Senior Blockchain Engineer - Protocol Development

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Blockchain Engineer to lead core protocol development from a fully remote setup. You will design, architect, and implement the platform's infrastructure, collaborating with a global team.

The role requires deep knowledge of distributed systems and cryptography, with mentorship for junior engineers and influence on technical strategy. Remote-first culture emphasizes asynchronous comms, clear docs, and robust security.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of software engineering experience with blockchain and distributed systems.
• Deep understanding of consensus protocols (PoW, PoS, Tendermint).
• Proficiency in Go, Rust, or C++.
• Experience with cryptography, secure coding, and network security.
• Ability to design and implement large-scale distributed systems.
• Strong communication and remote teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop core blockchain protocols, including consensus, P2P networking, and state management.
• Lead implementation of new features and upgrades for the blockchain network, ensuring stability and security.
• Optimize network performance, throughput, and data consistency.
• Conduct security analysis and defend against threats.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide technical growth.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technical strategy for the ecosystem.

Skills

Blockchain technology

Distributed systems

Go

Rust

C++

Cryptography

Secure coding

Networking security

Remote collaboration

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a highly experienced Senior Blockchain Engineer to lead critical protocol development initiatives. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute from anywhere while collaborating closely with a global team. You will be instrumental in designing, architecting, and implementing the core infrastructure of our next-generation blockchain platform. This role demands a deep understanding of distributed systems, cryptography, and consensus mechanisms, coupled with a passion for pushing the boundaries of decentralized technologies. You will have the autonomy to drive significant technical decisions and mentor junior engineers in a remote-first culture that prioritizes asynchronous communication, clear documentation, and collaborative problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop core blockchain protocols, including consensus algorithms, P2P networking, and state management.
• Lead the implementation of new features and upgrades for the blockchain network, ensuring stability and security.
• Optimize network performance, transaction throughput, and data consistency.
• Conduct in-depth security analysis and implement robust defenses against potential threats.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering technical growth within the team.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technical strategy for the blockchain ecosystem.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in software engineering, with a significant focus on blockchain technology and distributed systems.
• Deep understanding of various consensus protocols (e.g., Proof-of-Work, Proof-of-Stake, Tendermint).
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in blockchain development (e.g., Go, Rust, C++).
• Experience with cryptography, secure coding practices, and network security principles.
• Proven ability to design and implement complex, large-scale systems.
• Strong communication skills and experience working effectively in a remote, distributed team.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for equity options.
• Fully remote work environment with flexible hours.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and learning resources.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking technology and shape the future of crypto.