Graduate software engineering opportunities

Applications open: 1st September

An opportunity to kick-start your software development career at an innovative and agile software company in the North West of England.

Role details: Graduate Software Developer

Timeframe: Permanent position.

Location: Knutsford, Cheshire, United Kingdom.

Salary: £55,000.

Benefits: Competitive salary, 8% employer pension contribution and many more. More information on our benefits can be seen here.

Discover why we work better together

Life assurance: 4x salary.

Income protection: Full pay for first 6 months of incapacity followed by 75% of salary plus pension contribution.

Private medical insurance (Bupa).

Holidays: 25 days plus public holidays.

Working hours: Core hours are 9am to 5pm, with flexibility to start any time between 8am and 9.30am.

Who are we?

We're the creators of Burp Suite, the world's leading software for web security testing, and we’re pioneering its future with an AI-first engineering approach. We are a dynamic team striving for excellence, embracing the cutting edge of technology to solve real-world security problems. Our culture is built on continuous self-improvement and personal development. We foster a collaborative and inclusive environment where your growth is our priority.

About PortSwigger

PortSwigger culture

PortSwigger workplace

What will you be doing?

From day one, you will be an active contributor, programming alongside experienced software developers on real production code and helping us build the next generation of AI-driven security tools. Forget rigid, predetermined paths; you will be expected to direct your own learning, take ownership, and make a tangible impact quickly. You'll:

Solve meaningful problems: Tackle complex, real-world challenges using computer science fundamentals and an AI-augmented approach.

Build with in-demand technologies: Work with tools and frameworks like Java, .NET, and React, and gain experience with platforms like AWS and Kubernetes.

Master AI-driven development: Learn how to leverage AI-powered coding tools, prompt engineering, and agentic workflows to create clean, maintainable, and efficient code.

Accelerate with Agile: Practise agile development techniques, to build and ship high-quality software at pace.

Software engineering at PortSwigger

How we approach software engineering

We firmly believe in continuous learning and we encourage all our people to devote time to personal development alongside getting their work done.

How will we support you?

We’re deeply invested in your learning, and we’ll give you the structure and support to go far, fast. Our grads make rapid progress because they’re embedded in real teams and mentored by experienced engineers.

Dedicated Technical Mentorship: You’ll be paired with a senior engineer who will help you set and achieve ambitious goals.

Hands-on Learning: You'll learn through working with experienced engineers on real projects - gaining practical skills and insights from day one.

Variety: You will have an opportunity to work on different products across varying technological stacks.

A Supportive Start: A buddy will help you navigate your early days and make sure you feel at home.

Resources for Growth: We’ll support you with whatever you need - books, certifications, or access to cutting-edge tools.

A Welcoming Community: From grad socials and lunches to company-wide events and special interest groups, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to connect and thrive.

What are we looking for?

We’re searching for curious and driven individuals with a passion for tackling challenging problems - who are willing and equipped to use AI as a key part of how they learn, build, and solve.

Technical & Cognitive Prowess

Strong Foundations: You’re on track for (or have recently achieved) a first-class degree (UK) or a GPA of 3.7-4.0 (US) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related STEM subject from a reputable University. You have previously achieved a minimum A*AA at A-level with an A* in Maths or Further maths, or equivalent. You understand core programming principles, data structures, and algorithms.

Practical AI Experience: You have practical experience beyond your coursework that shows your passion for technology. You have used AI-powered development tools (e.g., agentic coding tools like Claude Code, OpenAI Codex, Cursor, Windsurf, etc.) to enhance your personal projects, improve code quality, or learn more efficiently.

Advanced Problem-Solving: You exhibit strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with an ability to break down complex problems and a genuine excitement for applying computer science fundamentals to new challenges.

Quality-Focused Coding: You can recognize and articulate the qualities of well-structured, high-quality code and can write clean, logical, and well-tested code in at least one language.

Cultural Alignment

Curiosity & Drive: You’re driven by a desire to understand the “why” behind technical decisions, and you actively pursue knowledge - especially in fast-moving areas where clear resources may not yet exist. You learn independently and see AI not as a niche skill but as a core part of how modern engineers learn, build, and solve.

