ZK Proof Engineer

Ethereum Job Board; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading tech firm in crypto is seeking a ZK Proof Engineer to implement and optimize cryptographic code for zero-knowledge proof generation. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in math and cryptography, proficiency in Rust, and a security mindset. Responsibilities include building systems that connect low-level computer systems with cutting-edge ZK proof systems. This role allows for collaboration in a fast-paced environment with a preference for in-person work in NYC, but remote candidates are also welcome.

Qualifications

• Strong engineering design skills.
• Ability to work across the stack.
• Experience in challenging software projects.

Responsibilities

• Build systems to interface between low‑level computer systems and zero‑knowledge proof systems.
• Optimize ZK provers and implement novel ZK circuits.

Skills

Strong background in math/cryptography

Proficiency in Rust

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Security mindset

Clear communication

Collaboration

Strong work ethic

Tools

LLVM

C/C++

Job description

Axiom is using zero knowledge proofs to scale smart contract applications in a new way. We are a small but incredibly strong team backed by the best investors in crypto. We’re looking for exceptional people who are excited to work on challenging and impactful problems in a fast-paced environment. Our office is in NYC and working in person in NY is our strong preference, but we’re open to remote candidates as well.

We recently released OpenVM, a performant and modular zkVM framework built for customization and extensibility. OpenVM allows developers to verify the correct execution of Rust code in a flexible and performant way. We are building new products using OpenVM and supporting teams building on OpenVM.

About the Role

We are looking for a ZK Proof Engineer who will implement and optimize cutting‑edge cryptographic code for zero‑knowledge proof generation.

We are looking for someone with strong engineering design skills, the ability to work across the stack, and a security mindset. We also value the ability to make pragmatic technology choices which empower our small team without adding too much overhead.

Responsibilities

• You will be responsible for building systems to interface between low‑level computer systems like the RISC‑V ISA, compiler frameworks like LLVM, and database backends and connecting them with cutting‑edge zero‑knowledge proof systems.
• The role will involve both optimizing ZK provers and implementing novel ZK circuits. Your work will require making design choices to enable rapid development of secure and efficient systems.

Qualifications

• You have a strong background in math/cryptography, or strong problem‑solving skills and interest in zero‑knowledge proofs.
• You have proficiency in Rust, C/C++, or a similarly performant backend language. We work primarily in Rust.
• You are extremely detail oriented and have a security mindset.
• You’ve worked on challenging software projects and have an eye for performance.
• You’re a clear communicator and value collaboration.
• You have a strong bias toward action.
• You have an extremely strong work ethic.

Nice to Have

• You have experience with compiler frameworks like LLVM or MLIR.
• You've worked with aspects of low level computer architecture like RISC‑V or programmed FGPAs or other custom hardware.
• You have experience with database backends, including experience with query planning or low level query engines.
• You've done research in mathematics, theoretical computer science, or theoretical physics.
• You have experience with low-level details of Ethereum.

We welcome diverse backgrounds. Some non‑traditional profiles that may be a good fit include high‑frequency trading, math/physics/CS academia, and hardware engineering.