How to Become a Blockchain Developer With no Experience

Introduction

Undoubtedly, blockchain development is one of the industries for developers that is expanding the fastest. According to a new job search marketplace Hired report, demand for blockchain developers has increased by approximately 517 percent in the last year, and the best part for developers is that it’s extremely understaffed; there are a lot of companies that need blockchain developers, but there aren’t enough of them.

You want to know how to become a blockchain developer, whether you’re just getting started or you’re a developer already and want to switch to the blockchain.

Why? It might be among the highest-paying tech skills presently. It is also a fantastic method for earning Bitcoin. According to Glassdoor, the average salary in the US is over $100,000.

This blog covers everything, so you will be clear about blockchain development after reading it. We will see a simple step-by-step guide for blockchain development. We’ll discuss everything, including the best resources, the investment of time, and whether or not you should take action. We’ll also talk about the tools you’ll need to master and how to do so.

What is a blockchain?

Let’s quickly review blockchain before talking about blockchain development. A blockchain is simply a chain of blocks. So, what does a block have? A block contains data, which indicates that the blockchain is a database. Like the sequel database and the MongoDB database, blockchain is a database, but the data within it is stored in your node/system and a peer-to-peer network.

This means that everyone with a node or machine in this network has a complete copy of this database, so whenever new data is entered into it, it is connected to the entire node and distributed to all nodes. So, if someone wants to change something in this database, they will have to hack all of the computers in that node to change a single one, which is an impossible task; that is why we say your data is unhackable and immutable.

What Is Blockchain Development?

The process of creating, maintaining, and designing blockchain systems and applications is known as blockchain development. In general, it seeks to use the distinctive qualities of blockchain technology to address issues and open up opportunities.

A program or platform that uses a blockchain’s features and advantages, like security, transparency, and dependability, is known as a blockchain application. Blockchain development is a difficult process requiring a thorough understanding of the technology. It also needs a strong dedication to scalability and security. Developing a blockchain platform takes a lot of time, funds, and expertise.

what do blockchain developers do?

A blockchain developer is a type of software developer who works primarily in blockchain technology. Developers scheme, create and check software and systems. The two main categories of blockchain developers are:

• Core Blockchain Developer:

Developers who create blockchain clients are known as core developers. They create and keep up the blockchain systems’ architecture. They develop protocols and security patterns while also maintaining the network as a whole.

Now, What are clients in a blockchain, exactly? Numerous blockchain clients are available, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and others. Hundreds of blockchain clients are available. Those who work on these blockchain clients, protocols, proof of work, and tax technology, basically have their core coding in multiple languages such as C++, Golang, Rust, and so on. Therefore, core blockchain developer create blockchain clients and work on their protocols.

• Blockchain Software Developers:

They create blockchain applications utilizing already existing blockchain platforms. They are in charge of these applications’ creation, proper maintenance, and problem resolution.

Their responsibility is to create a Decentralized Application on the existing blockchain. This application is not hosted on a central server but is decentralized, meaning it has access to every node. Therefore, when we mention that a company needs some blockchain developers, we typically refer to these developers.

Companies are looking for blockchain application developers. In light of this, 90% of developers work on blockchain applications.

Responsibilities and Role of Blockchain Developer

• Construct the Blockchain protocols
• Create a network infrastructure that can be used to centralize or decentralize the data.
• Implementing the Blockchain protocols for backend development
• Creating front-end designs per client demands
• Create and maintain records of any smart contracts

Why should you become a blockchain developer?

Multiple small and big companies, including Microsoft, Accenture, the World Bank, Cognizant, and Tech Mahindra, require blockchain developers. Amazon, as well as banking firms such as Morgan Stanley and service sector companies, use blockchain.

These companies also pay extremely well. For instance, a normal developer unaware of blockchain and a developer aware of blockchain will not be paid equally. Sometimes, a blockchain developer earns twice or three times as much as a regular developer and receives more benefits.

It is because demand exceeds supply, as many companies these days require blockchain developers, but only some people have knowledge of blockchain developers.

Apart from jobs, blockchain development offers numerous opportunities to earn passive income. There are numerous ways to generate passive income, including trading bots and DeFi, similar to Flash Loans.

How to Make a Successful and Worthwhile Career as a Blockchain Developer?

