Blockchain is a revolutionary technology that has opened up a whole new field of development known as blockchain development. This means that it has opened up a multitude of opportunities for tech enthusiasts. Despite the numerous jobs available, there are many who need clarification about what direction to pursue becoming a blockchain engineer. Therefore I set out to write this piece to guide fellow blockchain enthusiasts to the world of blockchain development.
Who is a Blockchain Developer ?
In the last couple of years, I’ve been asked on several occasions, “who exactly is a blockchain developer and what kind of development is he concerned with?” So, it could be confused with the many kinds of developers available within the market. Therefore, let’s get rid of this confusion by clearly defining blockchain developers…
Developer who is responsible for creating and improving blockchain protocols, making the structure of blockchain systems creating smart contracts and web applications using blockchain technology is often referred to as blockchain developers.
You can also check out this video from Blockchain Developer in which top 10 blockchain development companies provide describe the subjects in a thorough manner, with illustrations.
Any developer who participates in the creation of blockchain technology may be classified as a blockchain developer. Blockchain developers can now be divided into two distinct categories. Let’s now examine both these kinds.
Types of Blockchain Developers
As I mentioned that there are two kinds of blockchain developers. They are:
- Core Blockchain Developers
- Blockchain Software Developers
The core blockchain developer is primarily responsible for the design of the architecture of the blockchain system, the way its protocols should be developed, and the creation of the consensus protocols, as well as other high-level decision-making and advancements related to blockchain technology. Blockchain software developers, however, employ the framework and protocols created by Core Blockchain developers to build decentralized software that runs on blockchain technology.
We now know the different types that blockchain programmers can play. I’ll inform you about their specific functions in the field.
Roles of a Blockchain Developer
Let’s start by discussing the functions of a critical blockchain developer.
Core Blockchain Developer
As we have discussed, a critical blockchain developer is usually engaged in designing, developing, and securing the blockchain system. Their roles comprise the following:
- Blockchain protocols are designed to be a part of the design process.
- The design of consensus protocols and security protocols for the network
- The design and architecture
- Control for the whole network
Blockchain Software Developer
Blockchain Software Developers have a distinct set of responsibilities. They need something to deal with consensus design or the design that the blockchain system uses. Like an average web developer utilizes the structure and protocols established by a web architect to create websites, blockchain software developers develop applications that are decentralized or Dappsusing blockchain technology. Their responsibilities include:
- Development of Smart Contracts
- Design of interactive front-ends for Dapps
- Backend development related to the Blockchain
- Control of all the stacks that run their Dapps
Now that I’m educated you about the various kinds of blockchain developers and their roles in each, I’ll tell you about the technical expertise and the skills you need to begin your career as a blockchain developer.
Technical Skills Required to Become a Blockchain Developer
When we speak of blockchain developers, the combination of these skills is expected of the person. Let’s look at each one of them.
Blockchain Architecture
A blockchain developer must have a thorough understanding of blockchain technology, its operation, and its structure. Concepts such as cryptocurrency-based hash functions, consensus, distributed ledger technology, and more should be on the tip of one’s fingers. The most effective way to learn about Blockchain is to read through the whitepaper on the bitcoin blockchain and then go through the entire whitepaper can be tedious, and having a few guidance aids in learning. Therefore, you can join Edureka’s Blockchain course.
Data Structures
Furthermore, a deep understanding and a practical understanding of data structure are essential in order to be a Blockchain developer. Blockchain developers are constantly exploring and tweaking existing data structures, such as Merkle trees and so on, to satisfy their individual requirements for the network. Blockchain utilizes a variety of data structures with sophisticated cryptography to create an immutable and secure system. Blockchain knowledge, with no understanding of data structure, could be considered insufficient.
Cryptography
As I’ve mentioned previously, Blockchain is a conjunction of data structures and advanced cryptography. Hence, it’s only natural that an understanding of cryptography is necessary to be a blockchain developer. There are a lot of cryptographic strategies like hash functions such as SHA256 and KECCAK256 that can be used in Blockchain in addition to an asynchronous cryptography method for creating digital signatures. You need to learn how they work to become a blockchain engineer.
Smart Contract Development
Smart Contracts have become a significant issue since the launch of Ethereum. Each Blockchain is trying to integrate innovative contract capabilities to ensure that the business logic can be implemented on the Blockchain. Developers who wish to make it into the field of Blockchain should be aware of the development of smart contracts. This usually involves learning the specific language for networks like Solidity, Viper, Chaincode, and more.
Web-Development
Web development is an essential element of a blockchain developer. If someone starts their job as an engineer in the business, the majority of them will be employed to assist with the design and development of fundamental decentralized applications. This means that you have to understand the basics of backend and front-end development. This involves things like developing interactive graphical GUIs for Dapps’ users, the handling APIs, requests handling, etc.
After I’ve explained to you all about the abilities required to be blockchain developers, Let’s see firms that are advancing blockchain developers.
Companies Hiring Blockchain Developers
If you are convinced that you’re able to be a blockchain developer, It’s an excellent time to consider it as opportunities are growing. For each five blockchain developer-related jobs within the sector, there’s just one suitable blockchain developer. Many Fortune 500 companies like IBM, Accenture, and Capgemini are looking for the right blockchain developers.
There is a myriad of chances for Blockchain developers to work in this day and age, but they offer lucrative salaries with their jobs. A blockchain developer who is a core player, on average, earns $100,000 per year, and blockchain software developers make the equivalent of $70,000 per year.
Blockchain Certification Training Course
This was all you needed to know about becoming a blockchain developer. The next step is to master the above-mentioned skills for a career in blockchain development.
If you’re looking to learn how to understand Blockchain better and develop employment in blockchain technology, then take a look at our Blockchain Course, which includes live instruction by an instructor and real-life projects. This course will assist you in comprehending the Hyperledger Fabric and assist you in mastering the matter.