Senior ZK Cryptographer

RISC Zero

RISC Zero

Posted on Thursday, January 18, 2024

Company Overview:

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. Now, we're ambitiously constructing an entire ecosystem around this groundbreaking technology. We have raised a total of $54 million and announced our $40 million Series A funding round in July 2023.

To ensure effective collaboration and seamless communication across our global team, all candidates must be available to overlap with the Pacific Standard Time (PST) zone for at least 3 hours during regular business hours. This requirement is essential for maintaining efficient workflow, participating in team meetings, and facilitating timely responses to customer inquiries and internal requests.

About the Role:

We are seeking a world class Senior ZK Cryptographer 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.

Qualifications:

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

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

  • A strong mathematical foundation, with the capability to engage with new research topics in mathematics related to cryptography.

  • While not mandatory, knowledge of the Rust programming language would be beneficial.

  • 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.

Ideal Candidate Qualities:

  • 🔒 Authenticity: Demonstrates ethical leadership, honesty, and transparency in all interactions.

  • 💖 Empathy: Shows understanding and concern for the well-being of team members, demonstrating a humane orientation to leadership.

  • 🌟 Resilience: Demonstrates positivity and resilience in the face of challenges, providing inspiration and motivation to the team.

  • 🌱 Growth Mindset: Encourages continuous learning and personal development within the team, focusing on the human dynamic and the unique needs and strengths of all stakeholders.

  • 🎯 Strategic Thinking: Exhibits the ability to think strategically and act decisively, balancing immediate needs with long-term goals.

  • 🌍 Inclusive Leadership: Champions diversity and inclusion, promoting equitable opportunities and treatment for all team members.

  • 🤝 Collaborative: Excels at breaking down silos and creating a "one team, one roadmap" culture. Has a strong ability to facilitate productive relationships across teams.

  • 👷🏾‍♀️ Builder: You’re a Creator and a Doer, you get the vision, create the strategy, and take ownership of building it

What We Offer:

  • Salary: $237,600 - $288,000

  • This role is remote with the ability to travel up to 20% for team ‘onsite’ meetings.

  • We have an Industrious co-working space in Seattle, with the flexibility to rent in other locations.

  • Health insurance: United Healthcare Choice Plus (medical dental, vision, HSA) 85% premium coverage for employees, 75% for dependents.

  • 401k

  • Generous company equity: 6,750 - 10,050 units annually, vesting immediately each month.

  • Paid time off: Unlimited (3-5 weeks is the norm)

  • 11 paid holidays, sick leave, etc.

  • A supportive and collaborative work environment.

  • Leadership Coaching and opportunities for professional growth, learning, and development.

Our Commitment to Inclusion: We are equal opportunity and value diversity. We do not discriminate. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.