Since the technology is still relatively new, no one could proclaim to be an expert in any required blockchain developer skills. We will discuss the top skill sets a Blockchain Developer needs.

Blockchain Architecture 

A blockchain developer must have a solid understanding of the technology’s architecture and operation. It would be beneficial if you had experience with blockchain technology in the real world and knowledge of concepts like consensus, distributed ledger technology, and cryptographic hash functions.

Cryptography

To use cryptocurrency, you’ll need a wallet and the password to that wallet. Cryptography is unquestionably necessary for blockchain technology to operate properly. You’d be better off if you familiarized yourself with the skills and knowledge necessary for blockchain developers. The required blockchain engineer skills will allow you to protect your blockchain data.

Data Structures

You need to be familiar with data structures to build blockchains. Primarily because blockchain network designers and implementers frequently work with different types of data formats. Since even one block on the blockchain is more than just a data structure within itself, data structures make up the entire blockchain network.

Smart Contracts

The most widely used application in 2023 and beyond will be smart contracts. Be aware that each blockchain intends to implement smart contract functions and features into its system so that required information can be placed on the blockchain layer. Therefore, developers interested in working in the blockchain sector should thoroughly research the creation of smart contracts, their importance, and the technical requirements for blockchain developers.

Smart contracts are the different kinds of code written in the blockchain.

Blockchain application developers produce blockchain-based applications. They create decentralized applications, and their code is written in smart contracts.

Your blockchain, which is a decentralized network, hosts those smart contracts. And the code you write is in a language called Solidity. This Solidity language is similar to JavaScript but differs in some ways. 

Solid Grasp of Cryptography and Security Principles 

Cryptographic techniques can be used to protect the information, making it difficult for both the sender and the recipient of the data—or any unauthorized third party—to tamper with the data being transmitted between the two parties. Therefore, as technology advances, an increasing number of businesses will require engineers with a strong understanding of encryption and security concepts and expertise in blockchain technology.

Experience With Distributed Systems

Blockchain technology is a decentralized system, meaning any particular entity does not govern it. So developing blockchain applications necessitates a solid understanding of distributed systems and peer-to-peer networking. Because the system is decentralized, there is no centralization or single point of failure. Designing blockchain applications would be easier if you were familiar with the knowledge and skills required for blockchain technology.

 Understand Standards and Eco-systems 

To build an effective blockchain system, optimize your business requirements, and significantly influence developments, understand blockchain technical skills and practices and how to implement them in your company’s environment.

What programming languages do you need to know?

Not all programming languages are necessary for you to know. But most of the time, apps are created in many different languages, each with a particular purpose. The following is a list of programming languages for blockchain applications, along with explanations for why you might need to learn them all.

Solidity

Solidity is an object-oriented programming language for creating decentralized applications and smart contracts on a blockchain platform. Vitalik Buterin, the creator of Ethereum, created it. You need to be able to speak and write in this new type of language to be a successful blockchain developer.

C++

C++ ranks among the top five programming languages of all time. It improved to more significant developments, such as the invention of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. C++ was utilized in the coding of the EOS blockchain.

You can program in other industries if you learn C++ because it gives you a wide variety of expertise. It is versatile, encourages innovation and creativity, and offers many opportunities for future career growth.

Java

Java has played a significant role in many businesses, supporting the development of the internet and blockchain technologies. It is an important language for developers because it allows you to create and run your program on almost any computer. It provides flexibility, allowing you to complete your project without restrictions.

Java is a highly portable language of programming used by many blockchain projects, including Ethereum, NEO, IOTA, and Hyperledger Fabric.

Python

Python is quickly emerging as a critical component across numerous industries. IoT technology is becoming increasingly popular, Python is more widely used for web development, and creating apps is now simpler than ever.

Pytorch is a simple machine learning algorithms language that recently gained popularity. Learning the fundamentals takes about an hour, and after just one try, you’ll recognize where Pytorch can assist you with your work.

Simplicity

Simplicity is a new language many people need to know. No matter their skill level, from complete beginner to expert, developers of all levels can easily create and read smart contracts using this system.

Cryptography

The blockchain is based on cryptography. In almost every process, different levels of encryption keys are used.

There’s no need for you to be an expert in cryptography. You should, however, understand the fundamental principles of cryptography as well as the principles of algorithms. They consist of hashing operations and block ciphers. To learn more about these two algorithms, you should look for an accessible source.

