How to get a job at Graphcore

Graphcore is an AI hardware and software company developing processors and platforms optimised for artificial intelligence workloads. The company's IPU (Intelligence Processing Unit) technology represents a fundamentally different approach to AI computing.

Founded in 2016, Graphcore is building the infrastructure for next-generation AI applications.

The working environment at Graphcore reflects the startups sector — structured but dynamic, with a mix of planned project work and responsive tasks. Most roles involve regular collaboration with colleagues across different teams and functions, with clear expectations for deliverables and timelines. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are increasingly common, and the organisation recognises that different roles require different working patterns.

As a 400+-person organisation, Graphcore offers the chance to make a visible, measurable impact. Teams are small and close-knit — you'll know most of your colleagues by name within your first few weeks. The flip side of a smaller organisation is that you may need to wear multiple hats, but many people find this variety energising and a faster route to building broad experience.

The culture at Graphcore shapes how the day feels beyond just the work itself. Colleagues describe the environment as one that values Technical Excellence and AI/ML Knowledge. Lunch breaks, team socials, and informal catch-ups are part of the rhythm — Graphcore recognises that building relationships across the organisation is as important as the deliverables themselves. Most employees report that the people are one of the best things about working here, and that the team dynamic makes challenging work feel manageable.

Career progression at Graphcore follows a relatively clear path for most roles. Promotions typically depend on demonstrating increased responsibility, deeper expertise, and leadership capability — whether that's leading teams, managing clients, or driving technical innovation. The organisation values both specialist depth and the ability to take on broader management responsibilities, so there are usually multiple progression routes available. Don't assume you need to move into management to advance — many startups organisations increasingly recognise and reward technical and specialist career paths.

Graphcore invests in structured learning and development programmes, including access to training courses, conferences, and professional certifications. Many employees report that the L&D budget is generous and genuinely encouraged — not just a line in the benefits package that nobody actually uses. Whether it's technical upskilling, leadership development, or industry certifications, there's real support for continuous learning. While formal mentoring programmes may vary across departments, the culture generally encourages learning from more experienced colleagues. Building relationships with senior team members is one of the most effective ways to accelerate your development — seek out people whose career trajectory you admire and ask them for advice regularly.

For ai hardware and software professionals, Graphcore offers exposure to projects and challenges that build a strong CV whether you stay long-term or move on after a few years. The skills and experience you gain — particularly around Technical Excellence and AI/ML Knowledge — are transferable across the startups sector and beyond. Internal mobility is possible for strong performers, with opportunities to move between teams, departments, or even locations as your career develops. Many senior leaders at Graphcore started in entry-level or early-career positions, which speaks to the genuine career development opportunities available.