Senior Cryptography Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Health benefits

Hybrid work model

Conference funding

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Cryptography Engineer for its Randburg R&D team. You will design, implement, and analyze cryptographic primitives and protocols that underpin secure blockchain-based systems, combining theory with practical applications.

Ideal candidates hold a PhD or MSc in a cryptography-related field, have hands-on experience with OpenSSL/libsodium, and are proficient in C++, Python, or Rust. You will mentor juniors and contribute to cutting-edge research with global impact.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc with cryptography specialization.
• Proven applied cryptography experience including zero-knowledge proofs.
• Strong programming skills in C++, Python, or Rust.
• Experience with cryptographic libraries like OpenSSL or libsodium.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement advanced cryptographic algorithms.
• Analyze the security of existing implementations and propose improvements.
• Develop secure cryptographic libraries for blockchain applications.
• Collaborate with hardware and software engineers to integrate cryptographic solutions.
• Conduct formal security proofs and analyze cryptographic schemes.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed conferences and journals where appropriate.
• Ensure that all cryptographic implementations adhere to rigorous security standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the team's technical expertise.

Skills

Applied cryptography

Problem solving

Research

Collaboration

Education

PhD or MSc in Cryptography

Tools

OpenSSL

libsodium

C++ programming

Python programming

Rust programming

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm at the intersection of cryptography and blockchain, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Cryptography Engineer to join their research and development team. This role, situated in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA, is crucial for advancing our understanding and application of cryptographic techniques within the crypto & blockchain space. You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and analyzing cryptographic primitives and protocols that underpin our secure systems. We are looking for an individual with a profound theoretical background and practical experience in applied cryptography, with a passion for its use in decentralized technologies. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and development in a rapidly evolving field.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement advanced cryptographic algorithms and protocols.
• Analyze the security of existing cryptographic implementations and propose improvements.
• Develop secure cryptographic libraries and tools for blockchain applications.
• Collaborate with hardware and software engineers to integrate cryptographic solutions.
• Conduct formal security proofs and analyze the security properties of cryptographic schemes.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in cryptography, cryptanalysis, and blockchain security.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the team's technical expertise.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed conferences and journals where appropriate.
• Ensure that all cryptographic implementations adhere to rigorous security standards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field with a specialization in Cryptography.
• Proven experience in applied cryptography, including symmetric and asymmetric encryption, hashing, digital signatures, and zero-knowledge proofs.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as C++, Python, or Rust.
• Experience with cryptographic libraries (e.g., OpenSSL, libsodium).
• Understanding of blockchain technology and its reliance on cryptographic principles.
• Familiarity with formal verification methods and security analysis tools.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities.
• Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to a research team.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, substantial stock options, and comprehensive health and wellness benefits. The role is based in our state-of-the-art R&D center in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA, with flexible working hours and a hybrid work model. We provide extensive opportunities for professional growth, including funding for conferences, research, and publications. Enjoy generous annual leave, a matching retirement plan, and the chance to work on intellectually stimulating and impactful projects in the heart of cryptographic innovation.