Growth Mindset: You see challenges as learning opportunities and show persistence when tackling difficult problems. You are not afraid to admit when you don't know something and are proactive in asking for help.

Ownership & Impact: Your core motivation is to deliver work that truly matters and solves real-world problems. You thrive on taking responsibility for your work from start to finish.

Collaboration: You enjoy learning from others, sharing ideas contributing to team goals, and being part of a high-performing team.

FAQs

When do applications open and is there an application deadline?

Applications for our early careers programmes are expected to open in September. We recruit on a rolling basis and therefore recommend applying as early as possible.

Can I re-apply if I am unsuccessful?

Yes. We value continuous development and your ongoing interest in our programmes. If you have been unsuccessful with a previous application, we would welcome you to reapply after a period of 12 months from your initial submission. This allows time for you to gain additional skills and experience that may strengthen a future application.

Do you provide visa sponsorship?

Yes, we do. We are a Home Office licensed sponsor and proudly welcome applications from candidates who require sponsorship. We support the Graduate visa route, and our recruitment team will work with successful candidates to determine the most appropriate pathway.

What are the minimum academic requirements?

We are looking for candidates with a strong record of academic excellence. Successful applicants typically have high grades, particularly in Mathematics or Further Maths, demonstrating the analytical skills needed to succeed on our programmes. In addition, you should be on track for, or have recently achieved, a 1st class degree from a leading university.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once you've submitted your application, our team will review it carefully. We do our best to process all applications as quickly as possible. You should expect to hear back from us via email regarding the next steps, so please keep an eye on your inbox.

Where does the graduate programme take place?

For the time being, all our Developer Graduate Programmes take place in our founding Knutsford office. While we have teams across the globe in locations like Atlanta and London, and collaborate with them daily, early careers opportunities are currently based exclusively in Knutsford.

Can I become a Graduate if I already graduated from my studies?

Yes, absolutely. We welcome applications from students completing their final year of studies and from recent graduates, whether you have completed an undergraduate, Master's, or PhD programme.

When does the programme start and what is the duration?

Our graduate programme has a duration of two years. While most of our graduates join us in September, we can be flexible on the start date to suit your needs.

What if I need to relocate?

We understand that accepting an offer may mean relocating, and we have support in place to make that move as smooth as possible.

For new graduates moving to the area, we offer a stay in our company guesthouse, the Swighouse. This allows you to settle into the company and the Knutsford area for your first few months, rent-free, giving you plenty of time to find a permanent place to live.

If staying at the Swighouse isn't a suitable option for you, we can look to offer a relocation package to assist with your move. This financial support is provided in line with HMRC guidance.

The best option for you can be discussed with our culture and finance team during the offer stage.

Our Application Process: What to Expect

We've designed our application process to give you the best opportunity to showcase your skills and to learn more about us. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect after you submit your application.

1. CV Review The first step is a review of your CV and application form. Our team will carefully assess your academic background, skills, and experiences to see how they align with the requirements of the programme.

2. Online Technical Assessment If your initial application is successful, you'll be invited to complete an online technical assessment. This stage is designed to evaluate your technical skills and problem-solving abilities relevant to the role you've applied for.

3. Video Interview Next, you’ll be invited to a video interview with a member from our TA team. This is our chance to learn more about you, your motivations for applying, and what you know about our company. It’s also a great opportunity for you to ask questions and see if we are the right cultural fit for you.

4. Onsite Assessment Day Successful candidates from the video interview stage will be invited to an assessment day at our Knutsford office. The day will involve a series of activities such as group exercises, individual activities, and further interviews, giving us a holistic view of your capabilities.

5. Offer The final stage is the offer. If you've successfully demonstrated your potential throughout the process, we will contact you to formally offer you a place on our graduate developer programme. Congratulations!

Meet the Swiggers

We are a diverse group of people with a wide range of interests and backgrounds. What Swiggers have in common is that they all love their work and are exceptionally good at what they do.

Jess H, Culture
Champion

Mohamed H, Software
Developer

Mike S, Software
Developer