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Lead Engineer, Cryptography Engineer - Blockchain Specialist
Career Insights for Blockchain Developer / Engineer
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Based on Virginia data
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What they do
A Blockchain Developer or Engineer maintains and supports distributed and decentralized blockchain-based networks or blockchain applications such as cryptocurrency exchange, payment processing, document sharing, and digital voting. Designs and deploys secure blockchain design patterns and solutions over geographically distributed networks using advanced technologies. May assist with infrastructure setup and testing for application transparency and security.
$126,998 / year median in Virginia
+9% projected growth
Job Description
Department Summary:
The Cryptography, ICAM and System Assurance department is comprised of an inspired multi-disciplinary team of researchers and practitioners driving innovation in the department's technical areas of focus, with particular emphasis in Cryptography and Trust; Software Assurance (SWA); Identity, Credential and Access Management (ICAM); and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (AI). We develop and apply scalable approaches for systems and software, evaluate technology and solutions, lead and foster external partnerships within the communities we support, and conduct novel research and development. We serve in critical roles including: Aiding the Federal Government as a community in architecting and applying modern cryptography and PQC technologies to secure systems, software, and protocols. Developing strategies, assessing policy and technical constraints, and facilitating the deployment of cryptography solutions into cloud, hybrid, and on-premises infrastructures for enterprise and tactical environments. As senior trusted advisors and leaders within the cryptography and PQC community internally and external to MITRE, we apply our knowledge of industry trends, advances in commercial technology, and relevant industry standards and protocols to inform our sponsors' decision-making. Performing research and development, evaluation and testing and operational support for high-priority sponsor mission applications, MITRE Labs strategic initiatives, and MITRE's internal research and development program.Roles & Responsibilities:
Lead projects and R D functions that are focused on cryptographic foundations as they apply to blockchain, understanding on distributed ledger technology, digital assets, cryptocurrency, and Web3 ecosystems Understand and analyze DeFi, DAOs/Governance, smart contracts and other tokenized or digital asset concepts Lead efforts to determine vulnerabilities, threats, and risks that may compromise digital asset ecosystems Develop actionable frameworks and plans to safeguard digital asset ecosystems Serving as digital assets subject matter expert leading trainings and educational sessions for internal teams and sponsorsBasic Qualifications:
8+ years of work experience with a Bachelor's Degree, 5 years of work experience with a Masters, or at least 3 years of work experience with a PhD Demonstrated experience, knowledge and passion in topics that include Zero Knowledge cryptography, threshold cryptography, and post quantum cryptography Experience in cybersecurity applied to cryptocurrencies and digital assets (e.g. key management concepts, understanding of KYC, on-chain analysis, and consensus protocols) Demonstrable technical program or technical project management experience. Strong analytical/problem-solving skills and sound technical judgment. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to deliver results and collaborate across teams. Ability to work effectively in secure/classified environments. Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S Government issued Security Clearance. This position requires a minimum of 3 days a week on-site.Preferred Qualifications:
Degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical/Computer Engineering, Mathematics or related field. Broad exposure to cryptography and applied methods Knowledge on Internet and network engineering Experience applying cryptographic standards and guidelines in real-world deployed systems TS eligibility preferred. This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s): None This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s): None Salary compensation range and midpoint: $158,800 - $198,500 - $238,200Annual Work Location Type:
Onsite It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law. MITRE intends to maintain a website that is fully accessible to all individuals. If you are unable to search or apply for jobs and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of MITRE's employment process, please email for general support and for intern positions. This service is for individuals requiring reasonable accommodation requests. Please note that vendor solicitations will not receive a reply. Benefits information may be found here. Copyright 1997-2026, The MITRE Corporation. All rights reserved. MITRE is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation. Material on this site may be copied and distributed with permission only.Benefits
- Dental Insurance