Senior Backend Engineer (Rust - Solana)

CoW DAO is dedicated to protecting Ethereum users from MEV (Maximal Extractable Value) and optimizing trade execution across DeFi. This is achieved through the CoW Protocol, CoW Swap (a leading intent-based DEX aggregator), and the MEV Blocker, which collectively secure, aggregate, and route trades for optimal outcomes. CoW DAO also funds values-aligned projects via the CoW Grants Program.

CoW Protocol consistently ranks among the top DEX aggregators by monthly volume and is the largest intent-based exchange. Their MEV Blocker protects trades from harmful MEV extraction and is integrated across the Ethereum ecosystem. The CoW AMM is unique as the only live AMM designed to protect liquidity providers from LVR (loss-versus-rebalancing).

With over 100 open-source repositories on GitHub, CoW DAO emphasizes transparency, community-driven development, and a deep commitment to open-source principles. Their real-time Dune Analytics dashboard highlights billions in cumulative trading volume and a rapidly growing user base. CoW DAO is a leader in DeFi innovation, prioritizing security, efficiency, and decentralization.

Tech Stack includes:

• Backend Code: Rust, Tokio, Cargo, Git
• Infrastructure: Pulumi, AWS, Docker, Kubernetes, Grafana, Prometheus, Elasticsearch
• Other codebases: Typescript, Python, Solidity

Introduction

CoW DAO is seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated Senior Backend Engineer with Solana experience to join their fully remote team. You will be instrumental in building the next generation of decentralized trading protocols on Solana, owning and improving backend services, and contributing to new feature development for CoW Swap on Solana.

Responsibilities

• Architect and develop off-chain services (core auction protocol, orderbook) to support feature growth and evolving needs on Solana.
• Write concurrent backend systems in Rust and interact with Solana smart contracts, deepening your understanding of Solana programs and on-chain mechanics.
• Participate in the on-call rotation to maintain the reliability of production systems (with additional compensation).
• Collaborate closely with researchers and the product team to ship features and solve complex technical problems.
• Deliver high-quality code from concept to production, including monitoring and observability of production systems.
• Provide thoughtful code reviews for colleagues’ contributions to their open-source codebase.

Requirements

• 5+ years of production experience with systems-level programming languages.
• At least 1+ year of hands-on production experience using Rust.
• Practical experience in Solana development (writing/maintaining programs in Rust, using Anchor or equivalent frameworks).
• Strong computer science, programming, and algorithmic skills.
• Experience in architecting, operating, and maintaining complex software systems.
• Commitment to code quality, readability, observability, and testability.
• Proactive in giving technical direction to improve performance, prevent issues, and optimize data usage.
• Team player with excellent communication skills, able to collaborate effectively in a remote-first environment.
• Excited to contribute to CoW Swap on Solana and help shape a cross-chain DeFi protocol.

Nice to Have

• Senior-level experience mentoring colleagues and providing technical direction.

Benefits

• Flexible work environment: Join their hub in Lisbon or work remotely.
• Token plan: Have a stake in their mission and shape the future of CoW DAO.
• Periodic gatherings: Opportunities to connect with the rest of the team through regular trips.
• Conference allocation: Budget to stay up-to-date with ecosystem advancements.
• Learning budget: Support for higher ambitions and professional development.
• Hardware budget: For acquiring necessary equipment.
• Make a significant impact in a startup environment.
• Flat hierarchies with fewer processes and bureaucracy.
• Flexible work and vacation times for work-life balance.
• Opportunities for individual growth.

About Company

CoW DAO is dedicated to protecting Ethereum users from MEV (Maximal Extractable Value) and optimizing trade execution across DeFi. This is achieved through the CoW Protocol, CoW Swap (a leading intent-based DEX aggregator), and the MEV Blocker, which collectively secure, aggregate, and route trades for optimal outcomes. CoW DAO also funds values-aligned projects via the CoW Grants Program.

CoW Protocol consistently ranks among the top DEX aggregators by monthly volume and is the largest intent-based exchange. Their MEV Blocker protects trades from harmful MEV extraction and is integrated across the Ethereum ecosystem. The CoW AMM is unique as the only live AMM designed to protect liquidity providers from LVR (loss-versus-rebalancing).

With over 100 open-source repositories on GitHub, CoW DAO emphasizes transparency, community-driven development, and a deep commitment to open-source principles. Their real-time Dune Analytics dashboard highlights billions in cumulative trading volume and a rapidly growing user base. CoW DAO is a leader in DeFi innovation, prioritizing security, efficiency, and decentralization.

Tech Stack includes:

• Backend Code: Rust, Tokio, Cargo, Git
• Infrastructure: Pulumi, AWS, Docker, Kubernetes, Grafana, Prometheus, Elasticsearch
• Other codebases: Typescript, Python, Solidity

How to Apply

Apply directly via the provided application link.