Cryptonomics

To develop blockchain projects, you must have a solid understanding of the socioeconomic mechanisms and driving forces behind cryptocurrencies. You should know how cryptocurrencies differ from traditional currencies and the initial motivations behind their creation.

You should also become more knowledgeable about decentralized applications (dApps) and how they produce such revolutionary effects. Other topics include game theory, currency valuation, and monetary policy on various chains.

How can you learn the skills required to become a blockchain developer?

Blockchain is a relatively new technology in the field of information technology. Although it is still in the early stages of development, it has great potential in various industries.

How long might it take you to learn it? To become a skilled blockchain developer, you must dedicate three to six months. You would need to learn a variety of skills.

But if you already have some web development knowledge, it will take you three months. And if you have yet to gain experience with web development, you may need six months, depending on the amount of time you devote to it.

This is where it’s important to acquire the knowledge needed to work as a blockchain developer. This skill set won’t become commonplace soon because it must first be learned. Therefore, employment opportunities for people with these skill sets will be limited in companies adopting blockchain technology once more people learn these skills.

Even though learning new skills before they become widespread is only sometimes possible, there are still some ways to start ahead of the curve. Before they start working and find positions where they can use their coding knowledge, many people begin practicing coding programming languages like Python or Ruby while still studying in college.

What are the top online websites for learning blockchain coding?

There are numerous excellent online resources for learning how to code for blockchain. You can build your decentralized application and be paid if it is successful.

• Videos by WeAreDevelopers: To access hundreds of programming videos, talks, and training courses on various topics, including blockchain, sign up for a free account at WeAreDevelopers.

• IBM Blockchain education: Free learning materials from a major tech company

• CodeAcademy: Python blockchain tutorials at CodeAcadem

• Blockchain Council: Blockchain Certifications

• edX: free online courses from prestigious universities

There are many places besides the internet where you can find interesting content. Consider following cryptocurrency influencers and channels on Twitter, YouTube, and other social media platforms for your knowledge base.

How long does it take to become a Blockchain Developer

The time it takes to become a blockchain developer can vary depending on your background and how much time you devote to learning, but generally it can take 6 months to 2 years.

If you are starting from scratch with no programming experience, it will take closer to 2 years of full-time, intensive study to develop the necessary skills. You’ll need to learn programming fundamentals, data structures and algorithms, and core languages like JavaScript, Solidity, and Python. Expect to spend at least 6 months building this foundation before transitioning to blockchain-specific languages and frameworks.

With a background in computer science or programming, you may be able to transition to blockchain development within 6-12 months. The learning curve will be less steep if you have experience with languages like JavaScript or Python and understand basic CS concepts. You can spend 3-6 months getting proficient in blockchain-specific skills like Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric, Solidity, web3.js, etc.

No matter your background, here are some tips to become job-ready as a blockchain developer in 6-12 months:

• Commit to learning 30+ hours per week. The more time you can devote, the faster you will progress.
• Take online courses focused on blockchain development. Aim for certificates to showcase on your resume.
• Build real projects for your portfolio. Contribute to open source blockchain projects on GitHub.
• Network and find a mentor who can review your code and provide technical guidance.
• Consider a full-time, intensive blockchain bootcamp (3-6 months).
• Earn industry certifications like the Certified Blockchain Developer from Blockchain Council.

The most important elements are dedicating focused time to learning each week, building projects, and networking. With diligent self-study and some mentorship, you can become a job-ready blockchain developer within 6-12 months.

What Kind of Mindset Do You Need to Become a Blockchain Developer?

Digital technology continues to advance in the modern world. Users are now utilizing apps, wearables, and other technologies to track their behavior and health, so it’s not only the data centers using AI.

This has created a new type of job that can only be performed by developers, who are experts in the technology at its core. As businesses rush to implement blockchain technology into their operations, demand for blockchain developers has reached an all-time high. To start working as a blockchain developer immediately, you don’t need a degree in computer science or engineering; all you need to know about programming languages and how they interact.

The word “hacker” is typically used negatively when spoken aloud; no self-respecting company wants to work with hackers (except ethical hackers, but that’s a story for a different time). On the other hand, the hacker mindset encourages the growth of skilled Blockchain engineers. Hackers are more likely to react creatively than conventionally when faced with problems or hurdles.

