Principal Software Engineer

Summary

Join Partner Chains, a venture within IOHK, as a Principal Software Engineer to contribute to the development and maintenance of a Rust-based blockchain protocol. You will lead the design and implementation of an innovative cross-chain protocol using advanced cryptographic techniques. This role requires deep expertise in Rust, distributed systems, smart contracts, and blockchain protocols. Responsibilities include leading development, architecting a cross-chain protocol, collaborating with other engineers, optimizing code, mentoring junior engineers, and troubleshooting complex issues. The position offers remote work, laptop reimbursement, a new starter package, learning and development opportunities, and competitive PTO.

Requirements

• 5+ years of blockchain software development experience, with at least 3+ years in Rust and preferred expertise in the Substrate framework
• Understanding of cryptographic techniques, especially Threshold Signature Schemes (TSS), and their application in cross-chain protocols

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of the Partner Chains Substrate node in Rust, ensuring it meets high standards of performance, security, and scalability
• Architect and implement a novel cross-chain protocol, integrating cryptographic techniques such as TSS to enable secure and efficient cross-chain interactions
• Collaborate with engineers, cryptographers, and researchers to design and implement protocol improvements and new features
• Optimize and maintain the existing codebase, ensuring robust and efficient performance of the blockchain node
• Mentor and guide other engineers in best practices for Rust development and blockchain protocol design
• Conduct thorough code reviews, ensuring code quality, security, and be a technical bar raiser
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues in the blockchain protocol, particularly those related to cross-chain interactions and cryptographic implementations
• Contribute to the broader architectural vision of the Partner Chains Tribe, ensuring the protocol aligns with strategic goals

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Ethereum would be a plus, including understanding its architecture, smart contracts, and cross-chain interaction challenges
• Experience in leading technical teams and mentoring engineers in protocol design and development
• A passion for innovation and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in cross-chain interoperability. Special plus if you’ve worked with Cosmos IBC, or worked on bridging implementations in the past

Benefits

• Remote work
• Laptop reimbursement
• New starter package to buy hardware essentials (headphones, monitor, etc)
• Learning & Development opportunities
• Competitive PTO