Lead Solidity Developer - DeFi Innovations

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Professional development

Office in Rustenburg

Team events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Solidity Developer to spearhead DeFi smart contract design and security from our Rustenburg offices. You will mentor junior engineers, drive architectural decisions, and ensure high standards of code quality and security.

The role requires deep Solidity expertise, strong leadership, and a passion for blockchain. Join a fast-growing startup delivering robust DeFi solutions in a dynamic team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of software development; at least 3 years in blockchain/smart contracts.
• Expert Solidity; knowledge of Vyper or Rust is a plus.
• Strong cryptography and security auditing awareness.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of Solidity smart contracts for DeFi.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide technical direction.
• Ensure secure, gas-efficient contract code and thorough reviews.
• Collaborate with PMs to define contract requirements and roadmaps.
• Research new blockchain tech and protocols; stay ahead on security.
• Coordinate testing and audits across unit and integration tests.

Skills

Solidity

Blockchain

Leadership

Security best practices

Code reviews

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science / Software Engineering

Tools

Hardhat

Truffle

Foundry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a fast-growing startup at the forefront of decentralized finance (DeFi), is seeking a talented and experienced Lead Solidity Developer to spearhead their smart contract development efforts. This exciting opportunity is based in our client's offices in Rustenburg, North West . You will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and securing the core smart contracts that power innovative DeFi products. As a lead developer, you will also mentor junior engineers, contribute to architectural decisions, and ensure the highest standards of code quality and security. We are looking for a proactive individual with a passion for blockchain technology and a proven track record of delivering robust and efficient smart contracts. This position offers the chance to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving industry and work alongside a team of passionate blockchain enthusiasts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of complex Solidity smart contracts for DeFi applications.
• Develop and maintain robust, secure, and gas-efficient smart contract code.
• Conduct thorough code reviews and implement best practices for smart contract development and security.
• Mentor and guide junior blockchain developers, fostering their technical growth.
• Collaborate with product managers and other stakeholders to define smart contract requirements and roadmaps.
• Research and integrate new blockchain technologies and protocols.
• Ensure smart contracts undergo rigorous testing, including unit, integration, and security audits.
• Contribute to the overall technical strategy and architectural decisions of the blockchain platform.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to deployed smart contracts.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in software development, with at least 3 years focused on blockchain and smart contract development.
• Expert-level proficiency in Solidity and experience with other smart contract languages (e.g., Vyper, Rust) is a plus.
• Deep understanding of the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) and its nuances.
• Hands‑on experience with DeFi protocols, token standards (ERC-20, ERC-721, etc.), and related concepts.
• Familiarity with blockchain development frameworks and tools such as Hardhat, Truffle, or Foundry.
• Strong knowledge of cryptography, security best practices, and common vulnerabilities in smart contracts.
• Experience with formal verification and security auditing processes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and bonus structure commensurate with experience.
• Employees receive a comprehensive medical aid plan and a generous retirement fund contribution.
• The company provides ample opportunities for professional development, including access to specialized training and industry conferences.
• A vibrant office culture in Rustenburg encourages collaboration and innovation.
• Team events and a focus on work-life balance contribute to a positive and rewarding work environment.
• You will be working with state‑of‑the‑art technology in a cutting‑edge industry.