A skilled Blockchain developer could also collaborate and work in a team. If you’re new to the field, the “blockchain developer” title might seem challenging, but it’s much simpler than you think. A common analogy is that the ideal Blockchain developer understands when to ask for help and when to keep working until they discover a solution.

How to become a Blockchain developer with no Coding Experience

Although entering the blockchain and learning to code can seem difficult, it is entirely achievable, even from scratch!Here are the essential steps we would recommend:

First, don’t try jumping right into blockchain-specific languages. Spend a few months learning general programming basics in Python or JavaScript. Coding is coding – you need that core foundation.

Next, start mastering the bread and butter of web development – HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Building web interfaces will be crucial for blockchain projects.

Once you have those basics down, begin learning Solidity and studying platforms like Ethereum and Hyperledger. Immerse yourself in the blockchain world! The tech-specifics will start coming together.

The most important element by far is building real projects. Start small and simple, but make sure you’re coding every day and applying those skills. Over time you’ll have impressive projects for your portfolio.

Don’t try to go it alone! Networking and finding mentorship is invaluable as a new developer. Surround yourself with other coders and ask questions.

Lastly, be patient with yourself! Give it 6-12 months of consistent work. We promise with dedication and passion, you absolutely can become a blockchain developer within a year.

What are the Benefits of Becoming a Blockchain Developer?

There are many powerful advantages to becoming a blockchain developer.

• It enables developers to create scalable and secure applications: To assist businesses in achieving their objectives, blockchain enables developers to create scalable and secure applications.

• It provides access to an extremely innovative and exciting field: Blockchain technology is still in its early phases, with numerous new developments occurring daily. You will lead this advancement as a blockchain developer!

• Career variety: Unlike most professions, blockchain development gives convenience and chance across various industries and sectors. A career as a blockchain developer might be ideal for you if you enjoy working independently and finding solutions to challenging issues.

• Take command of your data: With exception of traditional databases, developers have complete control over how data is stored. Everything is transparently tracked and publicly accessible on a blockchain database.

• Control over your data:Unlike traditional databases, developers have complete control over how information is stored. Everything on a blockchain database is public and transparently tracked.

• Create unique smart contracts: No other platform is as capable of handling complex transactions as blockchain technology could be for developers to create unique smart contracts.

• Countless industries: Blockchain technology has uses in a wide range of sectors, including finance and healthcare. As a developer, you will have the chance to work on a variety of projects and gain experience in various industries.

Career Options for a blockchain developer

Blockchain experts are in high demand. It is looking for people who can explore this new technology for its diverse applications. The following is a list of blockchain developer job opportunities.

Blockchain solution architect

Blockchain architects distribute, create, and link different blockchain solution components. They work with various departments, including IT operations, network administrators, UX designers, and developers. Blockchain developers must be proficient in React, Python, HTML, CSS, Generic SQL, and Node. A solid understanding of data science, DevOps, and cryptography is also required.

Blockchain project managers

Blockchain project managers are in charge of establishing a connection between a company and blockchain experts. They set up guidelines for effective communication and technical standards for their staff. These blockchain experts require the same project management skills as any other team member.

Blockchain administrators

These blockchain professionals create, develop, and operate blockchain infrastructure. Their main goal is to use the skills of different blockchain teams to evaluate the effectiveness of the tools and services used on a blockchain system. The Bitcoin protocol, Linux, UNIX, and high-level programming languages are among their areas of expertise.

Blockchain UX designers

Blockchain UX designers create unique, clear, user-friendly interfaces to keep users invested. These blockchain experts must be creative, articulate, and skilled in blockchain technology.

Blockchain consultants

Consultants in the blockchain industry develop strategies, create solutions, and provide technical advice. These experts need a thorough understanding of blockchain technologies because they work in various blockchain-related fields.

In addition to technical experts, blockchain consultants can also be advisors whose duties include drafting legal agreements, advising businesses on the format of cryptocurrency offerings, and supervising business contracts. Legal advisors in blockchain must be proficient in the financial regulations of their respective countries and have a firm understanding of smart contracts.

Blockchain analysts

There are two types of blockchain analysts: business analysts and risk analysts.

Business analysts identify potential areas for improvement and develop successful business strategies and processes.

