At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the design and development of next-gen AI acceleration hardware.
- Company: Join Graphcore, a leader in AI compute innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, health plans, and a vibrant office culture.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with excellent mentorship and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge AI hardware development.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronic Engineering or Computer Science; programming skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 38000 £ per year.
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.
Job Summary
As a Graduate SoC Architecture Engineer, you will work as part of our Silicon Architecture Team, supporting the design and development of next-generation AI acceleration hardware. You will contribute to the specification, modelling, and evaluation of sub-systems within complex System-on-Chip (SoC) designs. Working under the guidance of experienced architects, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams—including silicon design, verification, hardware, and software engineers—to help deliver high-performance, highly integrated silicon solutions. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your technical skills while gaining hands‑on experience in cutting‑edge AI hardware development.
The Team
The Silicon Architecture Team sits within the COO group. The SoC architects are responsible for the architectural specification, integration, modelling, validation and evaluation of numerous critical sub-systems, including high‑speed interfaces for our upcoming AI acceleration platforms. As a graduate engineer, you’ll be supported by experienced mentors and work closely with a wide range of teams across the business.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Support the development of SoC sub‑system specifications and design documentation
- Assist in analysing product requirements and understanding their impact on system design trade‑offs
- Collaborate with architecture, design, and software teams to explore and evaluate technical solutions
- Contribute to modelling and simulation of architectural features (e.g. using Python or Rust)
- Assist in the integration and validation of SoC components
- Support evaluation of third‑party IP and emerging technologies
- Participate in silicon bring‑up, testing, and performance analysis activities
- Document findings and communicate technical information clearly to the wider team
- Continuously learn and develop technical knowledge in SoC and AI hardware design
Candidate Profile
- A degree (or expected degree) in Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
- Understanding of computer architecture or digital systems (academic or project-based)
- Experience with programming (e.g. Python, Rust, C++, or similar)
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Enthusiasm for learning and working in a collaborative team environment
- Exposure to hardware design concepts (e.g. RTL, Verilog, or VHDL)
- Experience with modelling, simulation, or performance analysis
- Interest in AI, machine learning, or high‑performance computing
- Familiarity with interfaces such as PCIe, Ethernet, or memory systems (e.g. DDR)
In addition to a competitive salary, Graphcore offers flexible working, a generous annual leave policy, private medical insurance and health cash plan, a dental plan, pension (matched up to 5%), life assurance and income protection. We have a generous parental leave policy and an employee assistance programme (which includes health, mental wellbeing, and bereavement support). We offer a range of healthy food and snacks at our central Bristol office and have our own barista bar!
We welcome people of different backgrounds and experiences; we’re committed to building an inclusive work environment that makes Graphcore a great home for everyone. We offer an equal opportunity process and understand that there are visible and invisible differences in all of us. We can provide a flexible approach to interview and encourage you to chat to us if you require any reasonable adjustments.
Graduate SoC Architect employer: graphcore
Graphcore is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Bristol where innovation thrives. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will benefit from mentorship by experienced architects and the opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams on cutting-edge AI hardware projects. Our inclusive culture, competitive benefits, and flexible working arrangements make Graphcore a fantastic place to launch your career in technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate SoC Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Graphcore on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve worked on relevant projects, create a portfolio or GitHub repository. This way, you can demonstrate your programming chops and understanding of SoC design directly to the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of computer architecture and digital systems. Practice coding problems in Python or Rust, as these are key skills for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Graphcore team.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate SoC Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Graduate SoC Architect role. Highlight relevant projects, skills, and experiences that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits into our innovative world!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for AI and hardware design. Share why you’re excited about joining Graphcore and how you can contribute to our mission. Let us feel your passion!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your programming experience and any exposure to hardware design concepts. Whether it's Python, Rust, or your knowledge of interfaces like PCIe, we want to know what makes you a great fit for our Silicon Architecture Team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Graphcore!
How to prepare for a job interview at graphcore
✨Know Your SoC Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your understanding of System-on-Chip (SoC) architecture. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like high-speed interfaces and digital systems. This will help you speak confidently about how your knowledge aligns with Graphcore's innovative work in AI acceleration hardware.
✨Showcase Your Programming Skills
Be ready to discuss your programming experience, especially with languages like Python or Rust. Prepare examples of projects where you've used these skills, as this will demonstrate your technical capabilities and problem-solving approach to the interviewers.
✨Collaborative Mindset
Graphcore values teamwork, so highlight any experiences where you've worked in cross-functional teams. Share specific instances where collaboration led to successful outcomes, showing that you're not just a lone wolf but someone who thrives in a team environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the company culture. Inquire about the Silicon Architecture Team's current projects or how they integrate new technologies. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
