Jan 23, 2025

Senior Software Engineer, ZK

$237,000 - $288,000 yearly
  • RISC Zero
Full time Cryptography Engineering

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a world-class Senior Software Engineer to enhance our zero-knowledge proof system and stay at the forefront of cryptographic innovation. This role involves the development of advanced cryptographic protocols tailored for zero-knowledge proof applications and the enhancement of our core proof system, zkVM.

We are looking for candidates who are deeply invested in the field of zk cryptography and who exhibit a strong sense of curiosity and dedication to the craft. If you have a track record of developing cryptographic solutions and are excited about pioneering new protocols in the ZKP space, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and refine cryptographic protocols for various use cases of ZKPs.

  • Continuously improve the zkVM, our core proof system, ensuring its robustness and efficiency.

  • Provide support for ZKP-enabled cryptographic protocols, including analysis for partners and the creation of demonstrations.

  • Collaborate with team members to support platform development from a cryptographic perspective.

  • Conduct meticulous code reviews for contributions that involve sensitive cryptographic elements.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Proven applied cryptography experience, such as having written cryptographic code that is currently utilized in production environments.

  • Deep understanding of the Rust programming language. 

  • Familiarity with Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) systems and a passion for keeping up to date with advancements in this field.

  • A strong mathematical foundation, capable of engaging with new research topics in mathematics related to cryptography.

  • Exceptional interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with team members and external partners.

  • An acute attention to detail, ensuring precision in code development and protocol design.

What We Offer

  • Salary: Competitive range of $237-288K USD

  • Professional Development: Access to leadership coaching and numerous learning opportunities.

  • Work Flexibility: Remote work with up to 20% travel for team meetings and events, plus a Seattle co-working space.

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage with Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield (US employee), including significant premium contributions. Gold-level insurance for international employees via Deel.

  • Retirement Plan: 401k to support your future or statutory plans in your given country.

  • Equity: Generous company equity via Profit Incentive Units (PIUs), vesting monthly.

  • Vacation: Unlimited PTO, with 3-5 weeks standard.

  • Holidays: 11 paid holidays for rest and rejuvenation.

  • Culture: A supportive, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.

About Us

We're on a mission to transform the internet for the better. Our team of innovative hackers, visionary futurists, and passionate nerds is devoted to creating a digital space that's safe, inclusive, and empowers everyone. By developing the world's first zero-knowledge virtual machine, we've laid the groundwork for running arbitrary code as a zero-knowledge proof. Utilizing a ZK Coprocessor to assist or enhance the compute of an on-chain application, we have created a unique package - the RISC Zero ZK Coprocessor, comprised of the zkVM, Bonsai, and ETH Relay. Now, we're ambitiously constructing an entire ecosystem around this groundbreaking technology.


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