How to Become a Blockchain Developer

The tech industry has many career opportunities in new and exciting fields, including blockchain development. It’s a relatively new career in the tech industry, with roots in the field of software development. Even though it’s new, there are multiple educational pathways for gaining the skills needed to work with blockchain as a professional.

This article will help you learn all about how to become a blockchain developer. It includes details about the qualifications, job requirements, blockchain skills, schools, certifications, and more. You will learn all you need to start a career in this field.

What Is a Blockchain Developer?

A blockchain developer is someone who builds decentralized applications (DApps). The two types of blockchain developers are core blockchain developers and blockchain software developers.

Core blockchain developers are responsible for building the backend of DApps while blockchain software developers are responsible for building the front end of DApps. The front end of DApps consists of the web and mobile interfaces that users interact with. Of these two specializations in blockchain development, blockchain software developers are more common.

Blockchain Developer Job Description

A blockchain developer works to enable secure digital transactions by creating systems to record and store blockchain data in a way that prevents changes or hacks. They design secure blockchain technologies, develop application features and interfaces, and maintain client-side and server-side applications.

A blockchain developer researches, analyzes, designs, and executes blockchain applications using various programming languages to create interfaces, features, and architecture for different purposes. They also set up security measures to protect against cyber attacks, collaborate with engineers and other IT workers on designs, and build up infrastructure.

Blockchain Developer Salary and Job Outlook

According to ZipRecruiter, a blockchain developer makes an average of $154,550 annually, with opportunities for advancement based on location, skill level, and years of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of software developers generally is expected to grow by 22 percent between 2020 to 2030.

This growth estimate is higher than the average projection across all occupations and is due to the increased demand for computer and information technology in the coming years.

Top Reasons to Become a Blockchain Developer in 2021

There are several reasons to become a blockchain developer in 2021, with one of them being the high demand for software developers. Below is a summary of the best reasons.

• Cutting-edge technology. Why is blockchain important? Well, this technology has the potential to change the face of global finance. The worldwide use of blockchain technology will only increase, which simply means the need for more developers will increase as well.
• Job opportunities. There are many job opportunities in the tech industry. This demand is increasing over time. There is no limit to the demand for software developers as long as the technology exists.
• High pay. Blockchain developers are one of the highest-paid professions in tech, with an annual average salary of $154,550 according to ZipRecruiter.
• High demand. There are many job opportunities in software development, including opportunities for blockchain developers. However, the supply is low as there aren’t enough people skilled in the blockchain space to meet the demand for them. If you can learn the required skills, you’ll be in excellent shape.

Blockchain Developer Job Requirements

The minimum education requirement to land a job as a blockchain developer is a bachelor’s degree. You will also be expected to be experienced in the field and have the necessary skills to perform your duties. Some of these skills include excellent programming skills, basic knowledge of blockchain protocols, strong analytical skills, and effective communication skills.

• Bachelor’s degree. You are expected to have a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. If you don’t have a degree, you will need to demonstrate an equivalent skillset.
• Excellent programming skills. A successful blockchain developer is expected to know how to code with the object oriented programming languages commonly used for building blockchain applications. Some blockchain programming languages are C++, Java, and Python.
• Fundamental knowledge of blockchain protocols. Knowing blockchain protocols like Ethereum, Bitcoin, Cardano, and others is essential.
• Strong analytical skills. It is vital to have strong analytical skills as a blockchain developer because you will be required to assess a company's goals, resources, and requirements and apply viable solutions.

Types of Blockchain Developer Careers

There are several blockchain developer job roles. Three of the most common job titles are blockchain engineer, blockchain solution architect, and blockchain project manager.

Blockchain Project Manager

As a blockchain project manager, you'll keep track of and report on resources, oversee security protocols and transaction management systems, design unique features, and deal with issues related to blockchain operations.

Blockchain Quality Engineer

A blockchain quality engineer is in charge of ensuring that the blockchain application is of high quality. As a result, you must be familiar with various blockchain concepts and applications and be updated on the latest blockchain developments and features.