On the other hand, risk analysts assess potential risks and create practical defenses against them. These experts require in-depth familiarity with blockchain technology and expertise in related technical fields.

Aside from these experts, the blockchain workplace attracts others, such as blockchain security, community managers, and junior developers. The majority of junior developers are interns, assistants, and beginning programmers. These professionals design user interfaces and other front-end developments in addition to application programming interfaces (APIs) for blockchain databases.

Blockchain engineers

Blockchain engineers are responsible for developing applications that accurately represent their companies’ technological capabilities. These blockchain experts are skilled in the economics of blockchain engineering and constantly learn new things. They are also familiar with the concepts of supply and demand.

Companies that are hiring Blockchain developers

Even though there are more job openings for blockchain than for other IT careers, the overall numbers are still low. However, the number of job postings mentioning bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain has grown consistently over the past three years, with a sharp rise in the last two months. 

While initial interest in blockchain was sparked by cryptocurrencies and initial coin offerings (ICOs), businesses are now leading the rise in the knowledge of decentralized apps. Developers and others have programs that teach the necessary blockchain skills as the demand for blockchain workers has grown. For instance, after introducing an online course on cryptocurrencies and business blockchain networks, the University of California, Berkeley, received hundreds of registrations.

To get a blockchain developer job, IBM’s Lowry recommends starting with a broad understanding of the ecosystem and the variety of blockchain protocols. Then learn how to create a business-grade blockchain using Hyperledger Fabric.

These resources—Hyperledger, Coursera, and IBM developerWorks—allow you to develop your engineering skills.

The top companies with more job postings for positions related to blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and bitcoin are:

1. IBM
2. EY
3. Cisco
4. Deloitte
5. Conduent
6. KPMG
7. JP Morgan Chase
8. Microsoft
9. Accenture
10. ConsenSys

Blockchain developer salary

Based on the Blockchain Academy 2022 Global Blockchain Jobs and Employment Report, people working in the blockchain industry typically make more money than people in comparable roles in other industries. According to the same source, a blockchain developer makes an average of $136,000 annually in the US, $87,500 in Asia, and $73,300 in Europe. Blockchain developers working remotely make, on average, $123,750.

Blockchain development was also the fastest-growing job of the year, with a 33-fold increase, according to LinkedIn Job Report 2020. LinkedIn noted that job postings about cryptocurrencies increased by almost 400% in 2021.

It’s important to note that salaries for blockchain developers vary by region and depend on various elements, including the level of experience, skill set, job location, and role.

Blockchain Developer Pay, Based on Location

As a result, the figures shown are subject to change, and blockchain developer pay ranges from newbies and fresh developers to experienced and progressed blockchain developers.

Can you Become a Blockchain Developer Without a Degree?

Pursuing a career in blockchain development without a college degree is absolutely achievable. Many organizations prefer to value practical experience over formal credentials in this quickly changing industry over verifiable coding skills.

According to recent job market data, the vast majority of open blockchain developer roles do not list a degree as a requirement. Out of over 1,700 current openings compiled worldwide, roughly 85% indicated no degree was necessary to apply.

Specific statistics by region show a similar pattern:

• In the EU, over 86% of blockchain developer jobs are open to non-degree holders.

• In the US, over 76% do not require a degree, though some preference exists.

• The UK also shows over 85% are degree-agnostic.

• Even in India, nearly 40% are attainable without a university credential.

The numbers speak for themselves – blockchain expertise can clearly be gained through alternative pathways like specialized coding camps, self-directed learning, and vocational training. While a degree may still carry some weight, it does not appear to be a mandatory prerequisite.

By focusing on acquiring in-demand technical skills, gaining hands-on experience through projects and freelancing, and showcasing abilities via certifications and a robust portfolio, those without degrees can clearly transition into this exciting field. Passion and dedication to learning are what truly count.

Conclusion

Thus, this article explains how to become a blockchain developer without experience and how to get started in blockchain development. You must have a detailed understanding of the underlying technology to work as a blockchain developer. You’ll also need to be an expert programmer with a firm understanding of cryptography. Experience in creating distributed systems would also be advantageous.

To work as a blockchain developer, one must understand computer science basics, data structures, and algorithms. Additionally, knowing distributed system development would be beneficial. With these abilities and backgrounds, one may be on their way toward becoming a blockchain developer.

FAQs