Head of Protocol Engineering
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Key skills for this role
About the Role
Mintlayer is looking for a Head of Protocol Engineering to lead the development of its Bitcoin programmable layer, including ZK Thunder, DEX, Fast Bridge, and Token Factory. You will own the technical roadmap, lead architecture decisions across the full protocol stack, and build/manage the engineering team.
Key Skills for This Role
Responsibilities
- Own the Mintlayer technical roadmap: ZK Thunder, DEX, Fast Bridge, Token Factory, and core protocol development aligned to quarterly milestones
- Lead architecture decisions across the full protocol stack: consensus layer, UTXO smart contract execution, ZK proof integration, and cross chain bridge design
- Build and manage the engineering team: hiring, leveling, performance management, and culture
- Establish and enforce engineering standards: code review, security gates, testing frameworks, and deployment protocols
- Coordinate with the Blockchain Security Lead on audit timing, vulnerability response, and secure development practices
- Interface with the Head of AI and Head of Tokenization on ZK Thunder capabilities and Token Factory product requirements
- Represent protocol engineering externally: developer documentation and technical conference presentations
Requirements
- 10+ years software engineering, 3+ years in an engineering leadership role
- Distributed systems and blockchain protocol experience required
- Rust proficiency or deep C++ background with genuine willingness to own the Rust codebase
- Proven track record shipping production grade protocol infrastructure
Full Job Posting
About The Role
- Bitcoin is finally getting the programmable layer it deserves — and Mintlayer is building it. A production protocol using UTXO based smart contract execution with MLS token standards, live on mainnet. ZK Thunder launches Q1 2026. The DEX, Fast Bridge, and Token Factory follow through the year. This
- The engineering team works on problems that do not have solved answers. UTXO based programmable finance at institutional scale, ZK proof integration, and Bitcoin atomic swap infrastructure are the kind of challenges that define careers. The architecture decisions made here will shape a financial sys
What You Will Own
- Own the Mintlayer technical roadmap: ZK Thunder, DEX, Fast Bridge, Token Factory, and core protocol development aligned to quarterly milestones
- Lead architecture decisions across the full protocol stack: consensus layer, UTXO smart contract execution, ZK proof integration, and cross chain bridge design
- Build and manage the engineering team: hiring, leveling, performance management, and culture
- Establish and enforce engineering standards: code review, security gates, testing frameworks, and deployment protocols
- Coordinate with the Blockchain Security Lead on audit timing, vulnerability response, and secure development practices
- Interface with the Head of AI and Head of Tokenization on ZK Thunder capabilities and Token Factory product requirements
- Represent protocol engineering externally: developer documentation and technical conference presentations
What You Bring
- 10+ years software engineering, 3+ years in an engineering leadership role
- Distributed systems and blockchain protocol experience required
- Rust proficiency or deep C++ background with genuine willingness to own the Rust codebase
- Proven track record shipping production grade protocol infrastructure
Benefits
- Health & Prevention: Comprehensive, high tier medical insurance with a focus on preventative medicine, annual executive health screenings, and diagnostic check ups.
- Fitness & Wellness Programs: Monthly fitness allowances for premier gyms and studios, plus internal wellness initiatives including yoga, ergonomics workshops, and stress management.
- Competitive Compensation: Salary paid in your choice of fiat, Bitcoin, or stablecoins. ML token allocation and vesting for senior roles.
- Relocation Support: Full assistance with UAE residency visas and relocation to Abu Dhabi for on site roles. We handle the paperwork.
- Flexible Working: Structured flexibility across on site, hybrid, and fully remote roles. Core overlap hours respected across time zones.
- Global Team Meetups: Periodic gatherings with the full team around the world. The remote team is never remote from the culture.
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