Application Guide

How to Apply for Core Team Member, Ethereum for Public Infrastructure & Commons

at Ethereum Foundation

🏢 About Ethereum Foundation

The Ethereum Foundation is a global non-profit that supports the Ethereum ecosystem and promotes its use for public good. It's unique because it operates as a steward rather than a corporate entity, funding critical projects and advocating for decentralized technologies. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven organization at the forefront of Web3, with a collaborative and remote-first culture.

About This Role

This role is central to EPIC (Ethereum for Public Infrastructure and Commons), which engages with governments, NGOs, and multilateral institutions to adopt Ethereum for public infrastructure. You'll shape strategy, build partnerships, and drive initiatives that align with Ethereum's values of censorship resistance, open source, privacy, and security. It's a high-impact position that directly influences how decentralized tech serves the public good.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with government officials or NGO partners to discuss pilot projects, followed by internal strategy sessions with the EPIC team. You might also review technical proposals or write thought leadership pieces to advocate for Ethereum's role in public infrastructure. Evenings could include webinars or community calls with ecosystem developers to align on shared goals.

🎯 Who Ethereum Foundation Is Looking For

  • Proven experience in strategy and execution within the blockchain or Web3 space, particularly with public sector or NGO engagement.
  • Deep understanding of Ethereum's technology and its potential for public infrastructure, with the ability to articulate this to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Strong network and credibility in the ecosystem, with experience working with governments, multilateral institutions, or civil society.
  • Leadership potential, with the ability to drive initiatives independently and collaborate closely with senior leadership, including the President of the Board.

📝 Tips for Applying to Ethereum Foundation

1

Highlight specific examples of your work with public institutions or on digital public goods, showing measurable impact.

2

Demonstrate your understanding of Ethereum's core values (CROPS) and how you've applied them in past projects.

3

Showcase your ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences, perhaps with writing samples or presentations.

4

Mention any experience with Ethereum ecosystem governance or community initiatives, as this shows alignment with EF's collaborative approach.

5

Tailor your resume to emphasize strategic planning and execution over purely technical skills, since this is a leadership-oriented role.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for using Ethereum for public good and your alignment with the EF's mandate.", "Specific examples of how you've engaged with governments or NGOs in the blockchain space.", "Your vision for EPIC's future and how you can contribute to its growth and impact.", 'Your ability to work remotely and collaborate across time zones, as the team is global.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Familiarize yourself with the Ethereum Foundation's mandate and recent initiatives, especially EPIC-related projects.
  • Read about Ethereum's role in digital public goods, such as quadratic funding, DAOs, and decentralized identity.
  • Research the EF's leadership team and their public statements to understand their strategic priorities.
  • Look into case studies of blockchain adoption in government or public infrastructure, such as in Estonia or at the UN.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach a conversation with a government official skeptical of decentralized technology?
2 Describe a time you managed a complex project with multiple stakeholders. What was your strategy?
3 How do you stay informed about Ethereum's technical developments, and how would you apply them to public infrastructure?
4 What are the biggest challenges for adoption of Ethereum in the public sector, and how would you address them?
5 How do you balance the need for decentralization with the practical requirements of government partnerships?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid focusing solely on cryptocurrency price or investment potential; this role is about public good.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of soft skills like diplomacy and negotiation, as you'll be dealing with diverse stakeholders.
  • Avoid a one-size-fits-all cover letter; make sure to reference specific aspects of the EF's work and this role.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Ethereum Foundation!