What Is a Blockchain Developer (and How Do I Become One)

Blockchain developers create and maintain decentralized, distributed ledgers that can process things like cryptocurrency transactions. 

• The median total salary for blockchain developers in the United States is $136,000 per year [1]

• Becoming a blockchain developer includes gaining an understanding of blockchain fundamentals, and learning learning essential skills in coding, blockchain programming, cryptography, data structures, smart contracts, and blockchain architecture.

• You can earn a bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology to prepare for a role in Blockchain development

Explore blockchain technology, development career paths, job requirements, and FAQs. Looking to learn the fundamentals of blockchain technology to prepare for a career transition? You can learn how it works and how to apply use cases within your industry in as little as two months with the Wealth Circle Crypto Courses | Join the Wealth Circle

What is a blockchain?

A blockchain is a type of database used to store and organize information. Traditional databases arrange information into rows and columns that make up tables, making it easy for computers to recognize. With blockchains, however, information is digitally formatted and collected into clusters or blocks. Each block has a limited storage capacity.

Once the blocks reach that capacity, they close and link to the preceding block via cryptography, creating a chain. Cryptography creates an unchangeable timestamp when one block links to another. This permanent record verifies the accuracy of sensitive information like transactions. Traditional databases, on the other hand, are typically controlled by a central authority, with sensitive data managed and maintained by an organization or administrator.

What is blockchain development?

Blockchain development refers to building, maintaining, and designing blockchain applications and systems. Overall, it seeks to use blockchain technology's unique features to solve problems and create opportunities. One example of innovative blockchain development is the smart contract. Smart contracts are agreements between two parties, just like regular contracts.

Unlike ordinary contracts, however, smart contracts are also programs stored on a blockchain. These programs trigger only when both parties meet the agreed-upon terms and conditions. This automated compliance ensures the correct execution of a contract in real-time. Comparing smart contracts to parking meters is a great way to conceptualize their utility. You insert the correct payment and receive the parking validation corresponding to that payment, with no need for third-party involvement like a cashier, because of the fixed agreement.

What does a blockchain developer do?

A blockchain developer is a software developer who focuses on blockchain technology as they program, develop, and test software and systems. Consider the two primary types of blockchain developers:

1. Core blockchain developer: Core blockchain developers develop and maintain the architecture of blockchain systems. In this role, you design protocols, develop security patterns, and supervise the network as a whole.

2. Blockchain software developer: Blockchain software developers build applications on existing blockchain platforms. As a blockchain software developer, you handle front-end and back-end development, design, and maintenance.