Vacancy : Software Engineer in Test - Bristol

Why PlayStation®?

PlayStation isn’t just the Best Place to Play — it’s also the Best Place to Work. PlayStation has thrilled gamers since 1994, when the original PlayStation was launched. Today, PlayStation is recognised as a global leader in interactive and digital entertainment.

SN Systems is a core part of Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), the organisation which manages PlayStation.

We offer a diverse, inclusive culture where every one of our employees has room to grow.

The Role 

Join the team responsible for developing the tests, tools, and infrastructure that ensure the quality of the software toolchain used to build every PlayStation®5 game. You’ll collaborate closely with the toolchain development team to design tests and testing systems for new features as they are developed. In addition, you will help design and implement new tools and techniques to ensure the overall quality of the product. 

Our toolchain is based on a private fork of the open-source LLVM project, continuously updated through an automated merge system. Thanks to our advanced continuous testing we have a proven track record of identifying and reporting new bugs in the open-source project very quickly. 

This role offers a great opportunity to build a career in Software Engineering in Test, working on industry-leading development tools. You will receive mentorship from experts in the field and have opportunities for continuous learning.

What You’ll Be Doing 

  • Collaborating with development teams to design and implement tests and test systems for new toolchain features, ensuring robust quality at every stage of development.
  • Contributing to the development of internal testing tools and frameworks, helping to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our processes.
  • Maintaining test jobs on our Jenkins CI system, ensuring smooth execution and identifying opportunities to optimize test performance.
  • Analysing test results from automated tests to identify trends, areas for improvement, and potential issues that need to be addressed.
  • Participating in code and documentation reviews, offering feedback to improve test coverage, code quality, and overall development workflows.

What We Are Looking For

Must Have

  • A BSc in a relevant technical or scientific field (such as Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics), or equivalent practical experience demonstrating appropriate technical skills.
  • Understanding of software testing techniques, whether gained through academic coursework, personal projects, internships, or professional experience.
  • Ability to write and maintain unit and system tests for software applications, ensuring quality and reliability. Experience developing testing frameworks is a plus for more experienced candidates.
  • Proficiency in scripting languages, such as Python, to automate test cases and workflows. Familiarity with test automation tools or frameworks would be a bonus for candidates with professional experience.
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical information both in writing and verbally to team members of varying levels of expertise.
  • Collaborative mindset, capable of building strong working relationships and working effectively across teams, regardless of experience level or reporting line.

Nice To Have

  • Experience in triaging software bugs and collaborating with development teams. For more experienced candidates, experience handling complex bug reports is a plus.
  • Experience testing released software products, particularly developer tools or similar platforms. Experience with more complex testing environments is valued for experienced candidates.
  • Familiarity with advanced software testing techniques, such as coverage-directed fuzzing or using sanitizers. This knowledge can be acquired on the job, so candidates with a learning mindset are encouraged to apply.
  • Practical knowledge of a system-level language such as C++ and the ability to navigate and test large codebases, whether gained through coursework, projects, or professional experience.

Benefits Of Working At SN Systems 

  • Flexible working, giving staff the opportunity to work in the office or combine working at home and spending time in the office for collaboration and moments that matter.
  • Time and space to research and develop cutting edge technologies.
  • Opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills by learning about the latest techniques in a team of experts with a wealth of industry experience.
  • Relaxed working environment with high level of trust and autonomy. All staff are encouraged to express their views and challenge the status quo.
  • Annual bonus opportunity.
  • 25 days holiday plus national holidays.
  • Private medical insurance.
  • Generous staff discount across all Sony products.
  • Plus, many more exciting benefits.

Application Process

Please submit a CV and covering letter indicating why you are interested in the role, and your relevant experience. Send your application to sn-careers@sony.com.  

Candidates must be eligible to work legally within the British Isles. 

About SN Systems

We create development tools for PlayStation platforms including PlayStation®5 and PlayStation®VR2. From debuggers and performance analyzers to compilers and target communication servers, our products are designed to make PlayStation developers' work easier and more efficient. We have a deep understanding of game developers' needs and use our expertise to create a range of advanced development tools.

SN Systems is part of Sony Interactive Entertainment's (SIE) Foundational Systems and Experiences Engineering Group (FSEE), which is in turn part of PlayStation Experience Group (PEG). SN Systems has created the programming tools used on every PlayStation home and portable platform.

We currently employ c. 100 people in Bristol (HQ), Dublin and San Mateo in a dynamic environment where change is the norm.

Equal Opportunity Statement

SN Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All persons will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, legally protected physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, genetic information or membership in any other legally protected category.

We strive to create an inclusive environment, empower employees, and embrace diversity. We encourage everyone to respond.