Protocol Engineer

Who we are → About Matter Labs

At Matter Labs, we believe freedom drives progress and prosperity. Our mission is to advance freedom for all — through mass adoption of crypto.

To make that real, we’re building ZKsync, a verifiable blockchain network secured by zero‑knowledge proofs. Backed by over $250 million in funding from some of the world’s smartest investors , we move fast, ship often, and judge ourselves by the results we create.

More than 20 teams already run or are building custom ZKsync chains on our network, from crypto leaders like Crypto.com, Abstract, and Lens, to global brands such as Deutsche Bank and Xsolla.

Business Area / Department Overview

The Protocol Engineering team at Matter Labs is responsible for the design, implementation, and evolution of the ZKsync protocol. This includes both L1 and L2 components, from core contracts and verification systems to the zkSync smart contract platform — a zero-knowledge-friendly virtual machine powering ZKsync Era.

Key Responsibilities of Role

• Design and implement the ZKsync smart contract platform (zk-friendly VM).

• Develop system contracts (Solidity, Yul) and server-side components for L1 and L2.

• Conduct independent research, design, prototype, and document solutions.

• Shape the protocol roadmap in collaboration with internal teams and external partners.

• Contribute to cross-functional discussions, ensuring secure and scalable protocol evolution.

Experience, Qualifications & Competencies

• Experience:

  • 3–10 years in protocol, blockchain, or systems engineering depending on level.

  • Hands-on experience with Solidity or Vyper.

• Technical Competencies:

  • Strong understanding of blockchain/EVM protocols.

  • Familiarity with Yul, Cast tools, Foundry etc is a strong plus.

  • Proficiency in strongly typed languages (C++, Scala, Go); Rust experience a plus.

  • Knowledge of Merkle Trees and related data structures.

  • In-depth knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and computational complexity.

  • Experience implementing data structures and algorithms from scratch.

  • Understanding of cryptography, high-load systems, or protocol design a plus.

• Core Competencies:

  • Ownership mindset with proven track record of delivering projects.

  • Strong collaboration and communication skills.

  • Passionate, curious, and motivated to make meaningful contributions.

  • Fluent written and spoken English.

Work model & pay

• Remote‑first: work wherever you’re most effective; optional travel to team or industry events. Ideally East Coast or European time zone.

• Freedom & ownership culture: no time tracking, minimum bureaucracy—only results matter.

For more on how we work, check out our Team Handbook.

Benefits snapshot

• Competitive compensation, equity, and token package

• Premium health, dental, and vision coverage

• 16 weeks paid parental leave

• Flexible paid time off plus company‑wide closure weeks

• $2 000 equipment stipend & $300 monthly co‑working allowance

[See full benefits]