Staff SoC Architect

About this role

About the job Shape the SoC architecture behind Graphcore's next generation of AI acceleration platforms. Graphcore is expanding its Silicon Architecture Team in Bristol to deliver complex AI compute platforms. As a SoC Architect, you will define how critical subsystems are specified, modelled and integrated. You will turn product requirements into architecture choices across interfaces, interconnect, memory and platform behaviour. Your work will guide implementation, validation and trade-offs across multiple chip programmes. You will work with processor, SoC and system architects, plus design, verification, hardware and software teams. Together, you will evaluate IP, resolve integration questions and support silicon bring-up where needed. This is a rare chance to influence real AI silicon while Graphcore scales its contribution to SoftBank Group's AI ecosystem. The team and culture The team owns SoC architecture, subsystem modelling and system-level trade-offs across future AI acceleration platforms. Work moves from requirements to specifications, models, reviews and guidance for implementation teams. People here are expected to take responsibility early and keep decisions moving. You will speak directly with adjacent teams to clarify constraints, challenge assumptions and close open questions. Decisions are made through technical evidence, clear specifications and direct cross-functional discussion. The team values people who think big, act fast and speak up when architecture needs sharper choices. What we're looking for • Experience specifying or architecting complex SoC devices or subsystems. • Strong understanding of computer architecture, SoC integration, RTL development and verification processes. • Ability to turn product requirements into clear technical specifications and practical design trade-offs. • Software development capability, ideally with Python, C++, Rust or architecture modelling experience. • Knowledge of PCIe, LPDDR, DDR, Ethernet, high-speed interfaces or on-chip interconnect. • Confidence working across design, verification, hardware, software and systems teams. While we have outlined a set of requirements, we value transferable skills and diverse experiences. We also welcome engineers returning to the profession after a career break, including through returnship routes. 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 · Electric Vehicle Scheme: Choose an electric vehicle and lease it through salary sacrifice · 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. Join the Team at Graphcore 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. Ready to shape the architecture behind Graphcore’s next generation of AI acceleration platforms? Apply now to be part of the journey.