Introduction to IPC

Interplanetary Consensus (IPC) is a groundbreaking Protocol Labs spinoff focused on solving the fundamental challenges of blockchain scaling and interoperability. We're developing a revolutionary framework for recursive subnets—both long and short-lived—that enables horizontal scaling of decentralized consensus systems. IPC allows developers to spawn customized blockchain networks on-demand with configurable consensus mechanisms, creating hierarchical structures of interconnected chains that can scale recursively.

Our mission is to achieve Web2-level scaling performance while maintaining the security and decentralization guarantees of blockchain technology. Through recursive subnets and seamless cross-chain interoperability, IPC is building the infrastructure layer that will finally allow decentralized applications to scale to billions of users—from high-throughput DeFi to complex multi-chain architectures that rival traditional web infrastructure.

The Opportunity

We're seeking an exceptional Technical Lead to join our small, high-impact team of 3 engineers. This role combines deep technical expertise with strategic thinking and team leadership. You'll be at the forefront of blockchain innovation, working on features like recursive subnets, configurable consensus mechanisms, Wasm runtime actors, and advanced bridging and cross-chain interoperability solutions.

As a core member of a lean team, your contributions will directly shape the future of blockchain scalability and interoperability.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and translate complex product requirements into comprehensive technical specifications for recursive subnet architectures, configurable consensus mechanisms, Wasm runtime actors, and cross-chain bridging protocols
• Create detailed protocol designs and implementation roadmaps, prototyping complex features to accelerate team productivity
• Organize work as a technical program manager, transforming complex designs into approachable, iterative work plans
• Ensure all features meet security, robustness, and quality standards with comprehensive documentation
• Engage directly with adopters to evaluate network requirements and troubleshoot complex technical issues
• Lead and mentor our engineering team as a respected technical authority
• Serve as a thought leader through conference talks, blog posts, and open community engagement

Requirements

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in Rust and Solidity (required)
• Substantial expertise in distributed systems and blockchain client architecture
• Deep understanding of consensus mechanisms and L2 scaling solutions
• Proven track record in open source development with excellent collaboration skills
• Ability to lead small engineering teams and drive technical decision-making
• Strong communication skills for translating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences

Preferred Experience

• Cross-chain communication protocols and bridging systems
• Wasm runtime environments and actor model systems
• Previous experience at Protocol Labs or within the Filecoin/IPFS ecosystem

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity compensation
• Fully remote position with flexible work arrangements
• Work directly on cutting-edge recursive scaling and interoperability challenges
• Small, high-impact team where your contributions directly shape the product
• Opportunity to define technical standards for the next generation of blockchain scaling
• Collaborative culture working alongside talented engineers passionate about decentralized systems
• Direct engagement with the open-source community and thought leadership opportunities

Join Us

This is a unique opportunity to join a pioneering team that's solving the core challenges of blockchain scalability through recursive architectures. As part of our small but mighty team, you'll have outsized impact on bringing Web2-level performance to Web3.

If you're passionate about distributed systems, excited by recursive scaling challenges, and ready to lead the next generation of blockchain infrastructure, we want to hear from you.

IPC is building the foundation for a truly scalable, interoperable blockchain future. Come help us make it a reality.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

IPC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our technology and our culture.