Blockchain Solution Architect

A blockchain solution architect is the blockchain technical lead during a sales process. In this blockchain career, you will collaborate with a sales lead to design a solution, lead a development team, and hand over the solution to customers.

Blockchain Developer Meaning: What Does a Blockchain Developer Do?

There are two types of blockchain developers, the core blockchain developer and the blockchain software developer. A core blockchain developer is a backend developer who designs the security and architecture of the blockchain system. The blockchain software developer, meanwhile, uses the core web architecture to create apps. Below are their main roles.

Designs Blockchain Protocols

A blockchain developer has to design the blockchain protocols that will be used to develop applications.

Designs Network Architecture

A blockchain developer designs the network architecture of a blockchain to enable safe and secure transactions. These architects revolutionize the way companies conduct business.

Develops Smart Contracts

A blockchain developer creates smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts that contain the terms and conditions of a peering agreement.

Essential Blockchain Developer Skills

A blockchain developer has to have certain skills to be able to perform their roles and duties efficiently and be of high value to employers. These skills are a combination of technical and soft skills. In addition to being a strong communicator and having analytical skills, you need to master the following three domains of knowledge.

Smart Contracts

Being able to create a smart contract is an essential skill in blockchain development. A good blockchain developer must be able to develop smart contracts efficiently, in fields as diverse as real estate, healthcare, and democratic elections.

Blockchain Platforms

As a blockchain developer, it is important to have a wide knowledge of the blockchain platforms and know the accurate ones to use. Ethereum, IBM Blockchain, and Hyperledger Fabric are three of the most popular.

Blockchain Security

Blockchain involves a lot of security work, and these security frameworks are constantly evolving. One way to dig into this topic is by learning cryptography, including public keys, private keys, and cryptographic hash functions.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Blockchain Developer?

If you choose to get a bachelor’s degree, it would take you about four years. However, if you decide to learn through other means, such as a coding bootcamp or an online course, it could take you about four to nine months.

A coding bootcamp typically takes about four months and an online course could take about four months. Most of the programs are self-paced, so it could take you more or less time to complete it depending on your schedule. These programs take less time than college degrees.

Can a Coding Bootcamp Help Me Become a Blockchain Developer?

Yes, a coding bootcamp can help you become a blockchain developer if you enroll in the right programs. To learn how to become a blockchain developer through a bootcamp, you will have to enroll in a web development or full stack development program. The best blockchain bootcamps include Hack Reactor, Holberton, and Berkeley Boot Camps.

Bootcamps are a great way to start a career because their specialized programs equip students with the essential skills needed to land high-profile jobs. They also offer career services, which may include resume writing skills, career coaching, interview prep, and personal branding. Some bootcamps also help students find a job after graduation.

Can I Become a Blockchain Developer from Home?

You can become a blockchain developer from home if you enroll in online bootcamps or register for online programs. They are just as effective as in-person programs but may take longer to complete. The popular Space Doggos series from BitDegree, for example, features a free course on Solidity, a programming language used to write smart contracts.

How to Become a Blockchain Developer: A Step-by-Step Guide

There are several ways to become a blockchain developer. Although the following step-by-step guide is just one viable pathway to start this career, you can consider it a complete roadmap.

Step 1: Do Detailed Research

Deciding to be a blockchain developer is easy to do, but before going ahead with it, it is recommended that you do detailed research on blockchain to learn what it entails.

Step 2: Obtain a Degree or the Necessary Qualifications

Once you have decided to become a blockchain developer, you should obtain a degree or pursue alternative learning methods. You could get a college degree, enroll in a bootcamp, or register for an online course.

Step 3: Gain Relevant Experience

Employers value developers who are highly skilled and experienced. It shows that you can be trusted to do your job efficiently. You can look for apprenticeships or internships that can give you relevant on-the-job experience and increase your chances of landing a good job.

Step 4: Build Your Portfolio

It is recommended that you work on building your portfolio while working as an intern or apprentice. This portfolio will show employers your skills and your understanding of advanced concepts when you enter the job market.

Step 5: Apply for Jobs

Once you have gained the necessary experience, acquired the relevant skills, and built an outstanding portfolio, it is now time to begin to navigate the job market. Apply for entry-level roles that fit your skills and experience.

