ASIC Lead Careers at Block - Bay Area, CA | Apply Now!

Join Block's Proto team as ASIC Lead and lead the development of next-generation Bitcoin mining silicon. This senior leadership role offers the chance to build the world's best mining ASIC team while driving Block's mission to decentralize Bitcoin mining and create innovative use cases. Located in the heart of the Bay Area, California, this position combines technical excellence with strategic leadership in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency hardware space.

Role Overview

Block's Proto initiative is transforming Bitcoin mining through open-source hardware and software solutions. As ASIC Lead, you'll spearhead the custom silicon development that powers both Proto's mining rigs and customer-developed mining systems. This role is pivotal to achieving industry-leading power efficiency, hashrate performance, and system reliability that directly impact mining profitability.

The ASIC team at Proto focuses on developing custom silicon optimized for Bitcoin's SHA-256 algorithm. Your leadership will ensure delivery of ASICs that excel in three critical metrics: power efficiency (J/TH), area efficiency (TH/mm²), and system uptime. These factors determine economic viability for mining operations of all scales—from individual miners to large-scale data centers.

Reporting to Proto's hardware leadership, you'll build and scale a world-class silicon team while collaborating cross-functionally with systems engineering, operations, and product teams. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll roll up your sleeves alongside your team to deliver tapeouts on aggressive timelines.

Key Responsibilities

The ASIC Lead role demands comprehensive ownership of the silicon development lifecycle. Your responsibilities include:

• Recruiting, mentoring, and developing top-tier ASIC engineers to build the industry's premier mining silicon team
• Defining ASIC architecture specifications optimized for Bitcoin mining performance metrics
• Leading RTL design, synthesis, place & route, timing closure, and physical verification flows
• Driving innovation in power optimization techniques specific to high-hashrate mining workloads
• Collaborating with systems architects to co-optimize chip and board-level performance
• Managing multi-site tapeout schedules across global foundry and OSAT partners
• Establishing strategic partnerships with EDA vendors, IP providers, and manufacturing services
• Implementing robust design verification methodologies including formal verification and emulation
• Overseeing post-silicon validation, characterization, and production ramp activities
• Presenting technical roadmaps and progress to executive leadership and board members
• Fostering a culture of technical excellence, urgency, and innovation within the team
• Staying ahead of industry trends in mining ASIC technology and advanced nodes
• Contributing to open-source mining hardware initiatives per Proto's development philosophy

Qualifications

We're seeking candidates with exceptional technical depth and proven leadership in custom silicon development:

• 15+ years of progressive responsibility in ASIC development from architecture to production
• Track record shipping high-volume custom ASICs in advanced nodes (3nm and below preferred)
• Experience leading engineering teams of 20+ across multiple geographies and time zones
• Deep expertise in Bitcoin mining ASICs or high-performance compute silicon
• Proven success in small company/startup environments with resource constraints
• Strong vendor management experience with TSMC, GlobalFoundries, Synopsys, Cadence, etc.
• Hands-on experience with modern EDA flows and physical design methodologies
• Demonstrated ability to deliver power/area/performance breakthroughs vs. industry standards
• Excellent communication skills for technical and executive audiences
• Passion for Bitcoin, decentralization, and open-source hardware development

Salary & Benefits

The compensation package for this ASIC Lead position is highly competitive for Bay Area senior technical leadership roles. Total compensation includes base salary, annual performance bonus, and significant equity grant reflecting the strategic importance of this role to Proto's success.

Block offers comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision coverage, 401(k) matching, unlimited PTO, parental leave, professional development stipend, and employee stock purchase plan. The company provides relocation assistance for exceptional candidates and maintains a fully-stocked work environment with meals and wellness programs.

Why Join Block?

Block represents the rare combination of mission-driven purpose and technical excellence. Proto's work decentralizes Bitcoin mining, making it accessible to individuals worldwide while creating new economic opportunities. As ASIC Lead, you'll:

• Work on genuinely impactful technology that shapes Bitcoin's future
• Build from the ground up in a well-funded, early-stage initiative
• Collaborate with world-class engineers across Block's product portfolio
• Enjoy autonomy and impact uncommon in larger organizations
• Contribute to open-source projects with global developer communities
• Participate in Block's inclusive culture focused on economic empowerment

Bay Area location provides access to unparalleled engineering talent, advanced semiconductor ecosystem, and vibrant crypto community. Block's commitment to open development means your work will influence industry standards and attract top collaborators worldwide.

How to Apply

Ready to lead the future of Bitcoin mining silicon? Submit your application including:

• Current resume highlighting ASIC leadership achievements
• LinkedIn profile and GitHub (if applicable)
• Cover letter explaining your passion for Bitcoin mining hardware
• References from recent silicon tapeouts and team leadership

Block is committed to building diverse teams. We encourage applications from candidates with non-traditional backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional capability. No agencies or recruiters please—direct applications only.

This job posting was last updated December 2024. Block is an equal opportunity employer.