclusive culture valuing diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on AI technology and drive quality standards.
- Qualifications: Experience with Linux kernels, C++, Python, and agile environments.
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
While we have outlined a set of requirements, we value transferable skills and diverse experiences. If you meet most of our essential criteria, we encourage you to submit an application and showcase how your background makes you a strong candidate.
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 their 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. Together, they share a bold vision: to enable Artificial Super Intelligence and ensure its benefits are accessible to everyone. Graphcore’s teams are drawn from diverse backgrounds and bring a broad range of skills and perspectives. A melting pot of AI research specialists, silicon designers, software engineers and systems architects, Graphcore brings together deep expertise to solve complex problems and deliver meaningful progress in AI compute.
Staff Software Engineer in Bristol employer: Graphcore, Ltd.
Graphcore is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Bristol. With flexible working arrangements, generous leave policies, and a commitment to employee growth through diverse experiences, you will thrive in an environment that values your contributions and supports your well-being. Join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of AI technology while enjoying thoughtfully designed office spaces and a range of tailored benefits.
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 Graphcore, Ltd. 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 Graphcore, Ltd..
✨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 Graphcore, Ltd..
✨Explore Job Boards Specifically for Tech Roles
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 Graphcore, Ltd. 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 Graphcore, Ltd..
Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at Graphcore, Ltd. 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 Graphcore, Ltd.
✨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 Graphcore, Ltd. 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.