Best Schools and Education for a Blockchain Developer Career

There are multiple ways to learn blockchain from scratch and become a blockchain developer. You could attend a college for a bachelor’s degree, join a bootcamp, or register for online programs. There are plenty of options for you to choose from.

Blockchain Developer Bootcamps

Coding bootcamps are a popular way of learning technology programs including blockchain development. You can enroll in a bootcamp that offers web development, software development, full stack development, or similar programs. These bootcamps specialize in instilling technical skills in students to ensure they can join the job market after completion.

The students also participate in real-world projects that can be added to their portfolios. They offer career services and job guarantees that ensure that the students get a job a few months after graduation. Bootcamps are also an affordable and shorter alternative to colleges. Some bootcamps with blockchain-related content are Udacity and Berkeley Boot Camps.

Vocational School

Vocational schools are a type of postsecondary education that offers hands-on training to students in relevant skills to prepare them for a specific job, trade, or task. They are available to students who would like to join a particular field and want to learn valuable skills.

Vocational schools are different from colleges because they offer training in technical skills while colleges offer academic training. A few schools offer courses in blockchain development to teach you the skills needed to land entry-level roles in the field. Vocational schools last for about two years and you may need to achieve a basic level of competency before enrolling.

Community College

A community college is a form of higher education that offers a two-year curriculum that can lead to an associate degree. Students can also decide to transfer to college for a four-year degree or attend an occupational program. Community colleges do not only focus on academic programs but also on personal growth and development.

Most community colleges do not offer specific blockchain development degrees, but you have the option to pursue an Associate Degree in Software Development and supplement your education with bootcamp training. Community colleges are recommended to students who have poor high school grades or don’t want the commitment of a university.

Blockchain Developer Degrees

There are college degrees that offer blockchain development courses. You could major in computer science, information security, or any other IT-related field. They are typically four-year degrees and teach academic skills for students to practice. These programs will equip you with the knowledge necessary to start a career in the field.

Unlike bootcamps, vocational schools, and community colleges, universities focus more on academic skills than technical skills or hands-on training.

The Most Important Blockchain Developer Certifications

There are several certifications available for blockchain developers. These certifications aren’t mandatory. However, they boost your skills and help you stand out in the job market. They are highly valued by employers and can help you land high-profile jobs.

Certified Blockchain Developer (CBD)

CBD is a complete training program that includes a certification exam and seeks to provide in-depth practical expertise on blockchain technology. It will give you a competitive advantage and employers will have confidence in your ability as a blockchain developer.

The Certified Blockchain Developer - Ethereum (CBDE)

This certification will help you demonstrate your knowledge and skills as a blockchain developer. You will also become a member of Blockchain Leaders and get monthly blockchain industry updates via email and video. To earn this certification, you have to pass a 70-question multiple-choice exam that tests your skills and knowledge of the Ethereum blockchain.

Certified Blockchain Professional (CBP)

This blockchain developer certification from EC-Council tests your knowledge of blockchain fundamentals, applications of blockchain technology, blockchain project implementation, and advanced blockchain development. Earning this certification will help you gain the practical skills needed to work, and focuses on both your knowledge and skills as a blockchain developer.

How to Prepare for Your Blockchain Developer Job Interview

To land a good job as a blockchain developer, you need to be prepared to ace your job interviews. To do that, you need to study all the crucial concepts and build the skills that hiring managers are looking for. Below are some blockchain interview questions you can use to practice for your technical interview.

Blockchain Developer Job Interview Practice Questions

• What is blockchain technology?
• What is the main principle of blockchain technology?
• What are blocks in blockchain technology?
• What are the different types of records present within a blockchain database?
• What is the role of encryption in blockchain?

Should I Become a Blockchain Developer in 2021?

You should become a blockchain developer if you would like to start a career that has high growth potential. Blockchain is a dynamic new technology that is still in its infancy. There is also a high demand for blockchain developers and little competition in the field, which gives you an advantage, especially if you have important certifications, relevant skills, knowledge, and experience.