Director of Characterisation

Director of Characterisation Overview

In this role, you will lead a team dedicated to ensuring the reliability of AI silicon before it reaches customers. Your primary focus will be on building and managing Graphcore’s characterisation capabilities for next-generation silicon and system platforms, ensuring that products perform consistently under real-world conditions.

Your responsibilities will include defining strategies for silicon bring-up and characterisation, overseeing the technical execution of these strategies, and shaping the necessary lab infrastructure for success. You will work closely with teams across silicon, hardware, manufacturing, architecture, and product development to tackle complex engineering challenges. This hands-on leadership position allows you to influence product design and the validation processes for future AI systems.

Team and Culture

This position is part of a newly formed team within Manufacturing Operations, providing you with the opportunity to establish team dynamics while fostering strong partnerships across engineering and operations. Daily interactions will involve collaboration with architecture, silicon, hardware, production testing, and product teams. The decision-making process is driven by data and technical evidence, emphasizing collaboration across disciplines. The company values ownership and clear communication, trusting you to lead technical direction, eliminate obstacles, and help teams progress confidently.

Essential Qualifications

• Proven track record in delivering complex technical projects as an individual contributor, manager, or project manager, with the ability to work independently and drive execution.
• Strong expertise in silicon digital device design, bring-up, characterisation, and silicon process technologies, with an understanding of their impact on performance.
• In-depth knowledge of high-performance processors, SoC architectures, and high-speed digital interfaces such as PCIe, Ethernet, and DDR.
• Experience with measurement automation, data analysis, and scripting/coding for automated test and analysis workflows, along with familiarity with ATE systems.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills, supported by a bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.

Desirable Qualifications

• Knowledge of PCBA and system-level technologies.
• Project management experience.

Benefits

• Unlimited annual leave.
• Up to 5% matched pension contributions.
• Phantom equity options to share in the company’s success.
• True flexibility in work location and hours.
• Office spaces designed for collaboration.
• Free food and an on-site barista.
• Health cash plan.
• Income protection and life assurance.
• Additional benefits such as private medical insurance and dental plans.

Graphcore is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can excel. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and we are an equal opportunity employer. If you require any adjustments during the interview process, please let us know, and we will be happy to accommodate you.

If you are interested in leading the team that validates the technology powering the next generation of AI systems, we encourage you to apply now to join Graphcore.

Degree Requirement: Not Specified

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